This afternoon an old friend called me from out of state, where he wanted to talk to me about the Twelfth Tradition, which he was asked to talk about. I think we were able to share a long talk about this Tradition and its effect on people like ourselves.
First of all we were able to talk about spiritual principles, and then humility, and the spiritual part anonymity has with alcoholics like ourselves. Then I know we both were aware of how important unity plays a part in this program, and what it is, when talking about the Traditions, especially in this one.
As we talked I became aware of what a great part compassion has in, not only this Tradition, but the whole program. It reminded me of what it was that I began to learn in this program, and that was faith, hope, and love. Especially love for one another. I had to recall this, because I really never knew anything about this before I got sober and was able to come into this program and began to grow and learn in here.
Anyway, we both had to talk about our being able to stay sober one day at a time. How, especially from this conversation, how we both had changed and grown in this program. I know we both had our own experiences with those old timers and how much they helped us to achieve a new way of life. And, of course, their willingness to reach out to old drunks like ourselves, and helped us to step back and learn the anonymity we needed to practice in this Tradition, and the whole program.
I know we both were grateful in our thoughts and conversation. It made me grateful to my Higher Power, the program, which was given to us, and all those who have helped me along the way.