Once again I have been listening to a few people, who have been drawn into anger and resentments. I can never forget about being in the same place a long time ago. But the gifts I had been given by my old sponsor, his wife, and a number of old timers, plus the BB and the 12&12, helped me to turn around and begin to change. And to never forget the Serenity Prayer, as well as my Higher Power.
In each case, I have shared my story in one way or another to help them to step back and stop being torn by their feelings toward the other people. I think in a couple of cases they are definitely working on changes. And others I know are the opening of how I and others were back a time ago.
One of the aids I was given I have never forgotten. And that is the Second Step, which opened the door to the spiritual way of life, and, of course, also my Higher Power.
Learning that I had to start to change my thoughts and my feelings about others. Didn’t happen overnight. Time takes time. A day at a time is one thing, but the other is how long changes actually take. Not a week, not a month, but often time a lot of years.
During these times, as we go through the grit of changes, we can also be at least content, if not happy from time to time. At peace, and in gratitude to our Higher Power, and a lot of help we are receiving. Even able to reach out and help others, despite our running into trouble from time to time.
I could never give up, even though I was tempted to. I was still going through my rough moments, but listened to my sponsor and others and kept on trying to change. And over time, of course I did. I learned that I had to learn that time takes time. So I had to learn how to be willing in spite of my thoughts and feelings, as long as I was willing to keep on trying. I did, and it worked.
Anyway, this all made me stop and take the time to be able to have the patience and care for others in here. I know that was what all those old timers did for me. I am so grateful to my Higher Power, my sponsor, and all those old timers, plus a lot of current members, who have helped me. I need to say thanks within, and to always try to remember.