Road Signs

Pointer photo by Sally Anne Thompson

          In an article for Outdoor Life, Colin Moore wrote, “For as long as anyone can remember, man has always fared better in his pursuit of game when aided by a canine.” As a result of this relationship, three primary types of bird dogs have developed: pointers, flushers, and retrievers. For skill in hunting upland birds such as pheasant, quail or grouse, most people prefer a pointer. This dog’s name comes from the use of its body when game is located. The dog freezes in place while holding the nose, back, and tail in a straight line. The canine becomes an arrow pointing the hunter to the target.
          After we complete and review our personal inventory with a mentor, we will need a type of compass like the pointer. Though we may now see our patterns, have a better understanding of our triggers and can identify our character flaws, we will require more than a list of ‘don’ts’ to make progress. If we find ourselves at a crossroads, we must know the direction that will take us toward what matters the most – recovery. Setting intentions can turn us toward positive actions, not as something to accomplish in the future, but as a choice to make in the present moment right where we stand. These road signs (slogans, spiritual principles and new approaches) can keep us from taking the well-worn, familiar road of old habits. 

For more information on intentions, see this post.