I was introduced to SA by another inmate. Initial contact from the SA sponsor team was very helpful. I am now working with my sponsor—brother and friend—who was assigned to me earlier this year. SA has changed my life. Since joining, I thank God both for SA and for those behind the scenes who, along with my Higher Power, are helping me stay sober.
The morning smells like smoke A building is burning The siren is running But I am humming
I wrote this poem way back in ‘92. I go back to it often, and thought I might share it with my SA community.
Awake Awake now This day This moment
This short piece was performed during the variety show at the SA international convention in Seattle last summer. We weren’t sure what to call it — Poem? Spoken word? Rap? Chant? Prayer? Still not sure.
So, here I am in anticipation after my long journey Waiting on the hanging canopy swing in the shade of two giant elder pine trees With my son on the side of my sister’s house in Northern Idaho It’s a peaceful summer mid-afternoon with a few fluffy clouds in a high blue sky As my son and I take turns napping on the swing waiting for someone to arrive home
You want 12 Steps, man, now and with no rent just say I can’t [YEAH] and give up your old tent!
As water quenches, Lungs breathe, Mothers nurture, Music soothes.
Motivation is fleeting, Despair is seeping, Slowly I’m sinking into myself.
I will survive if I am strong, I will perish if I am weak, I will beat my addiction, I will not admit defeat.
