The Benefit Of Experience

 One of the promises given to us as we grow in our recovery is: No matter how far down the scale we have gone, we will see how our experience can benefit others.  (Big Book pages 83-84)  Who of us would deny the benefit found in sharing one’s experience, strength, and hope with others and being given the same gift in return?  We all are excited to share what is working for us.  This promise reminds us that it is in being vulnerable and willing to share even the lessons from our weakest times and darkest days that benefits others.  Are we willing to give that gift today? 

 There’s no benefit in sharing “war stories” or wallowing in self-pity about how bad things were.  None of us needs the triggering reminders that come from too many details of our experience in the dark days of active addiction.  However, what we do need is hope, no matter how far we have fallen.  A brief description of circumstances at the time, and the amazing joy we experienced in being uplifted by a loving God from the place we were at to this day of life in sobriety – now that is a story sure to bring hope to someone else. 

We were hopeless and powerless until God stepped in to rescue us.  The sharing of our getting on board with God and the stability He brought to our lives is a message other strugglers are longing to hear.  This will surely spark hope in the darkness of their own struggle.

Prayer:  Loving God, I am thankful for where I am today because You rescued and steadied me.  Please give me the willingness, humility, and focus to share how You found me in my darkest days and gave me new life so others can be truly amazed at the awesome power You have to help a hopeless addict.  Amen

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