Thought for the Week

Timothy D. Stein, MFT, CSAT

February 19, 2018

“Anyone who gives help also receives help and needs to teach what he has learned.  That is why he sits by the fire and recounts his day on the battlefield.” –Paulo Coelho

Addicts in recovery frequently sit by the fire and share their successes and struggles; it is called going to a meeting.  It is important to recognize that the help received in meetings is not one-directional.  The old timer guides the new comer while the new comer reminds the old timer of the importance of this work and the basic need for a solid program.  The addict who struggles reminds the addict who is more solid of the ever-present risk of relapse and the importance of program, while the more solid addict provides a model of a successful program as well as hope for the addict who struggles.  Meetings are important; they allow for giving as well as receiving.

When have I avoided meetings?  Why did I avoid them?  What have I missed out on sharing or receiving?  What gifts await me as I embrace meetings and the community that attends them?