One of the things I learned in here from my sponsor and old timers was how to be able to overcome the negative and live in the positive. How to do that? They taught me by example. And that example was demonstrated when they were working with me and others like me.
I had come in here loaded down with all kinds of negative thinking and actions. Usually driven by my anger and resentments. Not something I had really thought about until it was revealed to me by those, who were not afraid to cut me down to size. Exactly what I needed.
How often I have gone back and been able to praise those old timers, who knew exactly how to deflate my ego in depth. I have been grateful. It’s just what I needed to help get me out of my own way and help me to learn to do the right things in here.
And that’s when I became open to try to learn how to practice that Twelfth Step and being able to carry the message to others like myself who need help to begin to get and stay sober. Not just by words, but also by example, like I was given.
But it also goes further than that. It’s also working with others who want help. And I always have to step back and remember how that helped me to grow along spiritual lines and stay sober. Doing this kind of work in here has lifted me out of trouble I felt myself in many times. That’s because, like I learned, I have been able to put my own ego aside and reach out and share with others, who need help.
For me it is the practice of compassion for others. Part of the Prayer of St. Francis, which is in the 12&12. I have found that worth taking time to read and say often in this program. Much like Bill W. took the time to point out to others like myself. Makes me grateful, because, when I stop to think about it, I often end up after doing this finding myself filled with peace and gratitude.
Anyway, I not only have had these experiences frequently and feel blessed, but I have had others tell me how much they have been able to take care of themselves, as a result. Just another reminder of why we all are here. To stay sober a day at a time.