Certainly charity is a strong tradition in most spiritual practices. What is this way of life if we do not help others who seek it and need our insight and guidance? This is not about proselytizing. It is about giving a hand up to those who reach up to be helped. We do not run around trying to push our program on others. Through our example in leading lives infinitely better and more productive than we once lived, those who need the program will be attracted to our way of life and may ask how we did it. We make sure we never turn our back on those in need of recovery who truly want it.

"It feels good to see a young people, for me, those scared and confused by the road their addiction has taken them. To watch them transform over time has a huge impact on me. I attended marriages this year of people that would have never stayed together had their lives continued on the road they were traveling. Whenever I take a newcomer under my wings, it reminds me of where I was and how far I've come. It reminds me of the miracle of recovery." James K.

I practice these spiritual principles in every area of my life. Emotionally, sexually, financial, workplace, home, meeting room. I try my best. I tried one time, to try and save the world. My intentions were honorable, but I burnt out. So, today I would sooner do good, than bad. Today I would sooner kiss someone’s feet, rather than fight them.

I owe my life to my God and my sponsor who took me through the steps. He puts a lot of effort into passing the 12 steps message, he accepts life, at life’s terms, and in doing so, has peace of mind.

There are many ways for us to spread the message of hope to other Alcoholics & addicts. When we become secure in our own recovery from working the previous Steps, a very good way to give back to the program is to become a sponsor. A sponsor in the 12 Step program passes on all the knowledge, strength, understanding, and awareness that they've acquired to help their sponsee's on their journey. A sponsor will assist them and support them on their path. Sponsors provide comfort, security, care, suggestions, personal experience, guidance, support, and we listen to them as they share about their personal challenges and difficulties, both the good and the bad ones. We encourage them and give them confidence and strength to assist them in overcoming the challenges they encounter. Sponsors help them work the 12 Steps, give them assignments, take them to meetings, etc.... We are there for them in every way, and make sure for them to know that important fact.

Another great way to spread the message is to share and open up at meetings. As we share at the meetings about our experience, strength, and hope, we gain the opportunity for other addicts to realize that they too can achieve victory in their own recovery. Sharing is a great tool for other addicts in the program. We become totally honest and open about our experience, so other addicts can become aware of the tools that they can use to overcome their challenges. Newcomers see our current state, and come to realize that they can reach a new level of success as well. We take extra time with other addicts, and show love and comfort them on their journey. It is truly a great and uplifting experience. Nothing compares to living life with love and respect for others. The 12 Step program has survived this long as a proven course of recovery because of all the hard work and time that we all put into it. What could be better than saving peoples lives? I know that if it wasn’t for the great 12 Step Fellowship, then I'd probably be dead, withering away into oblivion. For that, I am forever thankful to the 12 Step Fellowship. Thank you for allowing me to be of service, and it has been an uplifting and fruitful adventure. You too, can achieve this great feeling by working an active 12th Step to spread the message of experience, strength, and hope to other Alcoholics & Addicts in the program. Take care and good luck on your journey.