It isn't a secret that doing something for someone else is always a good thing. It allows you to get out of yourself and give back, whether it is at a homeless shelter, a friend, or someone that really needs some help. Through my recovery I have learned that you are spinning your wheels unless they are willing to help themselves.
When I was still trapped in active addiction, my father was here for me to help and guide me through this life changing process. Not until I realized that it was what needed to be done did anything happen. I have based my recovery on helping others and offering suggestions that have worked for me in the past. This doesn't just work in recovery, it is a life skill as well.
Recently I have picked up a few new sponsees in my sponsorship tree. This has truly blown my mind, I am realizing that people are actually looking up to me. I am nothing special, just a guy that made a decision to never use again. Now my disease is telling me that I am not good enough and I don't know enough about this process to help anyone. My ego tells me that I am the greatest recovering addict in the world. I know that BOTH of these are not true. I think the man up stairs is working to put people in my life where both parties can have a mutually beneficial relationship.
I learn from people everyday, I love learning, it enables us to grow and reach new goals. It is when we stop being teachable that we tend to run into problems. Humility goes a long way in recovery, not thinking you know everything and willing to learn more about yourself is key. My father, sponsor, girlfriend, and best friends do a great job of keeping me humble. My ego likes to blow things up and make me think that I am better than I am.
Giving back to people and the program that has changed my life is truly my life's work I believe. I decided a few years back that having a positive influence on the youth, be it through Track and Field (the greatest sport ever) or school was what I was put on this earth to do. Being involved in the service structure for NA has also benefited me greatly. I have learned more about myself by doing things for other people than anything else before. It gives me a sense of accomplishment and pride when I am able to help someone other than myself.
So this is my challenge to you, go out and do something for someone else for no other reason than it is the right thing to do. I bet you will have a new sense of accomplishment and a new outlook on life. People need people, we can't do everything alone and shouldn't have to. As always, thank you for the support!!!!
