Issue 3 Mar-Apr 2014

Issue
no. 33
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Issue
No.
March/AprilPage
2014
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Recovery for California’s Inland Empire
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March/April 2014
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Issue
no. 3
Page 3
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T
BLESS IT OR BLOCK IT
he power of prayer is phenomenal. Many people shy away from the term “prayer” as it seems to symbolize
an act of religious ceremony rather than a spiritual connection to a Higher Power. If you think of prayer as
a conscious contact with the God of your understanding, it just takes practice to send “up” a communication
whether it be a request, a question, a desire, or a plea. It takes patience, willingness and open-mindedness to
wait and watch for the answers and the guidance. These are principles that are taught in recovery.
If you google different “types” of prayer there are nearly as many varieties as there are requestors. There are
prayers of Supplication (a petition for something), prayers of Intercession (to plead on behalf of another), prayers
of faith (rooted in confidence), prayers of agreement (specific unity on specific purpose), prayers of praise and
thanksgiving (gratitude and appreciation), prayers of contemplation (clear and undivided attention), prayers of
expiation (asking forgiveness), and the list goes on and on.
“Bless it or Block it” is a term I use for a style of prayer that I think encompasses a variety of prayer “types.” The
most important components of this connection with the Higher Power include a desire to fulfill your true purpose, faith that the purpose is achievable, gratitude for the open communication, and belief that the answers will
unfold.
It isn’t easy to see the answers sometimes. An open frame of mind and a willingness to surrender the outcome
are remedies to frustration and discontent as we strive to walk in alignment with our Higher Power.
I recently heard an anecdote at a local 12 step meeting that clearly illustrates how easy it is to hang on to our
“vision” of the outcome of our prayers. It went something like this:
There were two fellas sitting next to each other, by chance, at a (coffee) bar in Alaska. One gentleman was a
spiritual man and the other was agnostic. The spiritual man struck up a conversation by stating what a glorious
day it was, “the sun is shining, the sky is blue, the birds are singing… I can’t imagine a more perfect day.” The
agnostic man was aghast. In response, he growled, “why would you say such a thing? There is nothing good
about it.” The spiritual man turned to him and said, “Why would you say such a thing? Are you not grateful
for this glorious God-given day?” They agnostic said, “No. I don’t believe in God. I was stuck in Alaska for 3
weeks in a horrible blizzard and had lost my way. I got down on my knees and said, ‘God, if you exist please get
me out of this.’” The spiritual man said, “Then it must be a great day because here you sit having coffee with me.
God must have answered your prayer.” “No,” replied the agnostic, “Lucky for me, an Eskimo happened by the
next day and showed me the way out.”
Today, when I really want to know whether my desires are for personal gain and
gratification, or in alignment with my true purpose, I throw it “up” in the form
of, “God, I think I really want to (fill in the blank) – bless it or block it.” If it is
“blessed” then the doors seem to open easily and the next right step is revealed.
If it is “blocked” (or not in alignment with my highest good), then there is extreme resistance. The doors seem to shut rather abruptly. If I don’t notice right
away, they shut a little more harshly.
When the door closes, or the path is blocked, I try to remind myself that there
must be something better around the corner that I just can’t see – something
I didn’t think to want or don’t know I need. Easier said than done, but with
practice it sure makes taking action less scary and it certainly makes acceptance
more palatable.
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March/April 2014
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Inside This Issue
Features
Stuff
Metaphorically Speaking -7
Upcoming Events - 9
Bless It or Block It- 3
Newcomers Page -10
Now we’re getting somewhere - 5
Word Search -11
Famous Quotes about Faith - 6
Phillip Seymour Hoffman - 8
Contributions - 12
Gazette Humor -15
Horoscopes -17
Good Luck? Bad Luck? Who knows? - 13
Letter from the Editor -18
Inside look at 12 Step Meetings - 14
Special Messages -19
Recovery Resources Throughout
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Issue
no. 3
Page 5
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NOW WE’RE
GETTING SOMEWHERE
"The most important thing about getting somewhere is
starting right where we are." – Bruce Barton, American
author, advertising executive, and politician who served
in the U.S. Congress.
How often have we rebuked ourselves for our lack of
progress? Do we chastise ourselves because we haven’t
achieved this or that recovery goal sooner? The only
way we’re going to start seeing progress is to begin the
hard work of recovery. There’s no other way to look at
it. We have to begin before we can get anywhere. You
don’t arrive where you want to go unless you take that
first step.
What about those of us who are just beginning our
recovery journey? When we haven’t yet accomplished
anything measurable in our recovery, we can’t really
have anything to show for it, right? Actually, this is not
true and here’s why. When we are entering recovery, we
already have achieved a significant milestone. We have
made that first big decision: to stop our drinking and
drugging. None of us should discount the magnitude
of this accomplishment. Certainly, it didn’t come easy.
So, let’s say that we’re just now entering the 12-step
rooms; how do we start getting somewhere? We begin
at the beginning. We go to meetings, listen to what’s being said in the rooms. We put on our to-do list the task
of finding a sponsor. Once we find a sponsor, we try to
find a home group – a place where we feel comfortable.
With those two major things in place we can look back
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and see our progress see that
“we are getting somewhere”.
READY
Let's say that we've been
clean and sober for a year and
still don't have a job. 'Freaking out' won't get us anywhere.
We need to start making a plan.
“Today I'm going to go to every store in this mall and ask if
they're hiring.” If they are, I'm going to fill out an application. If there are any troubling questions on that
application, I'll call my sponsor or a fellow member for
ad-vice. If I do this every day, sooner or later I will get a
job. What if I have five years clean and sober and I hate
my job. I will make a resume (asking for help if I need
to), and I will start sending them out to everybody on
my day off. Sooner or later somebody will call. “Aha”,
we say. “Now I'm get-ting somewhere.”
SET
GO
The way we move forward in our lives is to make
a commitment to do something about our problem,
whatever that is at the time. Then we make a plan on
how we'll best be able to accomplish what we're looking
for. Then we plow ahead, forcing ourselves if we have
to, to take that first step and then keep moving. The
results are often out of our control – but if we do the
footwork...we know things will work out. They have so
far. - Bruce Huberman, 12 Step Gazette - Philly
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Page 6
March/April 2014
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Famous Quotes about
Faith
a Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase. - Martin Luthar King, Jr.
a Doubt is a pain too lonely to know that faith is his twin brother Khalil Gibran
a Faith is a knowledge within the heart, beyond the reach of proof -Khalil Gibran
a The keys to patience are acceptance and faith. Accept things as they
are, and look realistically at the world around you. Have faith in yourself and in the direction you have chosen - Ralph Marston
a Faith is to belief in what you do not see; the reward of this faith is to
see what you believe - Saint Augustine
a Faith is not belief without proof, but trust without reservation - D.
Elton Trueblood
a Keep the faith, don’t lose your perserverance and always trust your
gut instinct - Paula Abdul
Is the glass
Half Empty?
or
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Issue
no. 3
Page 7
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Metaphorically Speaking
Have you ever bit your tongue so hard that it bled? I’m not talking about a car accident, a fall, or a brawl… I’m
talking about just going about your business eating, talking, or walking when suddenly OUCH! It hurts! It
gets your attention!
This makes me wonder where the phrase “bite your tongue!” came from. The urban dictionary online says
that it’s the opposite of speaking your mind. It’s a reminder to think before speaking and to be mindful of the
impact of what you’re about to say.
So what about when you actually, physically, painfully bite your tongue? Maybe it’s God’s way of bringing your
attention to something you’re about to say – maybe something not-so-nice. Next time you bite your tongue,
take heed – you may be about to say something you’ll regret.
And that little bump that comes up in the impact zone – you know, the one that
you can’t stop playing with because it “hurts so good?” If you keep re-biting it
might be time to let it go -
BITE THIS
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Page 8
March/April 2014
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Some Thoughts on the Death of
Phillip Seymour Hoffman
One of Us...When many of us first heard the news
about the overdose death of the popular actor Phillip
Seymour Hoffman, we got that familiar feeling – another one of us had gotten carried away. He went over
that line between getting really high and dying – many
of us have personally danced on that razor sharp edge
between life and death.
It was all over the news in much the same way that
when one of us succumbs to this fate it runs at a
frenetic speed all through our not so little grapevine.
Many people in Hollywood were shocked – especially
when they heard that he had 23 years clean – had gotten sober at a young age and stayed that way. Many
of us were not so shocked. We know how patient this
disease can be. That was one reason we thought it
would be helpful to say a little something about his
death – for, it may be old news, but the lesson is fresh.
Looking at his pictures, reading about his life in sobriety, hearing about his recent attempts at plugging back
in, we thought he reminded us of ourselves – not a big
celebrity going hog wild on drugs. For example even
the way he looked; chunky, freckled and common looking. No big movie star looks. Even the way he talked;
mumbling and quiet – one of us. So, even though we
all probably heard a little too much of an outpouring of
sympathy for this famous addict as opposed to what
we hear when one of us locals die, it seemed like he
was closer to us.
Some people who knew him in recovery said he was
always talking to young people and peers about addiction and recovery. Many people who knew him said
how accessible he was in the neighborhood where he
lived. There were even reports that he did more talking
and socializing at the gym he belonged to then actual
working out (Ed. Note – I loved that one).
So let’s ignore all
that Hollywood
Hoopla… – I don’t
think he would
have liked it – and
let’s say goodbye
and rest in peace
to one of us –
and “but for the
grace of God go
I”. (Bruce Huberman, 12 Step
Gazette - Philly)
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Issue
no. 3
Page 9
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Date Event Information More Info
TestingTestingTestingTesting
TestingTesting
Upcoming Events
For More, Go to: www.eietoday.org (NA) or www.aa.org (AA)
Solution on Page 13
Spot the 10 differences in these pictures
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Page 10
March/April 2014
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The 12 Step Gazette’s
Newcomer’s Page
90 Meetings in 90 Days
It is suggested that newcomers to AA or NA try to attend
90 meetings in 90 days (at least one meeting per day – not
3 meetings one day, and 2 days “off ”). Here are some of the
benefits and the reasons why we suggest this.
P The early weeks of recovery are when people are most
likely to relapse. By attending a meeting every day it can
help us stay committed to sobriety and keep us focused
on our recovery. The risk of relapse never completely goes
away, but things can be particularly precarious during the
early phase of recovery. This means that we will benefit from
plenty of support during this transition period into sobriety
when we are most vulnerable.
P When we quit drinking and drugging we will suddenly
have a great deal of time on our hands (or in our heads).
Going to a meeting every day will help us fill this time.
Those of us who relapse after a period of sobriety will
often mention boredom as an excuse. When we were ‘out
there’, we spent most of our day thinking about, obtaining,
consuming, or getting over the effects of our drug of choice.
It can take a few months before people in recovery discover meaningful things to do with our time. This is because
prior to this we may have had little interest in anything that
didn’t involve alcohol and drugs. 90 meetings in 90 days will
provide us with a productive use of our time. By going to a
meeting every day we will have something to do so this will
mean less risk of boredom.
P This intensive immersion into the program will give us
the opportunity to learn about how the 12 Steps work. It
will help us start to see how this new life “works”.
P It will help to ensure that we have plenty of support
during the early days of our recovery.
P Total dedication to the program at the beginning also
ensures that the program becomes a priority.
P Walking away from our addiction usually means leaving
behind friends who are still drinking or using drugs. By
attending a meeting every day we will be able to build a new
support network. Socializing is an important element of
regular AA and NA attendance. It is common for people to
go for coffee or something to eat after the meeting. We can
learn to develop a new social life as a result of making a lot
of meetings. Loneliness can be a common feeling for many
newcomers. We may not know anybody in the program and
we likely feel very isolated. We begin to want to have some
new people in our lives. Unfortunately new friends are not
going to come and find us; it will usually be necessary for us
to do the legwork. Going to meetings is one way to do this.
P Committing to 90 meetings in 90 days and keeping this
commitment can also be a good boost for self-esteem. Most
of us have a long history of broken promises and resolutions
so actually keeping to a commitment can be good for our
confidence.
P This type of commitment to the program also shows us
that we are really willing to change our lives. This willingness is the key to success in sobriety/recovery.
Being realistic, we may not be able to make a meeting
every single day for the first three months. But if we just aim
for a meeting every day, we’ll be well on our way to a second
chance at life.
Newcomer’s Checklist
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Don’t Take That First Drink or Drug
Make Plenty of Meetings
Call Sponsor
Hang out with AA/NA People
Focus on the Positive
Talk about your Feelings
Beware of People, Places, & Things
o
Take One Day at a Time
o Ask Higher Power for Help
o Stay out of “Your Head”
o Move a Muscle, Change a Thought
o Read the Literature
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Solution on Page 16
Issue
no. 3
Page 11
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Page 12
March/April 2014
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CONTRIBUTIONS FROM
GAZETTE READERS
ON PATIENCE & RECOVERY
by Billy K. - Moreno Valley
Since self-absorbed, self-centered, and selfishness
is at the core of “our” disease, the patience I’m willing
or able to show a new comer or any other member of
this fellowship is how much recovery I have. “Let me
explain” if I’m willing to have patience with myself as I
go through this thing called recovery, if I’m able to give
myself a break but I’m not willing to be just as patient
or more with another person, “I have missed the whole
meaning of recovery!” I am only as recovered as I treat
or act towards other people – “especially” my brothers
and sisters in recovery. Just for today I will pay attention to how I treat other people and if I’m not willing to
be just as patient with them as myself, “I am” just for
today, acting in my addiction.
Day by Day
by Paige B - Murrieta
Waiting for these days to pass
Finding ways to save my ass
They say sit down & earn your seat,
Get a commitment, even greet.
I know things happen as they may,
So I must learn to live
Day by Day.
THANK YOU
To You
By Anonymous
Right now,
Somebody is thinking of you & smiling.
Somebody is very proud of you.
Somebody has faith in you and Loves you.
Somebody wants you to be Happy.
Somebody hopes everything turns out alright.
Somebody is Celebrating your Successes.
Somebody wants to give you a hug.
Somebody knows you do the right thing...
… especially when nobody’s looking.
Somebody admires your strengths.
Someone believes you have much depth.
Somebody “Thanks God” for your recovery.
Somebody remembers… The Good ole Days!
Someone’s grateful that you loved with no
judging.
Somebody is sending Angels to protect you.
Somebody wishes you God Peace & Serenity.
Love,
Somebody
Send your stories, drawings, art and poetry to
The 12 Step Gazette, Karen@12StepGazette-IE.com
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Issue
no. 3
Page 13
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GOOD LUCK? BAD LUCK?
WHO KNOWS?
I can’t remember exactly when it happened, and I can’t say exactly why it was so profound to me at the time, but this old Chinese story has been around for many years
and is probably familiar to most people in recovery. Nonetheless I wanted to share it
in conjunction with the theme of this issue. -- may the message enlighten your journey and brighten your spirit (said in the most Confusious accent possible).
There is a Chinese story of a farmer who used
an old horse to till his fields. One day, the horse
escaped into the hills and when the farmer's
neighbors sympathized with the old man over
his bad luck, the farmer replied, "Bad luck? Good
luck? Who knows?"
A week later, the horse returned with a herd of
horses from the hills and this time the neighbors
congratulated the farmer on his good luck. His
reply was, "Good luck? Bad luck? Who knows?"
Then, when the farmer's son was attempting to
tame one of the wild horses, he fell off its back and
broke his leg. Everyone thought this very bad luck.
Not the farmer, whose only reaction was, "Bad
luck? Good luck? Who knows?"
Some weeks later, the army marched into the
village and conscripted every able-bodied youth
they found there. When they saw the farmer's son
with his broken leg, they let him off. Now was that
good luck or bad luck? Who knows?
aaaaaaaa
Everything that seems on the surface to be an
evil may be a good in disguise. And everything
that seems good on the surface may really be an
evil. So we are wise when we leave it to God to
decide what is good fortune and what misfortune,
and thank him that all things turn out for good
with those who love him.
Author Unknown
12 Step Gazette IE
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For More Information
Solution to Puzzle on Page 9.
1) Balloons with face have different hair 2) Purple, red, orange, green balloon
on top right was flipped 3)Bristol balloon colors are different 4) Colorful
small balloon is closer to blue and gray and black balloon 5) Colorful and
black balloon on the left has different colors 6) The two small colorful balloons in the middle switched positions (front and back) 7) Red balloon on
the far left is closer to the tree 8) Tree on the right is taller 9) The tent at the
bottom switched it’s colors 10) The couple on the bottom left moved
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Page 14
March/April 2014
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An Inside Look At
W
12 Step Meetings
hen any of us are first confronted with the fact that
we have a “problem”, one of the earliest questions
is, “Have you ever been to a meeting?” Another way
I’ve heard it is, “You need help – do you know anyone
who goes to those meetings!” The first thing they tell
you to do when you leave rehab is “Make a Meeting.”
So what goes on at these meetings that is so special?
People have so many questions about our “meetings”.
What is it like to be at one – do you have to stand up
and introduce yourself? Does everyone have to tell
their life story? Is it some kind of cult or weird religious
thing? If it’s not, then why are they always meeting in
churches? How is talking about drinking and drugging
going to help me? How often do I have to go? The list
goes on and on…
Here are some basic facts; first of all, if it was really weird at meetings hundreds of thousands of some
very ‘wild’ people wouldn’t be going, some-times up to
7 days a week, and have a great time doing it! There
must be some pretty cool dynamics going on. Secondly, it’s not like you have to stay there once you do go.
Thirdly, nobody forces you to do anything! Furthermore, many people have walked through the doors of
a 12 step program with religious issues from their past.
Knowing this, we do talk about a higher power or God
as you understand Him but even atheists are welcome.
As for the meetings being held at churches -not so they are held at a variety of places.
Some things, however, are fairly consistent no matter what meeting you go to. They call what we go to,
“Twelve Step Programs” so you most likely will see the
famous 12 Steps (and 12 Traditions) on the wall with
other slogans sometimes hung up there also. There is
usually that iconic chairperson’s table at the front with
various key tags, colored poker chips and other knickknacks given out to commemorate periods of ongoing
abstinence. Then there are always these standard folding chairs set up in all types of rows…usually depending
on what kind of room or type of meeting is held there.
{FYI - If you are familiar with AA’s Grapevine magazine,
they have a section every issue called, “If Walls Could
Talk” in which members from all over the world send in
pictures of their favorite meeting, often called a “home
group”. NA also has the same thing in their magazine
called “The NA Way”}.
The coolest part of any meeting has got to be the scene
outside. If someone is reading this who has never been
to a regular 12 step meeting (not in an institution), when
you first find the location and walk up or park your car
it is an interesting sight - animated people talking excitedly. Hand-shaking and hugging is often obvious (don’t
be afraid...it is not a “requirement”). The people seem
really happy to see each other, for the most part. For
somebody new, this can look quite intimidating. I’m sure
many people have seen this and said, “Oh God, am I
nervous!” Most of the time, the need to try something
to stop our downward spiral outweighs the fear of new
people - and newcomers ‘muster up’ the courage and
keep walking up to “the gathering”. Considering the
state of mind that many newcomers are in - still detoxing off their drugs of choice and trying to crawl out
of a painful “bottom”, it is indeed “Quite an act of courage!” Fortunately, we members who have been there
are acutely aware that our number one job is to make
newcomers feel comfortable.
So, let’s talk about the most important part of meetings…the people. We have some unique traits that are
well suited for making the atmosphere, conversations
and “therapy” at meetings as effective as it is. For starters, we have a great sense of humor. We are also fond
of laughing at ourselves which is a great tension reliever. Most of us are very comfortable in talking about our
personal lives – and this becomes contagious. It leads
to many practical discussions on what we can do about
our problems and how we can help each other. Some
of the best and most helpful sharing of experiences
and suggestions doesn’t even come during the actual
meeting itself but during the break halfway through or
hanging out before or after the meeting. To sum up all
of these group dynamics in one easy phrase, “Hour and
a half meetings are where we go to learn how to stay
clean and sober the other 22 ½ hours of the day and to
help each other to live life on life’s terms.” Our motto;
“we can do together what we can’t do alone.” (Bruce
Huberman, 12 Step Gazette - Philly)
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www.12StepGazette-IE.com
Issue
no. 3
Page 15
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Gazette Humor Page
Poking Fun at Ourselves
Clairvoyants Anonymous meeting is canceled due to unforeseen events v Last
week I was looking for a Paranoids Anonymous meeting but no-body would tell
me where they meet v How many alcoholics/addicts does it take to change a
light bulb? Just one -- he holds the light
bulb and the whole world revolves around
him v13th Step: 1st Step + 12th Step
-- “My life is unmanageable and I want
to share it with you” v Waffles were definitely created by a food addict. They're
like pancakes with syrup traps so you
RENT-A-SPONSOR
Are you tired of being told like it is?
Still Looking for that Easier, Softer
Way?
Had Enough of that Same Annoying
Direction?
can get a giant sugar rush vAfter years
of success in A.A. I began having issues
with gambling so my sponsor said, "Why
not try Gamblers Anonymous". Then I
couldn't stop eating - someone suggested
O.A. (Overeaters Anonymous). Finally, after I checked out a Sex and Love Addicts
Anonymous meeting, I had to stop - this
was crazy -I was working 48 STEPS! v
Did you hear there's a 12 step program
for families of people who talk too much?
It's called On-and-On-Anon!
STANDARD FEATURES INCLUDE:
!
NG
I
D
G
EA ITIN ES!
R
NO WR DLIN
NO EA
D
NO
•Listening to your sniveling without constant reference to program literature
•Co-signing your excuses and rationalizations
•Work only the steps you want, in the order you
choose
•Learn the secret of giving it away before you even
have it
•Why “walk the walk” when you can just “talk the
talk?”
•Remember, it’s better to look good than to feel good
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www.12StepGazette-IE.com
Page 16
March/April 2014
____________________________________________________________________________________
Solution to Word Search on Page 11
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www.12StepGazette-IE.com
Issue
no. 3
Page 17
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March/April
2014
by Dana B.
Aries (March 21 - April 19) - MARCH - Career & financial matters
are strong & settled after a scurry of activity & worries. A powerful
intuition for work brings the chance to turn losses into gains & opportunities to deal with past problems. Your sights are set high but
several circumstances help bring you back down to earth. APRIL
- Watch for impatience & possible poor judgment. Advancing your
personal interests is in store, but expect some delays & roadblocks.
With patience you’ll be able to move forward. Expect a whirlwind of
emotion & activity with a close partner.
Taurus (April 20 - May 20) - MARCH - Avoid new relationships
that seem to be inviting trouble. Shared finances can become tricky
to handle. Do what you can to straighten out debt, as well as ownership & joint money matters, before then. APRIL - You’re likely
to be more hesitant than usual as an unusual number of influences
are highlighting your privacy. Soul-searching is now necessary &
important decision making will need to wait. This will bring more
personal bravery & enjoyment. Feeling “under the weather” can be a
symptom of not wanting to face challenges.
Gemini (May 21 - June 20) - MARCH - Your attitude towards your
close ties is transforming in significant ways. Your goals are clearer
& motivation is easy to find. You may feel a desire to renovate your
home, but be careful that you don’t take on more than you can handle. Complications can arise that have you rethinking what you’ve
started. APRIL - Relationships with friends assume more importance in your life. Ups & downs are highly likely as well. Feelings
of being misunderstood are quite possible. This is just one of the
reasons relationships are so dramatic. Try not to take any kind of
communication for granted.
Cancer (June 21 - July 22) - MARCH - Work relationships may improve but avoid overloading your plate with responsibilities, as they
are likely to come back to haunt you. Any “crisis” occurring in your
work place at this time is simply clearing the way for better work
conditions. Be mindful of your financial dealings. The temptation to
borrow from the future can lead you down the wrong road. APRIL
- Your career begins to pick up pace while your home & family life
is vying for your attention. The balancing act you’re doing between
your personal & professional lives can reach a head. Patience may be
hard to come by but is critical for maximum success.
Leo (July 23 - August 22) - MARCH - Your charm may be considerable, but a simple flirtation may be misinterpreted as more than it is.
Watch that you don’t land yourself into unnecessarily complicated
situations. Ups & downs cone from the need to frequently discern
between fact & fancy. Finding a middle ground is the key. APRIL
- As adventurous as you might be feeling, you may find that responsibilities prevent you from scratching the itch to get away from it all.
You may experience some disagreements that can quickly blow out
of pro-portion. Financial affairs are in need of some review.
Virgo (August 23 - September 22) - MARCH - There is a certain level of uncertainty surrounding work & love matters. Keep a low profile & avoid jumping to conclusions until after energy levels increase
& indecisiveness no longer plagues you. As confident & energetic as
you may feel, avoid taking on too many new projects. Moderation &
focus are keys to success. APRIL - Others may seem unduly aggressive. It will be especially important for you to find time to relax &
rest rather than feel at the mercy of circumstances or other people.
Sorting out finances, especially debts, will be necessary now.
Libra (September 23 - October 22) - MARCH - Changes are in the
air for your personal relationships & you will thoroughly enjoy the
Horoscopes
increased clarity. After some months of not really knowing where
you stand in a friend-ship or partnership, matters become clearer
& the people in your life more straightforward. APRIL - A feeling
that your fate seems to lie in others’ hands can be frustrating. You’re
being reminded just how important it is to get your relationships
sorted out. If you feel that others are running over your feelings. Be
sure to stand your ground. Be clear about what you’re doing & why.
Pay attention to what you’re feeling & make necessary changes in
your life.
Scorpio (October 23 - November 21) - MARCH - Work & career
matters are starting to move forward for you. After months of delays, stalled plans, & perhaps lack of enthusiasm, you are starting to
regain confidence, passion & interest in your work. You can prepare
yourself for a busy & active professional life in the next few months.
APRIL - A new task keeps you busy. Challenges can arise due to
delays & misunderstood communications. You may need to work
with difficult personalities. You’re likely to be strongly motivated to
take on many projects that improve your health & daily routines. Be
careful not to take on more than you can handle.
Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21) - MARCH - After months
of confusing signals in the romance department, love becomes clearer & you are rebuilding your faith & confidence in people around
you. Travel & educational plans are beginning to show movement
forward. Home life is re-warding & supportive, especially since
you are giving back & taking the time to make family feel special.
APRIL - You are likely to feel exceptionally inspired creatively &
romantically but you can also experience some drama & emotional
ups & downs as you pursue your goals. You may be setting your expectations too high. Responsibilities to friends can cause overthinking being that emotionally you are in a different place.
Capricorn (December 22 - January 19) - MARCH - You are feeling
empowered & productive with energy to spare. Family & domestic
conditions improve, as do finances, especially money & property
shares with a partner. Much pleasure is derived from family & home
life, even if the pressures of work still call you. APRIL - Fabulous energy for spring cleaning is with you. Your larger focus is on your personal & home life. Now is the time to really take charge of domestic
matters. Challenges can arise if excess energy turns into restlessness
causing conflict with family.
Aquarius (January 20 - February 18) - MARCH - Your focus continues to be on finances, possessions, comfort & practical matters.
Pleasant financial surprises may be in store. Studies, communications & transportation matters are moving forward. After some
confusion, or lack of clarity in your love life, relationships begin to
regain momentum. APRIL - There is plenty to do in your “to do”
list. Succumbing to tension is quite possible. Relationships with relatives may present some problems. Delays, equipment breakdowns
& other transportation nuisances will require patience.
Pisces (February 19 - March 20) - MARCH - Others are paying
special attention to you & the feedback is good. You are beginning
to feel more confidence about your money making abilities & your
work. This confidence will continue to increase. You are getting into
a more practical routine that helps you to feel grounded & enthusiastic about the future. APRIL - Financial activity can be a big focus.
Facing up to recent excesses may be necessary. You are also highly
motivated to make money, & ideas are abundant. Beware of impulse
buys. Love matters are generally strong when others are seeking you
out
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www.12StepGazette-IE.com
Page 18
March/April 2014
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Letter from the Editor
The topic for this issue is an exercise in faith for me. It’s hard – but it’s simple. It’s scary
– but it’s rewarding. The biggest example of “bless it or block it” in my life today is this
magazine. I wanted to write, the opportunity showed up. I needed the money, and the
money showed up. I needed a job, and I got a labor of love! It’s crazy when I think too
hard about it. It’s miraculous when I think too hard about it. I really shouldn’t think so
hard sometimes.
The most recent example of this spiritual attention in my life is this very issue of the magazine. I was struggling with a major block in terms of getting my thoughts on the page. It was making me crazy (and I’m never actually “happy” with the final products!). I was ready to cry myself to sleep, give up on this crazy-expensive, sometimes overwhelming, I’m-in-way-over-my-head labor of love when I said a little prayer that went
something like this, “OK, I must be closed off to the message that needs to be delivered here… I’m stuck…
help?!?!” Then Tim, Alex (my son), and I went to a meeting. And it happened again (I say “again” because
it happens all the time). I heard what I needed to hear, saw who I needed to see, and felt what I needed to
feel – and all the pieces came together. I really wish it was always that easy. I suppose it is all dependent on
my willingness to let-go and let-God.
I’m really excited about reader contributions. I hope to see more.
Respectfully and Enthusiastically,
Karen VanDenBerg
Publisher/Editor
The 12 Step Gazette
Inland Empire Edition
Help Keep The Gazette FREE by
Supporting Our Sponsors!
____________________________________________________________________________________
www.12StepGazette-IE.com
Issue
no. 3
Page 19
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Birthdays
and
Other Special Messages
To have a birthday or a special message printed here
Call the Gazette at (760) 898-8354
Send an email to Karen@12StepGazette-IE.com
Thank you to the readers
contributing their personal
expressions to The Gazette
- it keeps our magazine
interesting and encourages
participation.
- Gazette Girl
Happy Birthday
Randy K.
March 17
7 Years Clean/Sober!
CONGRATULATIONS to anyone
clean and sober today
Happy Birthday Elizabeth
April 1 - 5 Years Clean/Sober!
IMPORTANT STUDY RESULTS!
People who have more birthdays tend to live longer!
and
People who stop having birthdays tend to stop living!
If you know someone who
would like to advertise in The
12 Step Gazette-IE
Please contact us at 760-898-8354
Advertising rates are posted at
www.12StepGazette-IE.com
Happy Birthday
HARRY S.
March 23
40 Years
Clean/Sober!
Thank you Danica -- I couldn’t have
requested a better daughter. Your
help has been priceless.
I love you. Mom
Happy Birthday Melanie
April 17-- 3 years Sober
Happy Birthday to anyone
celebrating another year of
recovery.
May your gifts be abundant
and your journey fulfilling!
Gazette Information
The next issue of The 12 Step Gazette- IE will be
coming in early May. Share the free copies with
your friends. The magazine is published every 2
months. Submit your stories, art, poetry, messages,
events, and suggestions ASAP for the May/June
2014 issue.
Thank you
____________________________________________________________________________________
www.12StepGazette-IE.com
Company Profile: Writers In Treatment, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization
Writers In Treatment annually produces:
• REEL Recovery Film Festivals
• Voice of Recovery Media Award
• Experience, Strength and Hope Award
• Chasing the Muse…Stone Cold Sober
• Addiction/Recovery eBulletin
Writers In Treatment’s REEL Recovery Film Festival has achieved
media coverage in the New York Post, Hollywood Reporter, Variety, Los
Angeles Times, Vancouver Weekly, SEVEN (Las Vegas weekly), Addiction
Pro, Counselor Magazine, thefix.com, Renew Magazine and every other
recovery publication.
Entering its sixth year, and now offering CEU’s in California, Writers
In Treatment’s REEL Recovery Film Festival has achieved national
recognition as the leading (only) producer of recovery film festivals. In
2014 the REEL Recovery Film Festival will be presented in:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Los Angeles
San Francisco
Sacramento
New York City
Las Vegas
Delray Beach
Nashville
University of North Texas
Vancouver BC
Toronto
REEL Recovery Film Festival could be called the “Sundance Film
Festival” of recovery. It is the only multi-city recovery event whose
primary agenda is entertaining, inspiring and educating the recovery
community (family, friends and treatment professionals) and whose
main message is TREATMENT WORKS.
5th Annual Experience Strength and Hope Award February 13, 2014
This year the recipient will be author and recovery icon, Carrie White
(Upper Cut). Previous recipients:
{
Experience
Strength and
Hope Award
{
Christopher Lawford
Lou Gossett Jr.
Buzz Aldrin
Duran Duran’s John Taylor
Chasing the Muse…Stone Cold Sober in Los Angeles and New
York, with San Francisco planned for April 2014.
Participants have included:
•
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•
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William Cope Moyers, moderator.
Kurt Sutter, creator Sons of Anarchy
Dan Fante, poet, author,
Michele Huneven, author
Katey Sagal, actress, songwriter, singer
David Carr, NYT journalist
Lawrence Block, award-winning author
Michael Winship, President WGAe
Susan Cheever, author
Laurie Dhue, news anchor
Mark Ebner, journalist, author
Malachy McCourt, author, actor, politician, singer!
Other notables who have graced our stages include:
www.reelrecoveryfilmfestival.org
•
•
•
•
Writers In Treatment’s Voice of Recovery Media Award was
given to RecoveryView.com (national), the 12-Step Gazette
(Philadelphia) and inRecovery Magazine (Arizona).
• Danny Trejo
• Ed Begley Jr.
• Bobcat Goldthwait
• Robert Downey Jr.
• Dr. Gabor Maté
• Ben Stiller
• Danny Huston
• Ione Skye
• Joanna Cassidy
• Tony Dennison
• Jack McGee
• Paul Williams
& numerous filmmakers and artists
Awards: Writers In Treatment has received the
following recognitions:
• Los Angeles’ Certificate of Congratulations from Mayor Antonio
Villaraigosa, 2011
• City of Los Angeles Certificate of Recognition, Councilman
Richard Alarcon, 2012
• Faces and Voices’ Friend of Recovery, 2013
• A New Path’s BRAVO Award, 2013
Licenses:
• California Foundation for Advancement of Addiction Professionals (Caadac)
• Board of Behavioral Sciences, LCSW, MFT, others. Both valid until 2015
Writers In Treatment
Writers In Treatment
P.O. BOX 1745
Studio City, CA 91614
818-762-0461
info@writersintreatment.org
www.writersintreatment.org
www.WritersInTreatment.org