Couldn’t help but think today about a couple of things. It was the group’s “chip” day. People celebrating anniversaries. Evidence that this program really works. Sober people, demonstrating that they have stopped drinking alcohol and are living happy and joyous lives. That was their testimony today.
One of the things I was thinking about was the 5th Tradition. The purpose of the group to carry the message to the alcoholic, who still suffers. Well, there it was right in front of our faces. Celebrants, giving concrete evidence, that there is a solution.
Another thought was that the solution to our alcoholism is spiritual. Again the evidence that the spiritual life works. Not just for our problem with drinking, but our whole life. And the thought came that it begins with that 2nd Step, after our surrender to our helplessness to stop drinking on our own.
That last thought, not being able to stop on our own, brings up the results we were witnessing today. Everyone, who picked up a chip, has to know that the chip is not theirs alone. Nor the achievement of time in. It belongs to everyone in the rooms and everyone they met and who helped them reach this point in time. Each of us has to know that there was no way we could stop drinking and stay sober on our own.
Anyway, as the meeting went on, and those celebrating expressed their appreciation for what they had received, they all began talking about their gratitude for their being sober. And many of them did talk about the people, who went before them and helped them mightily in achieving their sobriety. A great reminder for me.
Just thinking and being grateful for what I have been given.