Such parts of our story we tell to someone who will understand, yet be unaffected. The rule is we must be hard on ourself, but always considerate of others. - ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, p. 74
Respect for others is the lesson that I take out of this passage. I must go to any lengths to free myself if I wish to find that peace of mind that I have sought for so long. However, none of this must be done at another's expense. Selfishness has no place in the A.A. way of life.
When I take the Fifth Step it's wiser to choose a person with whom I share common aims because if that person does not understand me, my spiritual progress may be delayed and I could be in danger of a relapse. So I ask for divine guidance before choosing the woman whom I take into my confidence.
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I'm grateful that I've had wonderful sponsors who I could trust and share my Fifth Steps with. I'm also grateful that I've learned from other women in the program, not to put sponsors on a pedestal. I know that I don't have to confide in someone I don't feel safe with for any reason. My sobriety is a precious gift, and my ability to help others, any myself, depends on keeping my own side of the street clean, and respecting any confidence that has been placed in me!
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