A foundation of the 12 step program is carrying the message to others. But sometimes carrying that message comes with a price. Sometimes the price is small. We may spend some of our time taking a newcomer to a meeting, or spend free time helping them work the steps. We may answer phone calls at night or at a time that is inconvenient for us. However, this is a small price to pay for the gift of sobriety. We give away what we have so we can keep it. A friend who has been sober for a long time, however, recently paid a heavy price while helping a man through his early sobriety.
This friend has been sober for a long time and has helped hundreds of alcoholics during his 30 years of sobriety, including this writer. So we were all disappointed when we heard that one of the men he sponsors is suspected in the burglary his house while he was on vacation. My friend lost several thousand dollars worth of personal possessions. But an even greater loss was the sentimental value of some of the things that were taken. Also, his sense of trust was shaken.
His attitude toward the burglary is a good example for us. He says the things he lost were "just stuff." Much of it can be replaced, with the exception of the memories. He doesn't have obvious resentment. He seems philosophical about the loss.
And the last time I saw him he was at a meeting still trying to help others stay sober.
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