I thank God for this wonderful Programme of Recovery, as, without it, I would be nothing. A very special AA friend passed away recently and if it were not for a loving God, the Twelve Step Programme and the unconditional love that is found within this Fellowship, I would not have had the opportunity to experience the peace I have today during times like this that would normally be so distressing.

Sometimes we think we are the only person in the world going through hardships and pain and we can be full of self-pity. Why me? Me me me!!! Then you go and visit a terminally ill cancer patient who is full of courage and strength, hope and faith, whose grateful spirit just lifts you up and humbles you. It makes me think that I should try and live each day as if it were my last, as nobody is promised tomorrow. We only have this moment and should make it count. It also shows me the real value of family and friends and that love conquers all. I only found the real meaning of love through AA and a loving God who did not keep a record of my wrongs and loved me unconditionally. This I must practise with others and live and let live. Allow others to be themselves and forgive on a daily basis as I have been forgiven.

Life is too short for regrets, dwelling on the past and worrying about the future. I learned in AA that worry does not change a thing. It does not put money into your bank account or make your family do what you want them to do or be. Everything is in the hands of our creator and acceptance has been the answer to my problems. Through accepting and loving myself with my faults and failures, I may be able to accept and love others just as they are. I know with my God of my understanding there are no exceptions of whom He loves or that He might love me more if I do this or do that - for God is Love.

So if you are feeling sorry for yourself or feeling life is dealing you the worst cards, go and visit a cancer patient who looks across the hospice bed and points out to you another patient and says “There is always someone worse off than me.” Go and visit someone whose only interest is the welfare of the family and friends visiting him - who makes them feel comfortable and at ease and laughs and jokes with them - who is Twelfth Stepping people in the hospital grounds and is still carrying the AA message whilst knowing that his time on this earth is nearly over.

Then you will see - this truly is A Special Angel.

Love and God Bless,
Caroline, Hamilton Sunday Night 12 Step Group