Bill W. reminds us in the BB, when we reach the eighth and ninth step, why we’re doing these steps. He tells us to remember that we had committed ourselves to go to any lengths for victory over alcohol. There’s no way I or others would think of making amends, except that
I, we, don’t want to drink again.
A friend of mine sent me a gallery of pictures from AA’s past. Bill and Lois, Dr.Bob, Jim, the third member of AA, Clarence S., Rowland H., Ebby T., a lot of landmarks and events, Sister Ignatia, and many more. I looked at these and was reminded of the great things these men and women brought about for the alcoholics and their families. One of the things I think about, when my mind is brought back to those early times, is how I and others are pledged to carry on their legacy, by the fact that we stay sober and continue to carry the message to others
Each day that I arise is another occassion to recommit myself to living sober. Each day that I do that, I receive the benefits promised us in the BB, and a whole lot more. I am able to witness the changes which come about in the lives of those around me. When I do, I am able to catch my reflection in these people. Not just in those, who are newly sober, but in the old timers I know. We change and continue to change or we fall back into oblivion or misery.
At some point along the line in our growth in this program, we begin to seek humility for its own sake, just like Bill pointed out to us. No longer is it forced on us by the pain of self seeking. It just happens as I find myself wanting to grow along spiritual lines. I have found it the easier softer way.
But the underlying motive in my life, the “why”, is still there. I don’t want to drink again.
Anyway, I was thinking about this today.