“Let us put our minds together as one.” - Irving Powless, Sr., ONONDAGA
We found ourselves among a very special group of people who have suffered like us and found recovery. In their experiences, freely shared, we found hope for ourselves. If the program worked for them, it would work for us.
Imagine if we sat in a circle and put an object in the center. Everyone would see different points of view from each other. Some would even see opposites because they would be sitting on opposite sides of the circle. In other words, you don’t have to see what I see for you to be right. Everyone in the circle is right based on their own point of view.
A newcomer walks into their first meeting, shaking and confused. People are milling about. Refreshments and literature are set out. The meeting starts after everyone has drifted over to their chairs and settled themselves in. After taking a bewildered glance at the odd assortment of folks in the room, the newcomer asks, “Why should I bet my life on this group? After all, they’re just a bunch of addicts like me.” Though it may be true that not many had much going for them when they got here, the newcomer soon learns that the way we are living today is what counts.
If we are willing to listen to everyone’s point of view, we can get a more accurate description of the object in the center. This is one way to put our minds together. When we get clarity from each other, we should give thanks and be grateful.
Our meetings are filled with those whose lives have turned completely around. Against all odds, we are recovering. The newcomer can relate to where we’ve been and draw hope from where we are now. Today, every one of us has the opportunity to recover. Yes, we can safely entrust our lives to our Higher Power and to the Fellowship. So long as we work the program, the payoff is certain: freedom from active addiction and a better way of life.
Just for Today: The recovery I’ve found in the Fellowship is a sure thing. By basing my life on it, I know I will grow. Let us put our minds together as one.