It never ceases to amaze me how important it is to be in contact with other alcoholics. Doesn’t matter whether it’s me contacting another or them contacting me. The flow of grace, at least for me, has been a two way street.
I always feel that I’m the beneficiary.
One thing I learned a long time ago was that I wasn’t here to argue. This was particularly true, when I was the one seeking counsel. I also learned that if someone sought my help that, if they wanted to argue, I was to drop them. We don’t need a contest of egos, I was taught by my sponsor. I need all the help I can get. It calls for ego deflation in depth. Not ego inflation.
I’ve also learned that AA is not a debating society. How it works is how it works. I learned that from my sponsor and from the instructions in the BB.
Nothing will more insure that I won’t take a drink than when I’m working with others. But that comes with cautions. If my ego is in the way and I believe that I can help anyone, I could be headed for trouble. I was told that I cannot get anyone sober nor can I get them drunk. I learned that there’s wrench for every nut in this program and I might not be it. I also have learned that I don’t have all the answers and referral to others might be just the ticket for someone seeking help.
I was reminded of all of this by several good friends. So, I thought I’d stop and think about what we talked about. It’s about staying sober. That always gets my attention and I’m grateful. I need all the help I get.