Someone once said that the alcoholic lives to talk, but also talks to live.
My thought on this is how true. If I want to stay sober. I know that I have a tendency so many of I know have, to talk. Sometimes it’s about anything. Then there are moments, when it’s all about the program. That’s one side of the person’s thoughts.
But then there are moments, when I better talk. To be open and let others know what’s going on with me. Sometimes it’s my 10th Step with someone I know. Sometimes it’s about a problem I have and need to get it cut in half, rather than keep it to myself and end up closeted with it in my head. Better to talk than not.
Of course there are the meetings. And I have never forgotten that old timer, who came to me and told me that I was to no longer stay silent. He said I had enough time in and it was more than time to share my experience, strength, and hope with others about how this program has worked in my life. I’ve tried to remember that and speak even when I don’t want to or don’t feel like it. It’s a matter of gratitude.
I guess what reminded me of this today was all the calls I have received and I have had to talk to a number of people. I think that’s what backed me off and made me sit down and think about the above statement.
There are moments in my life, when silence is the thing to do. To stay silent, not just with other people, but in moments, when I’m trying to practice my 11th Step. But also those moments, when I actually know that I’m overstepping my boundaries. Doesn’t always work, I regret to say, but I’ll keep on trying. Nothing’s perfect.
Anyway, just thinking about what helps me to stay sober.