Yesterday, I embarked on my Step 11, and it unfolded in a rather unexpected yet beautifully serendipitous way. My sponsor had guests at his house, and my own home was occupied by my wife who was a little grumpy. This led us to convene in a local park, where we found a serene spot under a magnificent Acer tree. The tree overlooked herbaceous borders in full bloom, and a gentle, warm summer rain was falling all around us. For me, this setting was nothing short of perfect. It felt as though I was enveloped in the very essence of my Higher Power, which I believe resides in everything—in all growing things, in all creatures, and in all people.

This experience was a shining example of the principle of “letting go and letting God.” Had I allowed my mind to take control and try to manipulate the situation, it would have inevitably resulted in stress, disorder, and likely a very unpleasant experience. Instead, by surrendering to the moment and trusting in my Higher Power (and my sponsor), everything unfolded seamlessly.

I am profoundly grateful for my Higher Power’s guidance. It directs me at every step, leading me down the right path, preparing the way before me, and being there to support me when I falter. This trust and connection bring an immense sense of peace and affirmation that I am never alone, and that I am always being guided by a loving, omnipresent force.

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Perfect Eleven

Step Eleven, a perfect, twist of fate, 
not in my sponsor's den, nor my own troubled gate. 
But beneath the Acer's emerald embrace, 
A park our haven, a scene of grace.

Herbaceous borders, a riot of bloom, 
Kissed by light summer rain, softening the greenroom. 
No walls, no clutter, just sky and the breeze, 
A symphony composed by rustling leaves.

There, surrender bloomed, a sweet release, 
letting go of control, finding inner peace. 
No grip on the script, the path unfurled, 
Guided by whispers in a rain-washed world.

My Higher Power, a force so grand, 
In every blooming stem, in every creature of the land. 
Not a distant judge, but a presence that’s here, 
In the gentle rain, my future so clear.

Grateful whispers dance on the air, 
for trust and connection, a journey I share. 
No longer alone, but with a guiding light, 
that leads me onward, ever so bright.