Probably the one subject, which is always appropriate, is gratitude. Gratitude for all that we have been given by this program. Our sobriety and this sober way of life. Freedom from the bondage of alcohol.
That woman, who wrote the story in the BB, way back, entitled Freedom From Bondage, says it all. And what was that all about? Getting rid of resentments, the poison to chronic alcoholics like myself. The way, through the practice of these Steps, to peace of mind, a new happiness, and a new freedom. She illustrates that in what she wrote. The practice of spirituality through prayer.
Today, members illustrated their gratitude in what they said. I listened and enjoyed hearing those moments. Just as she said in what she wrote, so one of our members always says. I get everything I need in this program, and when I get what I need I find out it’s what I wanted all along. And, he adds, that if I were to get what I wanted it wouldn’t be good for me. The same for me.
Everyday is a day I need to practice gratitude. To be thankful for what I have. A new way of life, where I found a Higher Power, who can empower me to live life itself. Something I couldn’t do on my own.
How do I know that? That 1st Step showed me that. Not only was I powerless over alcohol, but my life was unmanageable. I desperately needed help, when I came in. And I found that help through members in this program, who were sober and understood what was wrong with me. Plus the 2nd Step. The introduction to a spiritual way of life. Something I lacked due to the spiritual malady I suffered from.
In here I learned that I needed to acquire some humility. To put my ego and pride, my self centered way of thinking and living to one side. To surrender to the program and the God of my Understanding. Not an easy task for someone like me. It took pain to wake me up and get me on the road. The pathway I need to follow each and every day.