The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in service to others.
The “work” of Step Twelve can be broken down into two parts: helping others to recover from addiction, and practicing the twelve-step principles in all our affairs. The first part, helping others, can be done in numerous ways. One way to do this is to attend and participate in twelve-step meetings. By simply attending these meetings you are supporting others on their journey, letting them know they are not alone and that you care about them. When you talk in a meeting, which is highly encouraged, you share your experience, strength, and hope, allowing others to learn and benefit from both your errors and your successes. Even people who are uncomfortable talking in meetings can be of service by arriving early to help set up chairs and make coffee and staying late to clean up. These “quiet workers” are the people who make twelve-step meetings possible. The trick with this kind of service is finding a “job” that you’re comfortable with, and then doing it without expecting recognition or thanks.
Just for Today
Volunteer for a “quiet job” in your twelve-step fellowship.