Endigar 448 ~ When the Going Gets Rough
From Today’s Daily Reflections;
It is a design for living that works in rough going. (Alcoholics Anonymous, page 15)
When I came to A.A., I realized that A.A. worked wonderfully to help keep me sober. But could it work on real life problems, not concerned with drinking? I had my doubts. After being sober for more than two years I got my answer. I lost my job, developed physical problems, my diabetic father lost a leg, and someone I loved left me for another — and all of this happened during a two-week period. Reality crashed in, yet A.A. was there to support, comfort, and strengthen me. The principles I had learned during my early days of sobriety became a mainstay of my life, for not only did I come through, but I never stopped being able to help newcomers. A.A. taught me not to be overwhelmed, but rather to accept and understand my life as it unfolded.
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I have never really asked if the recovery program would help in non-alcohol related issues. It seems like a legitimate question. I spend a lot of time in negative rumination trying to evade the paralyzing effects of depression. It is my reaction to the day-to-day faucet dripping routine of life that I am learning to overcome right now. I have used the program to try and keep my alcoholism out of the mix.
I experienced the post-marital apocalypse of 2003 prior to seeking and embracing the 12 step recovery program for my alcoholic enslavement. So I have not had a major non-alcoholic related issue that I have applied the program to. I suppose the time is coming life doing what life does.
The contributor defines the success of his sobriety in dealing with the harsh blows of his life in the following ways;
He was able to receive help from A.A. in the form support, strength, and comfort.
(FELLOWSHIP PROVIDING SUPPORT NETWORK)
The principles he had learned in A.A. became a mainstay in his life, helping him not only to survive the tragic but to remain useful and able to help others.
(STEPWORK LEADING TO SPONSORSHIP AND SERVICE)
Ultimately A.A. taught him not to be overwhelmed but accept and understand his life as it unfolded.
(IMPROVED CONSCIOUS CONTACT WITH HIGHER POWER LEADING TO SERENITY)
This is encouraging and a good measure for success in facing the chaos storms of life. I hope to build my connection with the fellowship, Gomu (God of my understanding), and the principles of AA for the times of testing.
Daily Reprieve 
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