Isn’t it ironic: in our disease, we had no choice but to act out; we simply had to; but in recovery, our hearts change and we have no choice but to reach out—we simply have to. Everyone who gets sober, who begins to experience the fruits of recovery wants, as a natural consequence, to help others get sober, especially newcomers.
It has been very important for me to complete my SA Twelve Step work with my sponsor. It has been equally important to keep all SA letters and worksheets to show to my parole board that I have been taking actions to get better. They have been looking to see whether I am sober from my active addiction, and have a post-release support group.
Kawy shares in the article “Helping Others By Showing Up” how her way of helping newcomers to stay in SA is by sponsoring some, showing up, and being there for them in different ways.
It fills me with awe to write this ESSAY column each issue. Who would have thought, when this sexaholic entered a meeting many years ago, that my experience and recovery could help so many? I get to share with you all the marvelous things that contribute to international recovery all over the world.
Did you, like Moein in the article “Having Fun in Recovery with My Recovery Friends,” go to any length to let go of former playmates and playgrounds? Or do you still have some hidden bottles “to provide you with fun” in case recovery wouldn’t give it to you on your terms?
Sometimes the most beautiful things happen, even early in recovery. Having two kids, ages 2 and 4, gets me to places I’d rather avoid as a sex and lust addict.
Most people take vacation during the months of July and August. Some take short city breaks; others go for lazy beach holidays; still others prefer weeks of hiking and trekking. Of course, people travel for a whole variety of reasons and at any time of the year—work, to visit family and friends, for religious or other personal reasons.
In the August issue, learn which strategies members and groups from around the globe use to welcome and keep newcomers.
1. Because one day, I could be one of them. From a prisoner’s perspective, it would surely be a comfort to be visited by people who would not condemn me, who would understand me and be willing to help me.
What a wonderful fellowship we have! Whenever someone reaches out, SA is there. Through a dedication to service by members like you, we have an effective international organization to keep us available to the next newcomer—and to all of you.
