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Share October 2024

Share Magazine October 2024 cover image

October 2024 - Share Editorial

Dear Reader

I’m delighted to hear Share being discussed in meetings and some very forthright pleas for articles to be written! There are thousands of ‘shares’ out there, but we need yours. Everyone in AA has a message to carry and our wonderful Programme tells us we must carry it, so please do it this week!
I remember having an enormous resentment about being asked to write a Step Ten journal every evening for a month. This was not only for recording the errors of my interactions with people, but also for noting things I had done well that day. This method made me practice until it became a way of life! I’m so grateful for this introduction to Step Ten, it helps me recognise aspects I must work to improve, but also builds self-esteem by acknowledging my days include good behaviours too. The guidance I received gradually taught me a motto which I try to adopt today: is it kind, is it true and is it necessary? When I want to say something outside these criteria, I must usually seek some Higher Power direction. Sometimes I still fail, the power of Step Ten allows me to try and fix this promptly. I was taught that a clear conscience is a soft pillow, I’m sure I can continue to enjoy peaceful sobriety with this Step by my side.
How damaging it would be if our Fellowship indulged in expressing opinions on outside issues. It invariably seems to lead to discontent because of course, opinions differ. I ponder on whether the Step Ten Promises help us all with Tradition Ten, “And we have ceased fighting anything, or anyone…” (BB p.84) There is no doubt that alcoholics can be opinionated, I see this trait in myself sometimes! However, while politics, wars or the type of biscuits purchased for meetings may be debated among us as individuals, there is an intuition within AA that opposing or supporting outside elements would likely harm the Fellowship.
Supporting Share is an inside issue though! It’s lifesaving and crucial for existing members and alcoholics who are yet to find us. If you need a little inspiration to get started with your article, here are a few ideas: Honesty, Faith, Freedom, Change. The Share Team looks forward to hearing from you!