Thinking today, in a meeting, when a man was coming back, I found my mind going in a couple of directions. One was how it was, when I came into this program and sobriety. The other was how it is for me today in sobriety.
As far as how it was, I often have to wonder do these alcoholics ever listen to whatever is being said. Always try to watch them and look for at least a reaction one way or another. I know that it is exactly what I need to talk about. I can remember some of what was being said, when I came in. It was people telling me their stories of how they stopped drinking alcohol and how the program opened up for them.
I learned in here how important the Twelfth Step is for, not just the man being helped, but for those of us, who are carrying the message to them. Moreover for what was going on today, the Fifth Tradition, how we’re supposed to carry the message to the alcoholic who is suffering. I sometimes remember that the “long form” states that the primary purpose of the group is to be a spiritual entity. In other words, it may not just me carrying the message.
Somehow I have to remember why I am here. Like the final phrase in the Third Step prayer. That perhaps I might be the example, who can enable the suffering alcoholic, to perceive what is behind all of this. My Higher Power’s love, power, and way of life. I know that I’m not to think of that then, but along the way that we’re all carrying this example. At least hope that we are.
And at some point it came to me how I am doing today. I mean I have to remember why I am here. I’m here to stay sober a day at a time. And that’s because I’m reminded how I have been given so much in this program. First came the spiritual awakening, when I was freed from the power alcohol had over me. I always remember how hope opened the door for me. And that eventually gave me the faith I needed, which I found in the Second Step. And then all I have received through these Steps, which has led to the love so freely given to me, and which I have to remember to give to others like myself, who need it.
And all of this reminded me of the gratitude I need to give to my Higher Power and others in the program, who have helped me along the way. I know that it takes time to develop this thinking, but it always encourages me, when it comes to mind.