“The first gift of abstinence is clear thinking, ” says this anonymous OA member. For her, abstinence is also the first priority for being a capable sponsor. “When I walk the walk,” she says, ”I’m willing to be an ear and listen. I feel more flexible and less rigid.”
In this short story, Laurie expresses her gratitude for the virtual Fellowship and virtual options for working the program. For Laurie, a mix of face-to-face meetings and virtual meetings has saved her life and her recovery.
Have you ever wondered if you can have success in recovery with a sponsor who is not like you. Yes you can says one anonymous OA member. “We are not all alike . . . . What is so wonderful about my sponsor is that she is a really good listener. . . . she trusts the process.”
“My sponsor reminds me there is no such thing as a good or bad sponsor,” says S.S. “All have taught me something and have been examples of what I want or do not want to do.” If you are looking for a sponsor, this story can broaden your perspective.
Is it necessary that you find a sponsor who follows your plan of eating? Let’s take a closer look at this question with a response written by a member of the OA Board of Trustees.
“It took a long time before I believed I am equal to others, says one OA member. “I think one of the reasons this happeend is because I heard the Twelfth Tradition over and over at meetings.”
“I cannot believe I have been abstinent long enough to have made it to Step Twelve,” says Michele. “When I first came to this program, I would not have thought my life would be as it is now.” What changed for Michele? Read the story to find out!
“What is a spiritual awakening?” asks Joann. “How do we get it? If it is the result of working the Twelve Steps, that means we have to work them.” In Transformational Awakening, Joann describes what her spiritual awakening has looked like and meant for her.
“I’ve learned that my serenity and peace of mind are based on how much I surrender,” says Joel, who turns to Step Eleven when emotional storms roll in.
“My understanding of anonymity has gone through several evolutions,” says one OA member, who now sees how anonymity encourages a focus on recovery.