I have a CHOICE on whether or not, and how I let others
affect me. I have no control over how they act or what they say; but I DO
have freedom to CHOOSE how I react.
It all starts with me, I'm an addict
and no better/worse than anyone else(addict or not). Especially when
sharing with other addicts(even more so with newcomers), I must try my best to
stay humble. Lest I never forget where I came from, may I never have to
go back.
In sharing my experience, strength, and hope with others; the
message of NA and recovery is rendered moot when I talk AT others and judge
their choices. In seeking my Higher Power's will for me, staying
open-minded, and accumulated recovery (reading the literature daily), I'll
better be able to share my message in a clear manner to others. Thus,
leaving it their decision to listen/not without feeling judged by
me/others.
When I get away from the Basics, my message becomes
mixed(sometimes saturated) with MY will, not my Higher Power's, and doesn't
carry the message of recovery that NA stands for. As a member of
Narcotics Anonymous, I have not just a responsibility, but also the blessing
for every opportunity to share with others seeking recovery. Not only
does the message I share with others provide opportunity to give hope for the
still suffering addict, but it strengthens my recovery when I practice the NA
way and follow my Higher Power's will.
I may not be able to share
anything that will make another choose to attend NA or seek recovery for
themselves; but I certainly can avoid saying things that may push a still
suffering addict further away from seeking recovery. My voice and actions
are my most powerful tools. I should stay conscious of these, and learn
how my Higher Power guides me and wants me to use them.
"My gratitude
speaks, when I care, and when I share, with others the NA way." -gratitude
speaks from NA
