" That probably no human power could have relieved our alcoholism." AA Book Pg 60. Despite our best efforts, recovered AA's, doctors, helpers etc. we are not able to relieve alcoholism. This is one of the most difficult illness known to man. That's because of the unique emotional nature of the illness. The sufferer is the only one who can make the decision for recovery. That's one of the reasons I have to keep reading and studying the chapter on "Working with others." We have to be truthful to the newcomer, even if means another relapse. Sobriety is not the objective of the program. Might sound strange to hear this. In step2 the objective is clearly stated-"Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity." Sanity gives us the defense needed against the 1st drink. On pg 84 AA Book that objective is realised. "And we have ceased fighting anything or anyone-even alcohol. For by this time sanity will have returned. We will seldom be interested in liquor. If tempted we recoil from it as frrom a hot flame." This sanity which is our defence comes from working the first 10 steps thoroughly. No sponsor or AA meeting or anybody else can provide sush a defense against the1st drink. Only God can. Not only that but He also wants to.
Good morning, Gonee! a timely reminder. with summer rolling around, my husband ha been putting beer in the fridge. I told him it bothers me to see beers in the fridge every day and he told me that "that is your problem" and i agreed. but i got ruffled around the edges in my self righteousness.... i had to sepearate myself from having 'hurt feelings'... then i just put them in a spot where i did not see them as easily. he has his cold beer and cold beers are not the first thing i see when i open the refridgerator. no reason to get all catty about it.... so i choose not to. i choose progress over perfection. LOL. hugs jj
-- Edited by jj on Tuesday 22nd of June 2010 09:55:15 AM