A Perspective on Balance (Big Book 496)

Yet, even after all these years, my first response to practically everything life presents is still some form of fear. Luckily, there is always a clear solution: perspective that comes from humility and gratitude for the opportunity I now have to be of service to my family, friends, community, and humanity. My emotions, whatever they may be, exist to ensure that I take reasonable care of myself and am attentive and compassionate with others—all so I may be of service.

I have learned to be grateful for my emotional nature even if I still do not like some of my innate responses to the natural provocations of life. I have learned to love and trust. I have learned to be patient and tolerant—most of the time. I have learned to be quiet and flexible, though I am not always graceful. I am still very much a work in progress, but there is joy and humor in being fully human. I am grateful for and delighted with the relationships that recovery has made possible with my spouse, my children, friends, colleagues, and fellow volunteers. Today, I am gratefully free to feel and express the depth and breadth of all the emotions of which I am capable. I am unafraid to feel and unafraid to express myself, because I now trust I can do so without causing pain and suffering. Also, much of what I feel is now positive: sharing love and joy with passion and delight—what could be more amazing?