What a priviledge we have in this program. Imagine, being able to work with others. To help them into the program, with the hope that we can work with them to grow in this program and be able to stay sober. We can even find others in this program, who are already sober, but need our help to enlarge their spiritual programs. I sometimes have to stop and think what a great opportunity we each have.
I know that it has been my priviledge to talk to and listen to others, over the years, and give them a way to vent or to share the variety of problems which we all face. It doesn’t require me to give advice or solve their problems. That’s not what any of us are equipped to do. What I can do, is in the face of problems we have, to encourage them to take a look at what’s available to them via the steps. To point so many, who need it, to return their thinking back to the basics of this program, where they can find solace, a firm basis on which to stand, and spritual principles which, in the final analysis, can solve most things confronting us.
Everytime I’m approached, it ends up reinforcing and strengthening my program. Everytime I find myself inching a little further along this road. Each and every encounter makes me grateful that I have not had to go back to a drink in order to comfort me. The comfort is in the communion with others. It is far greater than anything any number of drinks ever did for me.
Listening is a gift I am able to offer to those in distress. Whether they are fresh off or drink or just need someone to be there for them. From trying to practice this art form, I have been given much in the way of learning. Patience for one. How much I lacked that virtue, when I came here, with virtually no hope of overcoming my impatience. Tolerance. I felt like I had been born intolerant. I was to learn from others this wasn’t so. Understanding. I thought I knew everything and consequently understood everything. How much I was taught by those who opened up to me and allowed me to learn.
And Charity? I never had any before. Others, who were so charitable to me, by allowing me to work with them, extended God’s grace through their actions, so that I could learn to give back.
We are told we must give what we have in order to keep it. But it is never a sacrifice. Instead it is a gift. I am rewarded, regardless of the outcome of my efforts. What a priviledge.
Just something on my mind this evening.