What a day. Just amazing what this program has done for people like myself. Who would have thought “way back then”, that I would still be sober? Not only that, but, as a result of being sober, I would still be here?
Today is the 38th anniversary of one of my best friends in here. That’s where my thoughts were, when I awoke this morning. How long we have known each other and our experiences in working this program. I couldn’t help but think of all the things that happened over the years. Twelfth Steps together. Sharing our experiences and our strength and hope with each other and another close friend in this program. The people we have sponsored. Our shared experiences with my sponsor and his wife and so many old timers we knew then.
But that was just part of the day. A young man in this program called me this morning and talked about his working the Steps, both the good and the imperfect. He was in another town doing service work. Imagine.
Then, I was shopping with my daughter and granddaughter, and this voice came from behind me in greeting. I turned and looked at the smiling face of another member I hadn’t seen in a while. And, what did we do? We talked about the good fortune both of us had in finding this program, living a sober life, and receiving all the benefits this program gives to us. We both expressed our gratitude for this way of life.
All this brought to mind the “chips” we receive on our anniversaries in sobriety. Unity, Recovery, and Service. That’s the way we have lived and what we do. We all have learned to put aside whatever issues we might have, other than alcohol and staying sober. and have lived in support of singleness of purpose to insure the continued life of this program. Not just for us, but all those, who will come after us.
And recovery, the spiritual solution, is the name of the way we live. Beginning with surrender to our being powerless over alcohol and finding something greater than ourselves, who can and will restore us to sanity, which is the spiritual awakening we all seek through these 12 Steps. The solution we all desperately needed.
And service? I was told that the highest office we can seek in this program is that of servant. It’s what we’re supposed to do on a daily basis in one way or another. From making coffee, going on 12th Step calls, acting as trusted servants, leading and sharing in meetings, attending meetings, sponsoring and helping those around us.
Just glancing over the above tells me that, one day at a time, I have a full life. Or should. A wonderful life. Just two emails I received today from my closest friends is a reminder of that. I can’t help but be filled with gratitude.