Today was a very interesting day, as far as this alcoholic goes. Ran into a tough “new” alcoholic, who reminded me of myself. Stopped and talked to him for a while. And later on he called me and we talked again. Great reminder for me of what I was like back when I came in. Made me grateful.
What a blessing for this alcoholic. I could hear much of myself in him. I only hope he can hang in a day at a time and grow in sobriety. Not easy, when we’re tied up in what made us so sick. I can only hope we may continue to talk and work our way through what was so difficult for me back then.
I can remember that I was so mentally and emotionally sick, when I got sober. I knew nothing about AA or alcoholism. But I was given hope by a friend and that got me to go home and pray and turn my alcoholism over to my concept of God. And that got me free of alcohol. A week later I came into the program. Wasn’t a pleasant individual. I was so paranoid that I wouldn’t talk to anyone. But I got forced into finally selecting my old sponsor and he opened the door for me. He got me to face the fact that I really didn’t know anything and I was going to have to be quiet and listen.
Over time, and it took a long time, I have learned to change and do the Steps. Not at all easy for someone like me. Or a lot of others just like myself. However I did change and grew in sobriety and got away from my old way of life. Still sober and grateful for all I have been given. I hope this will happen to this new man. We’ll see. Right now I need to mind my own business and stay sober a day at a time. The Serenity Prayer. So I will step back and give thanks to my Higher Power, my old sponsor, and everyone else, who have helped me to grow in this program.