Being a Difference Maker
“The world is not interested in what we do for a living. What they are interested in is what we have to offer freely—hope, strength, love and the power to make a difference!” –Sasha Azevedo
Two and a half years ago, it was suggested that I take a 12-Step class. At that time the only steps I planned to take were from my bed to my bathroom, which is what I did for three days and three nights prior to checking into treatment. Opiate, benzo, and alcohol abuse for 17-plus years equals one wretched, hellacious withdrawal. How could 12 steps make a difference in this mess of a life I had made? I was certain it would not be enough for me. I had set my own a** on fire every day and tried to run from the flame. Just now I sat on the side of my bed, stood up and walked 12 steps. That landed me in the middle of my hallway; it took me nowhere. But let me tell you where the 12 steps of AA took me. The steps took me a foreign place, a place I had never been. The steps took me to even ground, a warm safe place to start all over: a place of honesty, integrity and kindness.
I learned to be gracious, strong, and willing.
For the first time in my life I felt hopeful, I had faith, and I had a spiritual awareness. That would have been enough. I was out of the woods and I had no intention of “going for broke” with this recovery thing. But recovery was leading me over the rainbow. The 12 steps of AA were kicking my a** in a good way. Making a difference in the lives of others was never in the game plan. Only last week did I see that my love, my hope and my strength were making a difference to others.
I’m making a difference to a friend as he struggles with his addiction.
I’m making a difference to my son as he learns what a being a daddy is all about.
I’m making a difference to my daughter-in-law as she faces the challenges of being a new mommy.
I’m making a difference to a brand new baby, my granddaughter, as she tries to get used to this big ol’ crazy world.
My experience has been that, by understanding others, I understand me. By having faith and hope in others, I feel stronger. I gain self-respect by respecting others, and love flows effortlessly. Recovery started out being all about me, and now it’s not about me at all. These are very important gifts in my life, and they result from offering freely what was so graciously given to me. I came in powerless and was given the power to make a difference.
How has the power to make a difference made a difference in your recovery?