We feared that if we ever revealed ourselves as we were, we would surely be rejected.... [But] our fellow members do understand us.
Basic Text, p. 32
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We need our fellow NA memberstheir experience, their friendship, their laughter, their guidance, and much, much more. Yet many of us hesitate to call our sponsor or visit our NA friends. We dont want to impose on them. We think about phoning someone, but we dont feel worthy of their time. We fear that if they ever got to know usreally know ustheyd surely reject us.
We forget that our fellow NA members are just like us. Theres nothing weve done, no place weve been, no feeling weve felt that other recovering addicts wont be able to identify with. The more we let others get to know us, the more well hear, Youre in the right place. Youre among friends. You belong. Welcome!
We also forget that, just as we need others, they need us. Were not the only ones who want to feel like we belong, who want to experience the warmth of friendship, who want someone to share with. If we isolate ourselves from our fellow members, we deprive them of something they need, something only we can give them: our time, our company, our true selves.
In Narcotics Anonymous, recovering addicts care for one another. What waits at the other end of the telephone is not rejection, but the love, warmth, and identification of the NA Fellowship. Make that call!
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Just for today: In NA, I am among friends. I will reach out to others, giving and receiving in fellowship.