November 28: Looking Back on the Gathering

You spent time with family recently. How did you do, really?

Holidays and family visits are packed with moments. Some you’re proud of. You stayed sober. You let a comment slide. You hugged someone you’d been distant from. Others you’d rather forget. You snapped at someone. You got sarcastic. You left without saying goodbye. You spent the drive home stewing.

Step Eleven at night includes looking back on the day. That works for a big gathering too. Once things have settled, take a few minutes and walk back through it.

Psalm 19 closes with a prayer people have prayed for centuries. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, Lord, my rock and my redeemer. Two things: words and meditations. What came out of your mouth, and what went on in your head. Both matter to God.

So look at both. Where did your words build people up? Where did they cut? And what was going on inside? Resentment you didn’t say out loud but chewed on all afternoon? Fear about what people thought of you? Self-pity on the drive home? Gratitude you didn’t express?

Do this without shame. The point isn’t to give yourself a grade. It’s to see clearly so you can do two things. First, set right anything that needs it. A short text: “Sorry I was short with you. It was good to see you.” Second, learn for next time. What triggered you? What helped? What would you do differently?

And notice the good. Write it down. You’ll want to remember it before the next gathering. Maybe the walk outside really helped. Maybe having your own drink in hand worked. Maybe praying before the meal set the tone.

Then hand it to God. He’s your rock and your redeemer. He can redeem even the parts that went badly. Nothing is wasted with Him.

One thing today

Write down two moments from your recent family time: one you’re glad about and one you’d do differently. If you owe anyone a quick word, send it today.

A prayer

Lord, let my words and my thoughts please You. Show me where I got it right and where I didn’t. Help me set right what I can, and redeem the rest. You are my rock. Amen.

Evening reflection links Step Eleven with Step Ten.

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