?"Each of us is put here in this time and this place to personally decide the future of humankind. Did you think you were put here for something less?"
-Chief Arvol Looking Horse
When we are in the midst of a painful struggle, it can seem as if the whole world revolves around us and our pain. Our view becomes one-dimensional. Everything is evaluated through the lens of that struggle.
My recovery. My sponsor. My steps. My meetings. I know – in recovery – we have to be somewhat selfish to make sure we focus on the first things first. But, if you’re anything like me, my thoughts, my cravings, my desires continued to be at the forefront of my mind.
I always hate it when people bring up a problem, but then don’t offer any meaningful solutions. And the truth is, I don’t have a cure. But I do have a gentle suggestion. Reach out and do a kindness to someone else. Just one teensy one. That’s why service is such an important part of 12 step meetings. Even if it’s making coffee or putting out literature, it is taking a step to make someone else’s life a little easier.
Need some ideas?
• Shovel a sidewalk (I don’t know about you, but we’ve got lots of snow).
• Bake a meal or treat and deliver it to someone who needs a lift.
• Send a card with a note inside to someone who makes your life easier.
• Go volunteer to love on the puppies at the animal shelter.
• Curl up on the couch and call a long lost relative who loves to talk.
Did you know that one good deed can shift the balance of the whole world?
I know, it sounds overly dramatic, but you should never underestimate the power of your goodness and kindness.
