One of the things I have noted over the years are the acts of kindness I have witnessed.
I see this at almost every meeting I attend. People sitting next to another member or standing off to the side, sharing problems and listening for the response. Sometimes I’ve known that some were going through difficulties with the Steps and were being helped by someone with time and experience.
I always remembered the woman, who couldn’t stop drinking, but came to a member and asked them to read the 3rd Step prayer with her. They did and she never drank again.
I’ve thought about all this stuff over time and know in my heart that these acts of kindness are part of the 12th Step. Part of carrying the message to the alcoholic, who still suffers. Sharing the solution we all have and we all need.
I’m just grateful for a lot of long term sobriety being available to all of us, when we are in need. Like the BB says, nothing will more insure our sobriety than sharing with others.
It’s always a two way street I know. Helping someone else helps me. I was told that by my first sponsor and heard it over and over through the years.
It’s part of the spiritual solution. It’s part of being able to attain to the highest office in the program, that of servant being of service. Standing back and listening. A step toward humility.
But it is also an act of gratitude to return what was so freely given to someone like me.
Anyway I thought of this again today, when I observed some of this action. It’s what sobriety is all about. The love of one alcoholic for another. Part of our primary purpose.