The Gifts of Step Eleven

I used to think the gift of recovery would be a perfect life. I thought if I did the steps right, I'd get the house, the happy marriage, and the obedient children. Step Eleven lists the real gifts: seeking, understanding, knowledge, power, His will. Notice that 'getting my way' isn't on the list.

These gifts are intangible but indestructible. Understanding why I act the way I do is worth more than a new car. The power to sit through a crisis without crumbling is worth more than a fake peace. Conscious contact means I am never alone again. When I value these spiritual gifts, I stop feeling shortchanged by life. I realize I have been given the keys to the kingdom—the kingdom inside me. The external stuff can come and go, but these gifts are mine to keep.

I can make a gratitude list today that focuses only on spiritual assets. Instead of 'I'm grateful for my house,' I will write 'I'm grateful for the capacity to forgive,' or 'I'm grateful for the ability to pause.' I will recognize my true wealth.