During a recent meeting, we talked about unity. I enjoy the fellowship with people who understand my journey. Most non-alcoholics will not get the struggle we AAs live with on a daily basis.

One gentleman describes our alcoholism as a shipwreck. Some of us are hanging on in lifeboats. Some are drowning in the sea. Some will change lifeboats along the way, while others huddle in the same boat clutching a life preserver.

Still others jump into the sea. Some are picked up again while others are not. All are welcome in the lifeboats and are never cast out. The choice to try and swim the cold, shark infested waters is ours.

Yes, it is a scary journey, but one we do not have to endure alone. The sea is vast, and it is wonderful to know that if we fall overboard, there is always a hand to pull us back in again.

As we row along, we share stories and adventures. We take care to look for those treading water. Using all our power, we pull the one overboard to safety. In doing so, we save ourselves.

“I am responsible.

When anyone, anywhere, reaches out for help, I want the hand of AA always to be there.

And for that I am responsible.”