Yesterday, I spent a wonderful day with my family, starting off in the morning at the farm, where we tended to three horses. Not all of them are ours, by the way—we’re not that crazy! We all worked together to get the chores done quickly so that we could enjoy the beautiful weather later. Our plan was to spend the afternoon outdoors in the stunning gardens at Tatton Park.
Everything at the farm went smoothly, with each of us doing our part to make the work easier for everyone else. Once we finished and the horses were happily grazing in the field, we headed home for lunch. Just as we were about to eat, a big grey cloud appeared and poured down heavy rain. We all felt a bit disappointed, thinking our afternoon adventure in the garden might have to be cancelled. But I tried to keep everyone’s spirits up while we ate.
It felt like we had scheduled the weather with Mother Nature herself because, as soon as we finished lunch, the rain stopped, the clouds parted, and the sun came out, shining brightly. Without hesitation, we packed up and set off for Tatton Park.
Once we arrived at the gardens, the four of us were thrilled to be there. The flowers were so vibrant, and the grass and foliage were lush and green. My wife and I walked slowly side by side, taking in the breathtaking sights, the scents of the flowers and greenery, and the sounds of nature. Meanwhile, our children had fun playing on the immaculate lawns. It was truly an amazing experience.
Reflecting on the day, I realised just how much my life has changed. A year ago, before I found my way to the doors of AA, this experience would have been entirely different. I probably wouldn’t have even gone to the farm; I would have stayed home, using the opportunity to sneak in a few drinks before they returned. When the sky darkened and the rain started, I would have been the most negative one, and during our day out, my mind would have been preoccupied with where we could eat and, most importantly, where I could get a drink.
But yesterday was different. As we walked through the gardens, I was fully present, enjoying every moment with my wife and family. In the past, I would have been lost in my own thoughts, walking 12 or more steps ahead of everyone else, on my own, both physically and mentally.
This morning, during the sunrise meeting I attend, someone shared a thought that resonated with me: “Because of the AA 12 Steps, we are always 12 steps ahead of others who don’t have AA in their lives.” This struck me as true. After working with my sponsor and completing the first run of the 12 Steps, I’ve finished my training and am now applying it to my daily life and interactions—learning as I go.
Another person at the meeting shared a powerful reminder: “Each day is a daily reprieve.” Every morning when we wake up, the slate is reset. That 12-step head start we had is no longer there. We need to reconnect with our higher power, stick to our daily maintenance plan, and live in life. Only then do we gain the momentum to stay on the right path, stay true to ourselves, remain honest with those around us, and, ultimately, stay present.
A Day of Renewal
Yesterday, sun-kissed and serene,
A family day, a joyful scene.
At the farm, we tended steeds,
A peaceful rhythm, soothing needs.
Laughter echoed, work well done,
As horses grazed beneath the sun.
Tatton Park, a garden's grace,
Nature's beauty, a sweet embrace.
A year ago, a different sight,
Lost in darkness, shrouded night.
But now, reborn, a new-found light,
A journey toward the morning's might.
Through AA's steps, a path I've trod,
A daily reprieve, a gift from God.
Present in moments, heart aflame,
A life transformed, a different game.
