I still have to remind myself to ‘TAKE THE CHANCE’ on leaving things in the care of my Higher Power. Let’s be honest, HP has consistently done a better job than I used to do with my stubborn, self-centred attitude! A bottle was always my solace when people, places and things didn’t deliver what I wanted. The last year has brought a few challenging times, and I find myself relying heavily on the Step Three prayer (BB p.63) It gently guides me to get out of self, to try and think of others, and to trust in a Fellow’s words: “If you believe it will be ok in the end, if it’s not ok, it’s not the end.”
Faith as a spiritual principle is indispensable for me, it’s comforting, reliable and inspiring. This month’s Step Three articles have given me wonderful reminders that HP will keep me on the right road if I let it drive.
Tradition Three is so important, it held me when I doubted that I belonged, when I thought I wasn’t far enough “…down the scale…” (BB p.84) I’d cling on to the desire to stop drinking, and when I listened, I could hear that others in AA had arrived while still employed, with homes/cars, and with children in their care. If anyone wants to stop drinking, they are welcome at our wonderful Fellowship no matter what they’ve done or haven’t done, got or haven’t got. It’s a membership scheme like no other on earth!
There is a flurry of articles forthcoming from a particular group currently – I love reading the variety of ESH from you all! If you haven’t seen yourself in print yet, keep reading Share because sometimes it takes a few months for submissions to reach publication. I encourage all AA groups out there to try this friendly competition and see how many of your members can be motivated to write to us, sharing is valuable service!