One thing we can bank on, when we attend meetings, at least in my expereience, is that someone will be coming back or a newcomer will be attending meetings. I’ve been watching one of these newcomers of late. A well dressed man, who slipped in unnanounced. He just sat in the back and didn’t speak to anyone, but paid close attention thoughout the entire meeting. He turned and watched each speaker and when a step was mentioned he would look up on the wall and squint, as he obviously read what the step referred to said.
After his second meeting, in which he was called on and announced that he was there to listen, I went up to him and introduced myself. He told me his first name and I introduced him to a couple of the men. Then he left. Today he was called on again and this time he said his name and said he was an alcoholic. I knew it was a big moment for him and could see that in his face.
What I was thinking about was a safety net. Why? Because I could identify with what he is probably going through. By that I mean, when we are so new and unsteady and don’t have the program, what is going to catch us if we fall?
Those of us, who have been around and in the program for a while know that we have a whole set of tools available to us to catch us and keep us safe in the event we stumble. And we will stumble on any given day. We have the BB, the steps, prayer, the people and a host of things which keep us safe. And when we’re really up against it and struggling to keep our feet, we have learned from our sponsors and experience that we can let go and trust as we fall back into God; our safety net. I know that I have learned that when all else fails, the God of my understanding is there to catch me.
But, as I looked at this man, I wondered if he has a safety net. He reminded me of me, because I was so lost, when I came in. Like him, I didn’t know how to reach out for help. I stayed aloof out of fear and pride. I was almost unapproachable, as he is. He almost shrinks away at the approach of others and is gone quickly at the end of the meeting.
As the meeting ended, I borrowd a pen and wrote my name and number down and pressed it into his hand. He looked at me and I just said something to the effect of if he needed anything. It’s nowhere near a safety net, but just a tenuous reminder that one’s there if he needs it. Who knows?
Anyway, I was thinking about this. How fortunate we are that there is something there to provide us with a safe haven if ever we need it. And I was hoping he finds his way back until he can find what we have, before alcohol calls him back.
Pinpoint customers who are looking for what you sell.