Two Different Sides Of The Same Coin

"We are people who normally would not mix. But there exists among us a fellowship, a friendliness, and an understanding which is indescribably wonderful. We are like the passengers of a great liner the moment after rescue from shipwreck when camaraderie, joyousness and democracy pervade the vessel from steerage to Captain’s table. Unlike the feelings of the ship’s passengers, however, our joy in escape from disaster does not subside as we go our in dividual ways. The feeling of having shared in a com mon peril is one element in the powerful cement which binds us. But that in itself would never have held us together as we are now joined." -Alcoholics Anonymous pg. 17

Tonight I am reminded of how varied the people in recovery are. No matter what we do, where we came from, or what rung of the social ladder we hang onto; we all share a common problem, but more importantly we share a common solution. Yet, those differences make for a beautiful mix!

My own list of friends include doctors, truck drivers, airline pilots, school teachers, architects and even bar tenders. They are from small towns, big cities, and other countries. Before coming into the rooms, I was very close minded towards people who I perceived as "different" than me. Because of the need of support of others to stay sober, that has gladly changed! That's not to say I'm not judgmental of others, but I've learned to question those judgements and the authenticity of their roots. Too often we (I) can get caught up in self and can easily block ourselves (myself) from the richness of those around us. I believe now it is because we are all so different, (yet alike) that we can learn so much from each other. That wasn't always the case...

Just tonight, I met a friend on an overnight who happens to be an airline pilot. We attended a meeting together and had a bite to eat. After returning to my hotel, I had a nice conversation with another friend who is a truck driver over the phone. If I hadn't met these guys under the circumstances that we've met, I probably wouldn't have them as a friends. We come from different worlds, yet we identify with each other on a level that is intrinsic. Despite the shared struggles, I have found that our differences can be just as enlightening. I learn so much because of their differences from me! If it weren't for my active participation in recovery, I would be missing out on so much!

Thank God for differences!