From the beginning in Akron, sponsorship has been a crucial part of AA practice and progress, and it was the topic of the meeting.
In AA, we focus on the importance of sponsorship for spiritual growth. The relationship is very spiritual, but it can be practical and occasionally amusing.
At our meeting, one of the fellows shared a sponsorship story that was spiritual, practical, and humorous.
He began his share, “I was working with a sponsee. He had about three years in the Program. He was doing well in his job, he had his driver’s license back, and he had found a special gal.
“I knew about her; we had talked about her in the past. They had some ups and downs. But for the moment, things seemed to be on an even keel.
“He called to share his latest news. He was going to take his girlfriend on a two-week holiday in Hawaii. But that was not all he was going to propose. He told me that he would pop the question halfway over the Pacific; he thought it was romantic and perfect in every way. He believed her joy would be complete, like a fairy tale.
“OMG, I thought to myself, what am I supposed to say now?
“Normally, when dealing with sponsees, I don’t go outside the Steps. For sure, I don’t give relationship advice.
“Mentally, I paused and asked God for help, hoping that intuitively I would know what to say.
“Referring to Steps #3 and #11, I asked him if he had prayed about this, asking for knowledge of God’s will?
“He replied that he had done this, and he was pleased to report that God had agreed it was a good idea.
“I asked him if he had told God how he was going to propose halfway to Hawaii? He replied that this seemed a bit much; he didn’t think God was interested in the small granular details.
“I suggested that he take this up with God, and in particular ask God for the strength and grace to accept her answer if she said no.
“He followed my suggestion and took it up with God. At least, I assume he did, because he proposed before they took off.
“Turns out God is that granular. He even showed me how to address this issue within the Steps.”
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