No "Buts..." by Vince Jones

        Having taught spiritual principles for a significant portion of my life, today there is no more painful word to hear from a student than "but..." 

       It matters not whether the student has been on the path 10 weeks, 10 months or 10 years; this word is a nearly impenetrable barrier to progress.
     
          The new student will listen and then when an opportunity to speak presents its self they begin their comment with "yeah, but…" Which demonstrates their lack of willingness, they are still looking for loopholes, not convinced.

         The student who has been on the path for a time, faced with something uncomfortable attempts to make their case for avoidance with "yeah but, you don’t understand…"They acknowledge the problem but fear grips them, hoping to avoid an imagined punishment they filibuster. Guilty with an explanation your Honor, if you would just let me explain…

        Finally, those who have traveled the path for a significant period are attacked by but obliquely, in the quiet moments. Having persevered and done much work spiritually, Living on the Spiritual Basis, they “believe” but doubt has crept in. They are attempting to come to terms with some seeming inconsistency and are looking for answers, some action to take for specific relief. One of the most difficult spiritual lessons to take to heart is when to stop. When you have consulted with those whose spiritual counsel you value, have taken all the secular action indicated, have prayed and meditated on the difficulty or fear, stop, let God work. Be still and know that I am God.  Living on the Spiritual Basis does not mean we will always be inspired, engaged in non-stop action and activity. If truth is true, there are no buts.

       You have mixed all the right ingredients, in the correct proportions, placed them in a baking pan, now the cake needs to bake. While it bakes, leave the oven closed. Every time you open the door to see how things are progressing, you upset the balance. Let God do His work, just as the oven will do it’s once set. No action or activity is required by us, except patience. The cake batter has its job, the oven its task and neither requires our assistance. You have put together the ingredients for healing and placed them in His hands; give Him the time to cook. Good cake and faith require patience, neither have buts in them.


 - Vince Jones
Vince Jones lectures to Sober Living by the Sea's clients about recovery from addiction and the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous