Love and service

In the Big Book, Bill Wilson says, "Love and service keeps us dry." My sponsor quoted him when I first got abstinent. It resonated over and over in my head and impressed me more than I ever imagined.

Whenever I would think about overeating or taking a bite, lick or taste of something, I would hear those words, "Love and service keeps us dry," and I'd do some form of "love and service."

For me, that means making a phone call to another addict, going to a meeting, maybe setting up the chairs or volunteering to do the literature, maybe telling my story (qualifying at a meeting)--whatever would distract me from thinking about extra food. It was no longer an option for me.

In time, I learned that "love and service" could also mean helping and loving people outside of the program. Being kind to my family and my children qualified or being nice to myself counted, too. Taking a bubble bath or doing my nails were ways that I showed myself that I loved myself.

Spending time with God was a form of "love and service." As I said yesterday, in order to have an intimate relationship with God, I need to pay attention. I feel loved. I am loved. The Bible tells me so.

"Love and service" not only keeps me "dry" (abstinent), but brings me peace, joy and contentment in life!

The program works because I work it.