A New Sense of Belonging

 I am not an Indigenous American. I can’t claim a Tribal identity. I can, however, relate to the word “tribe”, especially in relation to being in a 12 Step group. Together, we agree to certain principles which enhance our personal growth as well as the continuance of the group. Responsibility rests on each individual doing his or her part which enhances both aspects.

Step 5 asks me to openly share my secrets - my fears, my missteps, my bad behavior - with a trusted confidant. I, in turn, am asked to listen to another’s vulnerabilities with an open, non-judgmental heart. In so doing, we establish mutual trust, from which we are both free to grow into our best selves. That’s the plan.

How honest I am with myself determines how much I can learn from my past. Sobriety is so much deeper than simply not drinking - it is Freedom, Joy, Serenity, Peace. It is a life-long process, one which gets easier with willingness to be humbled by Reality.

My tribe helps me by challenging me to be transparent while fully accepting me as the work-in-progress I am. My Higher Power is always present as my Source of Truth. I am welcomed over and over again. 

I belong.

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