June 9, 2023
“You are not alone”
– Alcoholics Anonymous slogan
When still-suffering alcoholics walk into an AA meeting, hesitantly and reluctantly, the first thing they see is a sign that says, “You are not alone.” Simple enough. Few take it to heart when they go through those doors, but eventually they come to understand that “you are not alone” not only means the companionship they find among other recovering alcoholics but also the companionship of their “Higher Power.”
For some, learning to believe in a Higher Power takes time. For others, it comes naturally. But for all, learning to trust their Higher Power requires practice. The same is true of those who are not suffering from an addiction, but who are suffering from grief and searching not for recovery but for healing, which are often one and the same.
Inevitably, those who find recovery, just as those who find healing, come to believe in a power greater than themselves … and come to trust that Higher Power. The steps are simple but fundamental. Ask for help, accept the help, acknowledge the help, and say thank you for the help. Healing, like recovery, is an arduous journey that requires time, patience, perseverance and trust.
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You won’t have all the answers in one day, one week or even one year. Healing after a loss is a process, but never forget that if you trust, the help you need is available. You are not alone.