Today brought up the reason we are here. The reason? To stay sober a day at a time. When a meeting is no longer doing what we’re supposed to do, why are we there?
Each group has but one primary purpose— to carry its message to the alcoholic who still suffers. And who’s that? The new person? I really don’t think so. Sometimes a long time sober alcoholic will come to meetings, suffering from something. I know I have and have talked to others, who told me the same thing. They had come, sat in the meeting and listened, and like myself, have found peace of mind and been restored to sanity.
The long form of that Tradition state that the group ought to be a spiritual entity, whose primary purpose is to carry the AA message to the alcoholic, who still suffers. And that tells me we should be focused not on comedy or personal problems, but the sincerity to help others like ourselves. Freely giving what was so freely given to us.
Once again, focused on why we are here. To stay sober a day at a time. Makes me grateful to attend meetings focused on the AA message. I can well remember back when I came in, we were there to listen to the messages of the Twelve Steps, led by an old timer. Someone with a few years in here, who knew what this was all about. And then to discuss what that Step has meant to each one of us. And, if we haven’t practiced these Steps, then to just listen to those who have.
Just thought I’d better put my thoughts down on this. Never want to forget what it was that helped to change me and allow me to stay sober. I need to express my gratitude for all that I have been given. The peace of mind, the serenity, a new happiness and a new freedom. And so much more. The restoration to sanity and a spiritual awakening.
Anyway just wanted to go back and remind myself and thank my Higher Power and all those old timers, my old sponsor, who not only helped me to focus on why I am here, but deflated my ego, which I found out was out of proportion. Too huge for someone like me. I need others to pull me back into focus. We all need that or risk going back to alcohol.