An EDA Member Works the Steps (Big Book 523-524)

Step Twelve: Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to others, and to practice these principles in all our affairs.

I know from experience that I am perfectly capable of “falling asleep at the wheel” when I do not work the Steps on a daily basis. I am also still capable of lapses into self-pity, resentment, and fear whenever I fail to remind myself of who I am, where I came from, and what I am here to do. Step Twelve provides me an easy way to be reminded: I can share my experience, strength, and hope with others. Perhaps they will be able to take something useful from my story and insights, perhaps not. But in any case, I do my level best to turn my most awful experiences to good purpose. In working with sponsees, I get deep satisfaction from establishing authentic bonds with other human beings based on the truths of our lives. Often these bonds turn into durable connections with people who inspire me with their warmth, compassion, energy, and determination to “do the next right thing,” no matter what. I am humbled and awed by what simple reliance on a higher purpose can do, and I am intensely grateful to feel connected to so many amazing people.