Step Five had a lasting impact on both sponsor and sponsee through the Sponsor-by-Mail program.

SA members in prison are encouraged through the CFC Sponsor-by-Mail program. We let them know that people “on the outside” care about them. We all have dignity as human beings, and sometimes life in prison strips that dignity from those who live there. For no reason at all, COs (Correctional Officers) can be mean and arrogant. If the COs lack self-esteem, they may think that abusing incarcerated people raises their self-esteem. Despite such trials, when we members of SA work the 12 Steps, we are reminded that our Higher Power cares for us and accepts us as we are (Step Two).  We remind those incarcerated that we have a common bond in our powerlessness and a common solution to our addiction.

Through the CFC Sponsor-by-Mail program, those incarcerated learn about SA from the prison chaplain or other prison officials. They can request a free White Book, a subscription to ESSAY magazine, and sponsorship by an SA member. Many prisons allow incarcerated individuals to own tablets and speak or text to their families and friends. This is a great help to us who are sponsors, for sometimes it allows immediate communication. Rather than waiting several weeks between letters, a phone call, or text, this offers sponsorship in “real time.” 

Several months ago, I was speaking to my sponsee on the phone. He was sharing as we worked Step Five. A prison official could monitor our conversation at any time, so he was speaking in generalities to protect himself. As he shared his Step Four, he realized his responsibility for his acting out. He explained that for many years he had been blaming members of his family or other people for the way he behaved. Now, in sharing Step Five, he recognized his part. It was a very touching moment. What a communication; it changed both of us. 

Service is an essential part of my recovery. Such moments as I have described above bring life to my recovery.