Step 12: The Gift of Freedom

“Step 12: Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to others who still suffer, and to practice these principles in all our affairs.” BRB p. 279

My life in recovery got better when I stepped into service. Early on, though, I always enjoyed opening the church, putting out literature, making coffee and welcoming newcomers in our Wednesday night meetings. However, I remember how scared I became when a long-time member volunteered me to be the Group Service Representative for our ACA meeting. That meant I had tell my husband I was going to leave the house on the weekend — once a month on a Sunday afternoon.

You see, my husband never allowed me go anywhere on the weekends, as it was supposed to be “family” time.  I will never forget the day I came home and gathered up the courage to give him the news. I shook in fear when I told him I had been elected to be the Group Service Representative (GSR)  and meetings were once a month on Sundays.  Scowlingly he said, “Fine!”

On that day, I felt so much relief. Little did I realize at the time, that choice to stand up for myself started the beginning of my freedom from the prison he’d created for me. Step 12 and service? For me, it was the miracle that gave me permission to start stepping into the light and out of the darkness by helping others. Thank you, ACA.