Upon Arising: A New Day, A New Choice

 

Each morning, I am given a gift—a fresh start, a clean slate, an opportunity to shape the day ahead. As I awaken, I am reminded of the words from the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous: 

  "On awakening let us think about the twenty-four hours ahead. We consider our plans for the day. Before we begin, we ask God to direct our thinking, especially asking that it be divorced from self-pity, dishonest or self-seeking motives." — AA Big Book, p. 86 (Step 11) 

  With this wisdom in mind, I recognize that I have a choice: evolve or repeat. Do I embrace growth, stepping forward into new possibilities, or do I fall into the familiar patterns of yesterday? Knowing that insanity is defined as “doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results,” I choose evolution. 

  The image of a plant comes to mind—a tender sprout reaching for the sun, unfolding with potential. This thought is echoed in the words of Buddha: "Every morning we are born again. What we do today is what matters most." 

And reinforced by the wisdom of Marcus Aurelius: "When you arise in the morning, think of what a privilege it is to be alive, to think, to enjoy, to love." 

With this perspective, my day begins on a spiritual foundation. I step forward with gratitude, remembering the sacred words: "This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." — Psalm 118:24 

"The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." — Lamentations 3:22-23 

As my feet touch the floor, I reaffirm my faith in Christ. I trust that no matter what challenges come my way, He will guide me. 

  "When you have faith in Christ, you believe in the power of His Atonement. You trust in His ability to make you whole, to help you overcome your weaknesses, to help you deal with your challenges.” — Russell M. Nelson 

  "No matter how dark our days may seem, if we trust in the Lord, the dawn will break and joy will come." — Jeffrey R. Holland 

And so, I step into the day—not with fear, but with faith. Not with regret, but with renewal. Each morning is an invitation to grow, to trust, and to embrace the divine mercies that await me. Today, I choose to evolve. 

Good Morning