Courage to Change:
One effect of alcoholism is that many of us are reluctant to get close to people. We have learned that it is not safe to trust, to reveal too much, to care deeply. Yet we often wish we could experience closer, more loving relationships. Al-Anon suggests a gentle way of approaching this goal: sponsorship.
By asking someone to sponsor me, I express a willingness to experience more intimate relationships. When he or she is there for me, returning my calls, offering support, caring, I develop a basis for trust. I realize that my Sponsor also has a life and that sometimes he or she will not be available. Because our relationship shows me that people can be reliable, I am better able to reach out to others in the fellowship.
My Sponsor helps me learn to receive love, but I also learn about giving. Someone who demonstrates unconditional love and still takes care of his or her own needs and who offers support without telling me what to do can be a wonderful role model. I can best put what I learn into practice by passing it on.
Today’s Reminder:
Intimacy can be one of life’s great gifts. I will avail myself of its benefits by reaching out to an Al-Anon friend today.
“The interchange between Sponsor and sponsored is a form of communication that will nourish both of you.”
– Sponsorship—What It’s All About