I love June. The smell of the native locusts is fading from my memory and the odors of the fields are starting to overpower the fruit blossoms burst. I want to practice my sixth step to calm me in my interactions with others as my social activity increases and I will necessarily faux pas. I will want to correct every mistake immediately.
This may not be realistic as I am still learning to live life on life’s terms. I will pray for humility in my meditation knowing that only my Higher Power can guide me toward perfection. I will trust in the program and realize that the tradition of non-affiliation protects my group from becoming dependent on the lures of late spring that society has already proven to disillusion. This time of year may energize our desire to say, “Look at us! Our group has the answer!”
I know that service is my key to safety and that the circles of love that the first 100 set into motion as perpetuated by the Trustees and General Service Board keep me focused on the next suffering alcoholic I meet. I rely upon the program as outlined in the big book to keep my vote and my voice in line with the principles that got me sober.
Fellow alcoholics worked these principles through the steps with me to save my life and theirs. If a collective principle guiding us all that is loving and kind, generous and forgiving I say call it service. Even if I cannot swallow everything the program entails all at once, I can pass on this idea. There will always be people who need my help. Only a Higher Power can maintain this alcoholic’s usefulness.
If I continue to practice the program I have a chance.
Car R,
D15 ELF Rep