September 22
When They Call Someone Else
We spend time with someone who is struggling. We listen, share what helped us, and offer to be available. Later, we learn that they have asked somebody else to sponsor them. We are glad they found help. We may also feel a small, unwelcome sting.
That feeling deserves an honest look. Perhaps we had begun imagining a place for ourselves in their recovery. Being needed can feel very much like being useful, until someone gets what they need elsewhere. The purpose we cared about is still being served. Another alcoholic has someone to call. We can bring our disappointment to God without making the newcomer responsible for soothing it. There may even be relief in discovering that their future does not depend on our having a leading part in it.
Can I be glad that help arrived through someone else?
Their recovery has room for people I did not choose.
For the A.A. nerds: Alcoholics Anonymous, “Working With Others,” pp. 94, 96.