Having troubles? Negative thinking? Feeling fragile? Looking for help? I’ve been there and through the directions and guidance of others, I have found an answer, which worked for me. What is it? It’s so simple that I almost missed it. Yet it is something which the BB tells us will insure us from taking a drink. It’s working with another alcoholic. Helping another alcoholic achieve sobriety.
I know we say that often, when we’re asked what our primary purpose is. To stay sober and help another alcoholic. Over the years, encouraged and directed by others, I have found a way out of so many situations by just putting my hand out and shaking the hand of a new man. It’s so simple.
In truth it’s one thing to think of helping someone else, but I am the one, who benefits from this kind of interaction with another. At first I didn’t want to do this. I hated going out on twelfth step calls. I also resented anyone calling me. I selfishly felt that it was interfering with my oh so valuable time. But, over time I have learned the benefits I receive from getting out of myself and trying to give to another.
The first benefit is it adds to my sobriety. It’s a true defense against that next drink. I know from experience that I can see and hear myself in the one I’m talking to and listening to. The second benefit is that it gets me out of myself; out of my head. It gives me an immediate change in my attitude. It gives me a lift in my spirit and I walk away with positive thoughts.
I’m really not talking just about a new person. I’m often thinking about someone who has been in this program for some time. I get so many opportunities to talk and listen to people, who have slipped into suffering from either not going to meetings or just because they stopped talking to others. Just by offering an ear is a way to ease their pain. I know I’ve done that with others and they with me.
In any event, I was thinking about this today. I need to stay aware and open to the possibility of putting the twelfth step into action. Nothing will more insure sobriety and I definitely want to stay sober.