I was reminded today by a friend of something my sponsor once said to a friend of mine. My sponsor asked him how he was doing. My friend said he was still breathing and sober. My sponsor responded by saying that the man was not responsible for either one of those.
I had to laugh. It always struck me funny. However I’ve always believed it to be the truth. For me anyhow.
Always I believe that my dependency on my higher power is ever present. I believe I wouldn’t be here otherwise. How much I need the God of my understanding in my life gets clearer everyday I live and stay sober.
Today I was talking to another member and found that we were talking about a higher power and His influence on our lives. I recalled for him a time years ago, when my first sponsor and I were on a 12th Step call. We were delayed and we stopped off at a friend’s house. We were sitting in his kitchen and talking. Then his wife interrupted and said to us, “Years ago would you have thought that on this morning we would all be sitting here talking about God?” That stopped us and we all had to admit that it was inconceivable.
All kinds of problems were brought up today, at the meeting and by my friend. Then something mentioned today came to mind. That God could and would, if He was sought. Heavy.
Then, lack of power that was our dilemma popped up in the conversation. And the answer? We needed a higher power to empower us. We needed to be restored to sanity. It didn’t say anything about me being in control. I needed something besides myself to not only help me stay sober, but to live a sober life. That was too clear to me, when I read those words.
Today I looked back and was able to see how my life was changed. Changed so much that I believe I’m not the man, who walked through these doors. And I believe that I’m sober in spite of myself and all my failings. As a result I live a happy and contented life I never thought possible before I came here.
Everyday I need to give thanks for all I have been given. I hear that from others many times over. That a grateful heart won’t drink again. Amen to that.