Living Sober

Following, the leader asked for the group to read the steps different members took turns doing this task. After, the reading of the twelve steps various members of the group took a turn reading from the book call “Living Sober.” The chapter emphasis was on the First things first principle. Once the reading was over the leader shared a little bit about her personal experiences and First things first helped her keep her life in order so that she could concentrate on her sobriety.
The group leader shared with the group that when her life was in disorder and turmoil, she would recur to drinking. However, first things first helped her understand that bringing order and healing to her life was as simple as not taking that first drink. Once, she followed and adhered to that principle she was able to overcome her drinking habit and maintain her sobriety.
The leader then opens the floor to anyone who wanted to share their personal struggle and the methods they are using to stay sober.
The first one to open the floor was a female who shared with the group that her ex-husband had passed away several days before the meeting. She stated that the home she is residing in belongs to her ex-husband and that she is now concern that she may have to leave the house. In addition, she shared being concern about the financial implications of the funeral arrangements.
This member expressed how her current situation is debilitating her both physically and mentally eventually making her weak and susceptible to going back to her drinking habit. However, she has been praying and reciting the first things first principle along with the twelve steps. She said that praying had helped her. Also, when her son told her that if she goes back to drinking, then he is not going to have anyone to help him through his struggle with drugs and alcohol. Other members shared as well and what I noticed is that all of them rely on
God.
In fact, every member who spoke about their struggle and journey to recovery expressed thankfulness to God. Furthermore, they all associated their ability to recover and maintain sobriety to the strength they found through God. They all discover that God is a redemptive God who loves them and who will not forsake them. It was impressive to hear their deepest and sincere gratitude for the program, for God and their sponsors.
The group members were always respectful to the individual who took the floor to share their story. I did not see any disagreements throughout the time I was there. The leader was always in control, and she made sure that the rules and expectations were always read before the meeting began. The leader also shared a common factor with the group since she is also a recovered alcoholic.