Abstinence

A compulsive overeater can’t fully grasp and develop a spiritual way of life while bingeing, any more than an alcoholic can while still drinking... Now I needed to be open and receptive to the discipline in eating and in the other areas of my life which were suggested in OA. ~ Overeaters Anonymous, Second Edition (Kindle Locations 2444-2445, 2450-2451).

Just a bite isn't just a bite
but a wedge  between me and my rights,
my hope, my future, my recovery,
my sanity. Maybe a tiny wedge won't hurt
but then again how many single tiny wedges
have there been, will there be if that one bite
starts to drive the wedge?

I'm powerless, not just over apple fritters, Blizzards —
but over an extra carrot, just a plain mini-bagel,
a few extra ounces of the right stuff.
I'm powerless over what I put in my mouth
but I have a Power who can overcome,
who stands constant wanting me to accept that great gift,
abstinence.