Step by Step
Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023
“When I am hungry, give me someone that I can feed. And when I am thirsty, give me someone who needs a drink. When I’m cold, give me someone to keep warm. And when I grieve, give me someone to console.” —Saint Mother Teresa (1910-1997)
Today, the words of a religious saint transcend denominations and religion and embrace a fundamental ethic of recovery — focus off self and on those in need. The 12th Step issues our marching orders to be of service by carrying the message of recovery to those who need and want it. And by directing my focus on those who need the message and guidance through the other Steps, I hope to have little time to dwell on myself, though not neglecting my responsibilities to my own recovery. At the same time, by listening and helping someone else resolve or reconcile their problems, I may have to eat crow if I think no one carries the weight that I do. My recovery requires abandonment of self, and the quality of my sobriety can be expected to be less than what it could be if I make my recovery about myself. My drinking was all about me, and the outcome speaks for itself. Today, if I find someone who is hungry, who is thirsty, who is cold or who grieves, grant me the compassion and humility to put their needs before my wants. And our common journey continues. Step by step. — Chris M., 2023
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