Posted by Q (198.64.206.92) on June 20, 2000 at 18:46:49:
In Reply to: But doesn't posted by Ted on June 20, 2000 at 18:29:47:
... "there but for ..." is certainly referenced in AA literature. I'm sure they got it from some other source.
It was explained to me that the phrase relates to gratitude more than pride. I say the phrase often and often I am simply grateful that I received some grace rather than getting what I may have deserved.
The grace came from something outside of me, a force I recognize collectively as God. The gratitude comes from knowing that I was (and am) powerless over many circumstances and not getting what I deserve.
None of this is pride or guilt, and has nothing to do with making judgments about others.