September 22, 2010

Step Five: A Two-Way Street

Today I got a different perspective on Step Five when I studied the September 22nd reading in Courage to Change.

This Step reads, "Admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs."

There is so much to gain by taking this Step with someone we trust. We experience a new kind of intimacy when we share our private self with another person. We are free of our most troubling secrets!

The person listening to a Step Five also gains from what is shared, because
listening gives us the opportunity to practice giving unconditional love.

I've been honored when I was entrusted to share in such a sensitive and personal experience. Hearing another's honest program work, helps me to appreciate how far I have come. I can often identify with the feelings that are expressed. I find out again that I am not alone, when I hear stories similar to my own.

Whether we are the listener or the speaker, we can witness ourselves as part of a healing Higher Power, knowing that the story shared and the questions asked will shed light on our own lives.

Today's Reminder

"When I respond to a request for help with working [this] program, I help myself as well."

In program if we want to keep the miracle of recovery we must give it away. Listening is one way to give away the love of the Program.

Deep listening is miraculous for both listener and speaker. When someone receives us with open-hearted, non-judging, intensely interested listening, our spirits expand. Sue Patton Thoele

1 comment:

  1. It is so true that I must give away what I have in order to keep it. Doing service work is something that I stress with sponsees.

    ReplyDelete

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