GaryOsberg.com

In 1976 I gave up drinking Old Grand Dad 80 proof for Lent. My other “drug of choice” was Heineken beer.  When dining out, my dessert selection was usually a dish of vanilla ice cream with a double shot of Old Grand Dad poured over it.  Easter Sunday in 1976 was not a good day, but I stayed “on the wagon”.  I do believe that I entered into the “dry drunk” stage of my recovery.  Not a lot of fun, especially for my family.

I gutted it out and in April of 1977 Marcia signed us up for a weekend retreat at the Cenacle Retreat House in Wayzata, Minnesota. Sister Ten-Tie Saniel and some of her fellow nuns presented “Effective Living” a seminar based on John Boyle’s “Omega Seminar”. With much struggle and dragging of my feet I managed to learn the following affirmations. Affirmations are stating future goals in the present tense.

For the last 44 years I start each day with a selection of readings and end by stating these six affirmations.  It has worked for me. 

The six basic affirmations are as follows:

1. I am loved; therefore, I like myself, unconditionally as I was created. (Repeat five times)

2.   I never devalue myself with destructive self-criticism. (Envision yourself doing something that you are very proud of)

3. I see love in others and have warm regard for all persons at all times. (Envision yourself doing something nice for somebody else)

4. I am easily able to relax and with every affirmation I become physically and mentally healthier. (Envision yourself doing something relaxing)

5. I am completely self-determined, inner directed by the spirit of love and allow others the same privilege. (Repeat five times)

6. I accept total responsibility for the consequences of my actions and reactions. (Repeat five times)

7. You can add up to 5 more goal specific affirmations.

“Great results cannot be achieved at once, and we must be satisfied in life as we walk, step by step.”  Samuel Smiles