by Bill M.
I found myself smiling, remembering one of those defining moments in sobriety we are blessed to have. A moment of clarity when we are led to a Truth that changes how we look at something, and maybe how we live. I never really searched for them, they manifested as gifts through working with another alcoholic. This particular moment of clarity was brought about by a little bird and a question from my sponsor.
I was less than a year sober, and my sponsor and I were meeting at a coffee shop with outdoor seating. A few birds were hanging out in the rafters overhead, and then one little bird dropped down to the ground and began pecking at some crumbs near our table. We both noticed the bird had only one leg. It would hop and wobble and peck and hop and peck. My sponsor simply asked, “Do you think that bird feels any self-pity?” It looked very satisfied and industrious (and plump), and I knew it didn’t. I was shown a living, healthy example of acceptance that has since inspired me when I have struggled with self-pity.
Later, thinking more about moments of clarity in recovery, I remembered my first service as a meeting Secretary. It was my third or fourth meeting as Secretary, and both the coffee maker (who had the supplies) and the Chairperson called right before the meeting and said they wouldn’t make it. I was beside myself (these people will think I can’t organize a meeting!) until my sponsor said, “Bill it’s just an AA meeting. Nobody ever died from lack of coffee. Just throw out a topic and focus on the people who are here. The meeting will take care of itself.” I learned that the true purpose of a trusted servant is to humbly care for the people present.
Fairly recently, a piercing, enduring moment of clarity came from a sponsee. He was being treated for cancer, and some complex, painful surgery was involved. When he could take visitors, I asked him how he was doing and he said, quite sincerely, “I guess God’s not done with me yet.” I was stunned and humbled anew by the faith, selflessness and humility being demonstrated, and at once I understood the full meaning of practicing these principles in all our affairs.
If we are open and attentive while working with others, the program of Alcoholics Anonymous leads us to deep realizations that are not conclusions or ends, but rather Spiritual Truths that live in the light and accompany us through our journey in recovery.
Bill M.’s Home Group is BYOBook, 9 am, Saturdays, at Faith Lutheran Church in Castro Valley. Hybrid Meeting – Zoom Code is 871-0897-4652. Passcode is 110619.
