Discord

The reading in For Today for this morning is about discord and its counterpart, peace.  Or as Publilius Syrus calls it, concord.

Discord gives a relish for concord - Publilius Syrus

Curiously, Publilius Syrus, the 1st Century Latin proverbist, also gave us the phrase, "A rolling stone gathers no moss." 

But what of concord?  It is not a word commonly used but rather an idea common sought, I think.  

Concord. s.v. agreement or harmony between people or groups. 

The reading states that fighting the disease of compulsive eating (indeed, any addiction, I expect) is fighting myself.  So I lay down my arms in OA.  I am open to the teaching of others.

For Today continues by noting how "being human, however, I still bring discord into my life:  I sometimes get angry over my own and others' mistakes; I argue over minor matters as though my life depended upon it; I eat too much and hate myself for it."

Publilius Syrus has an apt proverb for that too:

"An angry man is again angry with himself when he returns to reason."

 So I reflect on my affinity for discord - creating it, being curious by it, observing it in others with disdain but also fascination.  And I pray for more peace, more concord, more connection in my interactions with others.  I look at my progress so far and I want more progress.  I dare to keep trying to grow and OA is a place where I have found some concord.

Thanks, Publilius Syrus, for reminding me today that "valour grows by daring, fear by holding back."

Blessed be.