Sometimes I have to back off and stand aside, when I hear from others. I have a long time friend in this program, whom I guess I have been sponsoring all this time. We’ve been separated geographically for so many years, but have been talking nevertheless.
I think I’ve known him from the beginning of his entrance into this program. Lots of years. His mother was a member. A dear woman, whom I cared about a lot. She was helpful to me and hopefully I was to her. But his story has been around this program in others for years. It’s a miracle. I’ve seen it before.
The reason I’m thinking about this is that in some ways it is a reflection of parts of so many of us. Our humanity talked about in the BB. As I have so often thought about this, I’m reminded of the miracles of this program. The number one is the restoration to sanity and the spiritual awakening. Both of them insure the neutrality our bodies are placed in as far as alcohol goes. Not cured but no longer in need of drinking alcohol. Amazing.
But like the Book states, the other sides of us are not affected. We’re still human and weak in many areas. Mentally and emotionally. Our defects and faults are still with us, no matter how much progress we seem to be making. And I know from experience just how I can often drift off and forget my primary purpose and find myself tripping over these defects and faults.
But then I know from experience that I have been able to pick myself up and dust myself off and get back on track. To renew myself spiritually and ask for the help I need from my Higher Power and others in here. I can share and equally receive the sharing of others. Reinforce myself through prayer, meditation, and meetings. To never forget my primary purpose, to stay sober a day at a time, even though I hit these bumps in here.
Anyway I was reminded of all this. My old friend told me of how he is now aware of what we all need to be. His spiritual awakening kept him safe and sober. Now he has totally awakened to this whole program. We both were so grateful and amazed at the miracle this program has given us all. Every time I think about this it almost takes my breath away. Still sober after all this time, one day at a time.
We both expressed our gratitude and were thankful for all we have been given, despite the bumps we have hit. And yet we both now realize that these things will always be there, because we’re human and not saints. Makes me stop and give thanks.