Letting go and letting God is a difficult little mantra to live by. But many who are in recovery have taught me that this simple prayer is the foundation of hope and strength in our lives. The key lies in this simple fact: When trouble comes our way, most of us grip tightly. Instead of loosening the grip and letting the trouble go, we tighten our hold and use all our strength to control the situation.

Of course, if trouble is pulling at us and we hold on tight, often trying to pull in the opposite direction, the pain and agony of the situation just increases. Before long, the pain is all we know; it becomes the norm. And if we're not careful, holding on tight becomes the only way we know how to live.    

If God is our hope and strength, shouldn't we trust God enough to let go? When we allow a little slack, aren't we creating space for the holy to invade and transform the situation? I think so. In fact I know so.

For when I trust in God, let go, and allow God's life and freedom to come my way, the troubles tend to fade. God becomes very present. And I start to live.