SENSE OF PURPOSE

May 13, from “Strengthening My Recovery” daily reader
Sense of Purpose
“Our experience shows that the Steps are a proven way of life, yielding new meaning and a sense of
purpose in one’s life.” BRB p.95
Did we save a life today?
Did we smile or have a kind word for a stranger? We might not know if that stranger was in the midst of
despair, wondering if life was even worth living. Could our simple act of kindness have brought even the
smallest spark of hope to that person?
We are not responsible for what others do, but we can consider the possibility that our recovery brings
us new awareness of what is happening around us and the positive impact we can have in seemingly
meaningless everyday contact.
We go through each day deep in our own thoughts. Often, we unwittingly avoid eye contact with others.
Even if we are not having the best day, smiling at a stranger and perhaps seeing a smile returned feels
good. Maybe we let the person in line behind us go ahead when we have a basketful and they have one
item. Or we take a few extra seconds to make eye contact with the clerk and wish them a good day.
These random acts of kindness can brighten someone’s day and help us feel connected. We may never
know the impact we make through our actions, even if we only spread a bit of joy in the moment. But it
is worth the effort to carry this message of hope.
On this day I will remember that what I learn through ACA and the Steps is not just for me. My progress
can affect everyone whose life I touch.

My Experience:

I think we have all heard the story of the high school student named Kyle, a kid who was befriended by another student who first viewed him as a nerd. They become good friends. At graduation, Kyle is valedictorian and reveals that on the day that his pal befriended him he was contemplating suicide. Although this story may be fiction, the moral of the story is to never underestimate the power of your actions because one small gesture can change a person’s life.I now try to walk through my world with that sort of sense of purpose every day. I say try because its progress not perfection and I know I am not perfect. I know that there are a majority of folks walking through the world that have had dysfunction in their childhood. They, like I didn’t, don’t even know it affecting them as this is just their “normal.” But I know. I know that some small random act of kindness could mean the difference to a person. A knowing glance, an approving nod, a comforting touch, an “I love you for being who you are” hug, a listening ear, all these things can help a person know that today, they were thought of as important. That is the sense of purpose I want to walk through the rest of my life with. Won’t you join me!!

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