Things I learned (or was reminded of) this week. An ongoing series.

 

 

There is no fear, no frustration, no regret, no sadness, which cannot be at least somewhat reduced by sharing it in a meeting.

 

Sometimes when I share in a meeting I might be a help to someone, or perhaps a comfort, or even occasionally an inspiration.  Undoubtedly other times I am quite possibly a horrible warning, a cautionary tale or even a profound example of untreated alcoholism -- being "dry" but not "sober."  Regardless, it's none of my business what others might think; be it well or ill.  It is my business to share as truthfully as possible, and leave the rest up to The Universe.

 

Sometimes my only job in the meeting is to sit there and keep my eyes open for the next person I'm supposed to offer to help.  (At first I wrote "supposed to help" but that sounds both aggressive and arrogant -- I think it is much more true to the spirit of AA to say that I offer to help.  If someone wants it, that's fine; if they don't, that's fine too.  Ultimately I'm just supposed to be willing to help and available to do so -- that's pretty much it.)

 

To quote the famous gal who first said it:  What other people think of me is none of my business.  Took me a while to fully understand that one, I must admit -- and it has taken even longer to live it -- still backslide a little once in a while, but there's been phenomenal progress overall.  (If it troubles you too, be patient.  Progress comes.)

 

 

 

 

Comments

[Bobby D.]

Your last observation about what others think about me reminded me of another zinger. Someone was worried about this and his friend said: "Don't worry about about what they think about you--because they don't very often!"

Ah yes. I'm still prone to think the Universe revolves around me. Grin. however, I am getting better about remembering that I'm a spoke in the wheel--but I'm no big deal!

Thankyou for the reminder--and I love the picture!

[Donna]

Love the non-mirror! You are fabulous Mr. SP.

[SoberJulie]

I finally began to understand that when someone close to me shared their opinion of me. It broke my heart because I didn't see it coming and after doing my inventory and some efforts with this person I realize I just plain cannot change their mind.
Pain brings progress.