Member: Chuck K.
Location: Texas
Date: 03 Jan 1999
Time: 21:15:08

Comments

Hi, my name's Chuck, and I'm an alcoholic. It's only by the Grace of God and his doing for me today what I could never do for myself that I am sober. After having a few sober years, now, I am interested in hearing other's insight into one of my favorite--and most often needed--topics: humility. Thanks


Member: David H.
Location: N.S.---Canada
Date: 03 Jan 1999
Time: 21:48:39

Comments

Hi Boys & Girls, David H. -Alcoholic. A wise man in this wonderful program shared this with me one night, R.E. -Humility...

Do something for somebody everyday and don't tell them you did it. Humility will follow!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Humility dos'nt mean becoming a DOOR-MAT. It's in the B.B. Best of the NEW YEAR to all who venture here. David H.-------- Canada


Member: Clayton. S
Location: SJ CA
Date: 03 Jan 1999
Time: 21:55:12

Comments

Humility is the ability to be grateful for the things I have....


Member: Amy W.
Location: Indiana
Date: 03 Jan 1999
Time: 22:05:24

Comments

Good evening everyone. I am grateful for my computer tonight because I'm snowed in. Be grateful for everything you have. I am grateful I am an addict because I wouldn't be who I am today .


Member: Tim M.
Location: Boston
Date: 03 Jan 1999
Time: 22:16:50

Comments

my name is Tim and I'm an alcoholic. Humility is the ability to stay "right size". Know your limitations but reach your aspirations.


Member: Beth L.
Location: Lake Worth, Fl
Date: 03 Jan 1999
Time: 22:25:51

Comments

Hello All, Beth here and I am an alcoholic. I agree with everyone's ideas about humility. For me it is also the ability to remain teachable. To not be arrogant and to know that without my H.P I am miserable and not good for much of anything. Thank you for letting me share.


Member: Clayton S.
Location: SJCA
Date: 03 Jan 1999
Time: 22:26:26

Comments

I agree Amy be grateful for not being snowed on! I make a list either mentally or written everyday it keeps me centered on what I have to be grateful for and reminds me of what I will lose if I take a drink or snort a line..... It reminds me that I am powerless over my disease and must respect its power... the respect of it is also humility I think? I'm pretty new to this sobriety (30days vs 20 years out of 32yrs old)so If I'm lost or not being humble please let me know....


Member: Jim L.
Location: France
Date: 03 Jan 1999
Time: 22:35:13

Comments

Humility to me means being open to my Higher Power's (who I choose to call God) guidance. Of course that involves alot of 11th step work on my part. Thanks for letting me share.


Member: Ladd G.
Location: Alamama,U.S.A.
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 00:03:00

Comments

Hi Im Ladd Im Alcoholic Im really gratful to hear what Ive herd,after a while humility is coming to really understand that the promisses I recieve in recover are from the grace of a loveing H.P. Not something Ive done,or desirve,just his love for us all. Thanks you guys are great.


Member: Jim R.
Location: Berwyn
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 00:11:58

Comments

humility is never having to say I'm an asshole

Jim R.


Member: Doug
Location: California
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 00:20:06

Comments

Hi Doug Alcoholic, Humility to me, means I am not the center of the universe like I thought. I had to get humble to ask you people in the program for help, What an Order! It was the best thing I ever did. Also I need God's help to keep me sober, and to remember 1. I can't, 2. He can, and 3. I think I'll let him! So good to talk to everyone, One Day At A Time!GodBless


Member: Danny F.
Location: Fort Worth, (Cowtown) Texas, U.S.A.
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 00:46:45

Comments

My nane is Danny F. & I'm an alcoholic. Love the things I read here. Sometimes, I feel, God has aimed something at me. For that, I am greatful. It lets me know, that He loves me. He Doesn't give me what I deserve, (Thanks for that one!) what I desire, (Thanks, again!) but, what He wants me to have. (Thanks, for that, most of all!)

The other night, walking home, from my job, I was talking with Him, and listening to Him, and, He gave me a wonderful promise, which I want to share, with all.

In this new walk, of recovery, it's true, that He will do, for us, what we cannot do, for ourselves. This is a fantastic thing! The problem, I and many others have, with this, is the responsibility, that goes along with it. In order for Him to do, what we cannot, we must have done, already, all that we can. How many of us, really, do all that we can, to live this new way of life? I'm sorry, to say, that I, for one, do not, but, the wonderful thing about God, is, that, He still loves me, anyway, and that promise is always there. I just have to be willing to do my part, in my recovery. FANTASTIC!!!

And, Jim R. - It could be, that humility is, living in such a way, that nobody has to call us "assholes" !!!

Love to all of you, my AA brothers & sisters. Thanks, for letting me share! BYE!

Danny F.


Member: Gary and Leonard
Location: Alaska
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 01:34:08

Comments

My name is Gary and I'm an alcoholic. At the moment I'm enjoying a nice quite evening with my family and a friend fo mine Leonard who is also in the program. I live in Anchorage Alaska and Leonard lives in rural Alaska, in a village called Kokhanok. There are no AA meetings there, so as an alternative Leonard is a member Loners International which was set up out of general services in NY for people who are unable to attend meetings, due to location, health, etc. So for Leonard to come to Anchorage and go to meetings and visit this web site is a new experience. If I go to AA meetings one day at a time and do not drink, sooner or later humility will set in. All I have to do in meetings is look around and the one's who have quality sobriety are the one's who are also humble. The opposite if humility is ego. The initials e.g.o. in the program means edgeing God out......if I do the third step every day turn my life and my will over to the care of God, read pages 84 to 88 in the big book, go to meetings and help another suffering alcoholic, that is humilty. At this time I would like to let my friend Leonard from Lake Iliamna say a few words. My name is Leonard and I'm an alcoholic... Humility is when I first realized that I had lost control of my life, and had to turn to my higher power for guidence and sanity.


Member: Jeff S.
Location: Texas
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 01:47:19

Comments

Hi, Jeff/Alchoholic. My sponsor told me that humility is knowing my place in the world and then being able to accept it. I don't know. Seems that when I think I know, then I don't know :). Good topic, thanks.


Member: Larry M.
Location: Virginia Beach
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 01:59:16

Comments

Larry, alcoholic

Humility to me means honest self-appraisal. It means not blowing myself up or tearing myself down

For me personally in my daily life, I find that humility has a lot to do with responsibility. I used to avoid responsibility like the plague. Now when it's given to me, I can hardly believe that people have such trust and faith in me. Whether it's a big project at work, coaching little league, being asked to speak at an AA meeting or do community service work, I feel I have been given a privilege, not a responsibility, and approach it with a very humble attitude.

The best way I know to get humble is through working the 12 Steps. Each one of them has provided me with a different lesson in humility.

Peace & Serenity


Member: Corinne B.
Location: Camino, CA
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 05:11:11

Comments

Corinne, Alcoholic here, there & everywhere!

Right now I'm struggling with humiliation. To truly humble myself today, at Noon, I will walk into the MotherLode Fellowship in Placerville, CA and raise my hand to the question: "Is anyone here in their first 30 days of sobriety?" And I will say I am once again, for the 4th time in almost 13 years, on my very first day.

Humility means I don't have to do it perfectly. I just need to make an honest attempt. Humility means I have to get out of myself if I am to help another. Humility means asking for help when I feel I cannot help myself. Humility and honesty go hand-in-hand.


Member: Pam
Location: California
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 05:45:44

Comments

I'm Pam, I'm an alcoholic. I agree, humility is staying right sized. Not too big or too small, but just right (see, those children's bedtime stories DO come in handy). Humility is realizing that I am human and that means not yet God. I don't have to be perfect, and I am not a "perfect" disgrace anymore either. Being humble in the face of life and whatever it puts in front of me today means that I have choices. and that sometimes the road gets narrower. Thanks for the topic. and thanks for having a place for me to share at 3 a.m.


Member: Bob F
Location: Oregon
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 08:42:43

Comments

Hi all: Bob an alkie here.

My use of humility as a 12 step tool has nothing to do with humiliation. I consider it the opposite of umpudence. I admitted powerlessness over alcohol in a previous step. Here I admit that I'm powerless over just about everything except perhaps my own reaction to what happens. How I react is a result of my attitude, and that depends on what I do between my ears before it happens. I'm very aware that there will come a time that there will be no defence against taking that first drink, except perhaps that conditioning I used to develope an AA attitude. Thats where all of you come in. Thanks for being there for me.

My modified 10th step... Take my inventory to the group and when I'm wrong, the group will promptly admit it.


Member: Rivner
Location: Santa Fe, NM
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 08:50:43

Comments

Howdy Neighbors! Alcoholic; Rivner.

Here's how it seem ta go in my little dumb-ass world. I either get humble, or I get humiliated - which usually leads me to humility. There was an ol' feller years back who told me: "Son, if humility is what yer after, then you'd better get a feel for what it feels like so you'll be able ta recognize it when it hits ya." What he suggested I do was go out 'n' find somebody I didn't like a whole lot (with out lettin' 'em know that) 'n' wash their feet - literally. So I did; 'n' he was right. I've had a real clear feelin' of what bein' humble was ever since. On the other hand, I ain't sayin' that stayin' with that feelin' has been a breeze. For me, it's pritnear a daily thing that I have ta work at. I get thinkin' I'm pretty special some days 'n' need ta jump back 'n' do somethin' without a lotta flash. I got a construction crew what works for me. Some days I'll do the grunt work for them. It helps me, 'n' they sure do seen ta enjoy watchin' me doin' the crapp jobs. I guess it works.

Riv.


Member: Lori H.
Location: Michigan
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 09:59:31

Comments

My lesson in humility is ongoing. Every day I have to admit that I am not the perfect person I truly belived I was. I have to admit that things are not in my control (a very hard thing for me to do), and that I must stop trying to control people and events. Thanks!


Member: josh c
Location: west virgina
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 11:00:10

Comments

hi im josh and im a alcoholic im verry greatfull for whot the program has given me im 17 and i do not see many people my age in this program just rember no matter your age you can have a drinking problem

thanks


Member: josh c
Location: west virgina
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 11:00:16

Comments

hi im josh and im a alcoholic im verry greatfull for whot the program has given me im 17 and i do not see many people my age in this program just rember no matter your age you can have a drinking problem

thanks


Member: josh c
Location: west virgina
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 11:00:24

Comments

hi im josh and im a alcoholic im verry greatfull for whot the program has given me im 17 and i do not see many people my age in this program just rember no matter your age you can have a drinking problem

thanks


Member: josh c
Location: west virgina
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 11:00:31

Comments

hi im josh and im a alcoholic im verry greatfull for whot the program has given me im 17 and i do not see many people my age in this program just rember no matter your age you can have a drinking problem

thanks


Member: Linda K.
Location: Germany
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 11:48:45

Comments

Hi everyone...Linda, truelly alcoholic. For me alot of humility comes from being unselfish. When I think mostly about what I want without considering the effects of that on others, I am more or less saying that I am most important and nothing else matters. While realizing that yes we must take care of ourselves, we have to do so keeping in mind that we have admitted we are powerless over certain things, mainly alcohol. For me this means daily that I reflect on the ways of others and try harder to see where they are coming from..not judging them or in any way feeling superior to them. And to Josh I can say that when I was 17 I was well into my alcoholism and sure had no idea at that time just what would happen to me if I continued in that lifestyle. Well I sure know now :) and can say that it takes some people longer than others and some never get it at all and even die from this....so I was real glad to read your post. I also would like to mention to Gary and Leonard that it's good to hear about the "loner" program in action because just recently this was suggested to me. There are no meetings close to me either and have been asking for advice in this area. So I guess I have to wait for the snail-mail process and continue to be ever grateful for the wonderful people I have found here and around the internet! Take care all.....


Member: Amy W.
Location: Indiana
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 12:04:55

Comments

to Josh C. I am 18 and I have been an addict most of my life. I agree that it is difficult to find young people who are in the program. Either thay have not gotten there yet or they are too arrogant to help themselves. God knows there are alot out there who need help. I have been in the program for about 3 years and I have had my share of set backs. Just remember how it was and what your future would be like if you continue to drink. Thanks XOXOXO and to Clayton S. You are not lost, thank you for your feedback. I am grateful for all you alcoholics out there, without you I'd be dead.


Member: lauren
Location: chesapeake bay
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 12:30:30

Comments

hi evryone - lauren, alcoholic. Humility to me means that i don't know everything and i am willing to listen, follow directons and ASK FOR HELP (probably the hardest thing for me). AA taught me to REACH OUT and let people know what's going on - but sometimes i really have to hurt to do it. I got sober on 3/3/80 and it is still hard sometimes - Progress not perfection!


Member: Joanne
Location: Buffalo, NY
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 12:39:51

Comments

I like the definition of humility found in Hazelden's "The Little Red Book" (1957) which says: A true evaluation of conditions as they are; willingness to face facts; recognition of our alcoholic status; freedom from false pride and arrogance; understanding of the proper relationship between ourselves and a Higher Power, between ourselves and our fellowman; acceptance and practice of this relationship throughout every 24 hour period


Member: Nikki B
Location: Pocono's PA
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 12:49:39

Comments

Hi everyone, I am Nikki B. a recovering alcoholic. I love this topic. Humility has taught me that I am not the Higher Power and there is one that can do it all and it doesn't have to be me. Life is so much better when you realize that humbling yourself does not mean humiliating yourself.

The force out there in the Universe is there for us to converse with and help us find a better way of life. He helped me admit that there was a problem in my life and it was me. I work hard on myself in order to live my life the way that God would want me to and not to live in Nikki's world.

Thanks for this topic. My humbling comes from be able to do unto others as I would want them to do unto me, and to know that God wants it that way.

Thanks for letting me share.


Member: David
Location: NJ
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 13:04:24

Comments

Hi everyone, David alcoholic.

It's agree with all the posts on humility. One thing I remember my sponser telling me was that he learned not to take himself to seriously. He had about 30 years sobriety after being the "town drunk" and living under the local bridge. His name was Art -- when I met him, Art was about 80 and taking college courses for the fun of it. Art said life can be a serious matter, but that I should learn not to take myself to seriously. Art said he always remembered how his life was when he was drinking and that helped him from getting too upset with any of lifes hassles in sobriety - Art was really grateful to AA for letting him regain his life. His advice has helped me with my humility along my journey in life and sobriety.


Member: richaard.m
Location: sarasota,florida
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 13:05:30

Comments

we must have a child like faith in order to achieve humility. as an adult we always want to take control..be in charge of our selves........old enough to drink( I Am a........................n alcoholic my name is richard......richard m.) etc... etc.. ad nauseum.....page 449is a good one to stay humble.. as soon as i begin to live the wrong way......there goes the humility and i become more knowledgeable than those around me ...an elder statesman if you will!!!!!! time after time , people comeing back said tey quit going to meetings..loss of humbleness......becomeing better than the rest of my fellows..etc ....etc. well i hpe this helps some body else.it helps me to stay focused.....


Member: Paul Q
Location: Toronto, ON
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 13:30:15

Comments

If there is two GOD's one is going to get drunk..........stay humble.......

I drank after 12 1/2 yrs in this wonderful fellowship.because I lost my humility.....

I see alot of sick people going on about time in the program your setting yourself up...

Love and Service Paul Quigley


Member: Sandy
Location: Indy, In
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 14:00:38

Comments

Hi Sandy/alki. humility to means letting go and letting god Realizing I am not in control over my life or anyone elses.It means I have to set back and let someone else take care of things because I haven't a clue how to. It means I have to ask people for help when I don't want.It has taken me a long time to see that.

Thanks for sharing everyone! Sandy


Member: Sandy
Location: Indy, In
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 14:00:48

Comments

Hi Sandy/alki. humility to means letting go and letting god Realizing I am not in control over my life or anyone elses.It means I have to set back and let someone else take care of things because I haven't a clue how to. It means I have to ask people for help when I don't want.It has taken me a long time to see that.

Thanks for sharing everyone! Sandy


Member: Jessica F.
Location: Dallas, TX
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 14:03:12

Comments

Thank you for the wonderful things said. With work, it's often hard to make a meeting. I think humility for me, was learning that I am not in control. I need to repeat that several times a day. I need to lean on my HP. I need to let go and let god. I need to remember to be grateful for the small things... humility is not being in charge and being okay with that. Thank you so much for letting me in your meeting. It's nice to know it's here when I can't make it to my group.


Member: Don N
Location: Clear Lake, Iowa
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 14:20:35

Comments

Hi my name is Don and I`m an alcoholic. I found a little bit of humilty the first time I said that at an AA Meeting and have been getting a little more each time I repeat that.Also doing something for someone else and not expecting a Thank You. If I expect a Thank You then I think I`m doing it for the wrong reason. Welcome to the young people. We were all young once.


Member: Bill T.
Location: MD Easter Shore
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 16:08:23

Comments

Name is Bill and I am an alcoholic. My old world mother said the word with a silent "h" - "William you've got to learn to be umble and not put on airs." Lord did I hate it when she said that to me - what the heck did she know! Turns out her old world wisdom was right on target. After a thirty year drinking career putting on a lot of "airs" I came to AA full of arrogance, but then I learned about surrender and that made me aware of humility which I pretty much practice on a daily basis (as best I can) because to do otherwise causes me the pain and frustration of once again learning the lesson of humiliation - and that I don't neeed.


Member: Jim H
Location: Lebanon Pa.
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 18:26:47

Comments

Hi every one ! I am an alcoholic named Jim Humility to me is not knowing How this program works, but knowing it Does work. How it works isn't important to me today. And as some one said before me, I'm not my own H.P.! You all are! And for that I am greatful. You all can have a meeting with out me. But I can not have one with out you.


Member: Dale S.
Location: California
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 19:17:21

Comments

Humility to me means finding out exactly who I am and being willing enough and courageous to change and get rid of the bad parts. An deeper humility begins when I find out I can not possibly do it by myself. When I finally admit that I need help and allow others to help me I have begun on the course of humility. When God is was approached it brought me to a new level of humility asking something I didn't understand to do what ever he pleased with me. I could ask God for specific thing to be fixed in me but I couldn't out guess God. This brings me right back to the steps. Working on these is a perfect use of my willpower on my defects. I can not pray wish hope and cry my way into the good life. Like a spoiled child crying for candy. I must accept Gods will. I must pray to God to grant me the knowledge of his will. As far as I can see the principles in the Big Book are about as close, as I can know what's God 's will is for me. Tomorrow may change but for today I will try to follow the teachings in the Big Book as best as I can. Humble is knowing that without God I'm just a face down in the gutter drunk at my best.


Member: charlie o.
Location: n.c.
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 19:40:34

Comments

Hi! Ya'll I'm Charlie an ALCOHOLIC, Humility to me is knowing that GOD's grace gives me hope that guys like me are nothing without him. Now I must grow in that grace. Thanks i have so far to go help me get there


Member: Bruce A.
Location: Bovard, PA
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 20:32:26

Comments

Hi I am Appoll I am an alcoholic. I agree with doing something nice for someone else and not telling anybody about it. To humble ourselves before our Higher Power is awesome!! I always thought I was or had the power. After being sober for 15 yrs. and working the 12 steps I have found the power for living and is not I. We can do this sobriety if we stick together. LOVE you all ,Appollo


Member: Jim L.
Location: France
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 21:09:45

Comments

Thanks for all of the shares. I don't have access to daily meetings any more because of where I live (in the countryside in France) so it sure helps to have this kind of access to other AA's. Humility to me includes the ability to admit I need help. With 5 1/2 years of sobriety, I've recently come off of my pink cloud and have experienced my toughest stretch. By the grace of God, I've not picked up a drink. Instead, I've reached-out to the fellowship and it has been there for me, once again just like when I first came in. And I know that it, just like my Higher Power, will always be there for me. For that I am grateful. Thanks.


Member: Kathy W
Location: Midwest
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 21:33:12

Comments

I don't know a whole lot about humility. But I am learning more every day in the program and by reading all of your great comments. One thing I do know about humility is...that if you don't have it you will HUMILIATE yourself, time and time again. I got sick and tired of humiliating myself trying to pretend like I haD ALL the power and I had ALL the answers...that's when I had to humble myself and take "Step ZERO" => Don't drink, go to meetings, and ASK SOMEONE FOR HELP.

Thanks for "listening"


Member: Angie G.
Location: Murrieta, CA
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 22:30:31

Comments

Hi guys, I just signed up to the internet and am very pleasantly surprised that I can connect to A.A.! I have a couple of years sobriety, yet have only been working the program for roughly 6 months. I would not recommend this method to anyone. Being "out-there" without being in a program of recovery is an awful dark place to be. Sure, the alcohol was eliminated from my life, which is a good thing, yet all the "stuff" inside that I always tried to bury or numb-out (even with food) was and still is there. I have worked the steps diligintly and honestly this time (I have been in A.A. in the past) and it is a tough road. I am seeing so many things in myself that need improvement. Not always easy to look at, but at least after doing my 4th and 5th step I have something emotionally and psychologically tangible to see and therefore be able to work towards change and growth. Before I was running away and isolating from everything around me. For the first time ever, I am taking a chance and trusting in God and the people he has put in my life. I just keep coming back!


Member: Pogue M.
Location: Jersey
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 23:18:14

Comments

Good topic. I guess the humility I need to work on is this: how do I treat a person on the phone who is annoying the @#!* out of me? Especially if I am not getting what I want? I've caught myself being an awful bully and later it makes me sad. That's the test, I think, how we treat people who can't "get us back." TAke care guys, Pogue M.


Member: Ruthie G.
Location: Phoenix
Date: 04 Jan 1999
Time: 23:47:53

Comments

My name is Ruthie, and Im and alcoholic and addict- Humility has alot to do with remaining teachable. I have been thru stages in sobriety where I think that I have heard it all and that there is no more to know and then, WHAM, I'm in trouble.

The biggest growth points of my life where when I was confused and searching, because at that point I became willing to do anything to healthy and well. That is humilty. Confused and searching is a very good place to be. With Love, Ruthie


Member: Christine M.
Location: Bayv
Date: 05 Jan 1999
Time: 00:29:38

Comments

Hi, my name is Christine and I am alcoholic.

Humility is what I get when I am not looking for it. I've heard it said that it is about being "right sized". For me humility comes when I am sitting in a meeting, NINE years sober, listening to some woman describe how some broad in AA that she thought was her friend tried to sleep with her husband and realizing....that that was me....7 or 8 years ago. Of course, I had never seen it quite that way before and could always justify my actions to myself, "they were broken up at the time...", but God knows when I am ready to be open minded and provides with the light to see my character defects and amends that need to be made, when I am able to make them. I am a changed person due to this program and humility is one of the things that I have today, which has replaced the humiliation that I had for so many years.

In Love and Peace,

Christine M.


Member: Ali B.
Location: Nashua, NH
Date: 05 Jan 1999
Time: 00:43:48

Comments

Humility... hmm, for a recovering alcoholic/addict such as I, means that I can take responsiblity when I am wrong,admitt that it is not with in my power when I am not in "control" of particular persons, places or things. Knowing that my life is really none of my business, allow my God to do the driving. Like times when I struggle with the steering (relenquishing my true destination for what I "think" I want...not what I need) Letting Go not Letting EGO. Thanks for being there everyone along my happy road to destiny!


Member: lemon d.
Location: philadelphia
Date: 05 Jan 1999
Time: 00:58:58

Comments

hi everyone, my name is lemon drop and i am an alcoholic. my ability to achieve humility is putting my schemes in the past and letting GOD will my way, day by day, come what may, at last.


Member: Valerie V.
Location: Santa Rosa, CA
Date: 05 Jan 1999
Time: 02:07:35

Comments

Hi, my name is Valerie, I am an alcoholic. Welcome to the newcomers, you're in the right place. Humility is a great topic after all the heady holiday stuff. I am so full of all the attention I received over the past week, presents and all. Thank you Pogue, for your comment "If there are 2 gods, one will get drunk". I heard a definition of humility in a meeting once, and it made me laugh so hard. It is that my only job here is to be human - and not take it personally! this has really helped me to keep things in perspective. Other things that work for me are doing service work. There's nothing like cleaning the ashtrays for a bunch of ungrateful alcoholics when you don't smoke. Or going to a detox center to share your fabulous story and years of sobriety with people who can barely sit up, let alone appreciate all that. Or trying to buy fast food for the guy in a drunken coma outside, only to have him tell you to *%$# !**. Or calling a business meeting to elect a new coffee maker because the present one doesn't show up in time to make coffee - only to have that person show up, cop a resentment, and walk out. The thought occurs that no matter how much we may all want real coffee instead of instant, possibly that was the only thing bringing that person to the meeting. I welcome humility today when it comes knocking, because it is a reminder that I am not the Higher Power, and it doesn't matter how long I've been sober. When humility visits me, I have an opportunity to really understand that I am a tiny piece of the whole in a much different way than when I stand on the beach, or see stars in the night sky. Humility reminds me that my part is to keep my side of the street clean, only my side, and no one elses. It reminds me that I may not have the answer, no matter how badly I want to give it away. And it allows me to keep coming back, because I don't know it all. Thanks for listening.


Member: tony g
Location: ma
Date: 05 Jan 1999
Time: 02:40:33

Comments

tony,alcoholic.my humility runs neck and neck with honesty,because when i really face the facts,totally honest,i find out and can tell someone else,that i do have fears,that their are things i can"t do on mere determination alone.that i need that person too,and others.when i exersize,humility and honesty,it makes me feel great,relaxed,just being one of. thanks for the topic. keep it simple......


Member: Virginia
Location: California
Date: 05 Jan 1999
Time: 04:52:26

Comments

Hello , My name if Virginia and I am a real Alcoholic. Humility was and Is A hard one for me . I turn my will and myself over to the care of God sometimes hourly!!! And I am now willing to listen and try to see myself as I really am. No More, the "Egotist hiding under false guiles. My Road has gotten alot narrower along this path, (I laugh when I think of what I was like when I first came in...) But at the same time with Humility comes a real since of freedom when I finally let go. Also, the inner calm is incomparable to what I had when I was running my life on my own will. "Self Will run Riot" Today, I earnestly Listen, to both my HP, and to my sponser and try to accept AND acknowledge the truth about myself. (And yes sometimes is hurts and is embarasing, but you know what, Every one around me EXCEPT me already knows what ever it is that I am discovering about myself that I need to do more work on..... And when I announce "My new found "character defect" at a meeting, everyone just smiles.... Their again, the only one I have been fooling is myself.......... Humility is knowing exactly who and what I really am with the sincere desire of becoming who God wants me to be...... Am I making since??? Its late and I really needed to talk, Guess that means I need a meeting!!!!

See ya,


Member: Bonnie C - 5/30/80
Location: Seattle
Date: 05 Jan 1999
Time: 09:13:59

Comments

Hi extended family, bonnie/alcoholic here (((ROOM-HUG))) i truly love you drunks and druggies that hold my hand as i get my life back, thank you - thanks for the good topic ((chuck)) - Humility, as a wise woman once said to me, humility is just seeing life and yourself as you really are and remaining right sized in it. Not *false* humility as in "the longer I'm sober the less I know." why go to meetings? or do the steps? or get a sponsor? or study the big book or other AA literature? No its knowing my limitations and also my worths so I can help others & have quality in my life instead of making the same mistakes over and over again. I remember one time (15yrs sober) when I was being treated very badly by a friend, who happened to be in a lot of pain at the time, (her husb had just died) anyway I kept feeling this horrible gut feeling as she lashed out at me, I kept wondering what lesson was to be learned there & just as I was about to walk out and leave her alone, it hit me, this is how my children must have felt when I lashed out at them when my inner pain and frustration were at their peaks. seein myself as i really was, not as i would like to see myself. so that was another amends letter to each of my dear kids who didnt deserve how I had treated them as I didnt deserve how I was being treated at the time. but how was I ever to get in touch with that character defect and find some humility if I lived in delusion about being better than I actually was. feeling better than, once again separating me from my fellows. thanks for being here. Dear God please bless all who venture here, love and hugs, bon - bonzoc@webtv.net


Member: Bill H.
Location: Paradise,California
Date: 05 Jan 1999
Time: 11:02:50

Comments

Bill here....alcoholic and sober today by the grace of God."Humility"....great topic!I found humility face down guys,and you know that's not a bad position for me.I kinda view humility as the best judo position,it's kinda hard to get knocked down if your already there...lol.I also see humility as the center portion of a see-saw or the middle of a balance,it's that,that is between authority and responsiblity.This all may seem kinda vague to most of y'all,however my rest from alcoholism is in my higher power(God)and true justice and mercy,as well as humility are not things I practiced during my drinking days.Thank God I can start agreeing with Him!Thanks for the opportunity,may this be encouraging to all that come here. Bill


Member: Linda A.
Location: Az.
Date: 05 Jan 1999
Time: 12:07:25

Comments

Hi, I'm Linda and a alcoholic. It has been 7 years since finding a regular way to have a meeting. Humility, Yes. Only God has kept me sober these last seven years. Thank all of you for being here for me. Now maybe I can go start again to work tne A.A. program. God bless all of you.


Member: Pierre S.
Location: Grapevine, TX
Date: 05 Jan 1999
Time: 12:10:32

Comments

I'm an Alcoholic. My name is Pierre .

Wow ! I just read Dale's ( California ) post and it said exactly what I was feeling .

Humility is a bi-product of practicing the AA principals in my life . It's not something I can consciously work for, it's just another miraculous thing that happens, "as THE result..."

Thanks, Dale and all of you for being ther "in the solution " for me .

Best wishes for a Happy, sober and Blessed 1999 .


Member: Joe S.
Location: Virginia
Date: 05 Jan 1999
Time: 12:17:38

Comments

Inscription from plaque on Dr. Robert Smith's desk which to him best described ..Humility. "Perpetual quietness of heart. It is to have no trouble. It is never to be fretted or vexed, irritable or sore; to wonder at nothing that is done to me, to feel nothing done against me. It is to be at rest when nobody praises me, and when I am blamed or despised, it is to have a blessed home in myself where I can go in and shut the door and pray to my Father in secret and be at peace, as in a deep sea of calmness, when all around and about is seeming trouble." Office of Robert Holbrook Smith M.D. 28 Second National Bank Building Akron 3, Ohio


Member: Kathy F
Location: Carlisle,Ia
Date: 05 Jan 1999
Time: 12:24:03

Comments

Hi my name is Kathy and I am an alcoholic and a drug addict.

I heard or read somewhere.... Pride says "I Am" Humility says "God Is"

thanks


Member: Kat
Location: Utah
Date: 05 Jan 1999
Time: 13:29:33

Comments

Hi im Kat and im an alcololic.I guess being humble for me is staying out of the way of God and remembering I am not in control.I tend to forget that throughout the day, and when I try to control whats going on around me,thats when insanity steps in.I also have to be willing to do the action that is put in front of me. Thankyou God for my sobriety and thankyou all for being here.


Member: Judd S.
Location: New York
Date: 05 Jan 1999
Time: 15:13:28

Comments

I'm Judd and I'm an alcoholic. I felt humility when I first came to the rooms and saw people I knew. When I walked into the treatment facility and saw my aunt was the receptionist I also felt humility. It's a huge part of my recovery, it helps me to overcome obstacles and challenge a rough situation instead of running from it. Obstacles are what we see when we lose sight of our goal. Rome wasn't built in a day. Just some encouraging words for everyone. Thanks


Member: Teri F.
Location: Nashville, TN
Date: 05 Jan 1999
Time: 15:52:59

Comments

Teri here and an alcoholic. Just plain grateful this site is here. I'm at work and I am amazed I can get a "turbo charge" of WHATS REALLY IMPORTANT: Staying sober and not being a jerk. Thanks for all the fantastic shares about humility!


Member: S.
Location: Kiawah Island, SC
Date: 05 Jan 1999
Time: 18:28:06

Comments

Hello, I am Jeannette an alcoholic. Humility is knowing that I am wrong but that my H.P. still loves me no matter what I do. It is an instant of knowing that I am small but God is big. If my H.P. judged me on what I have done without his grace for me to be a better sober person, it would be the end. If I sincerely ask my H.P. for to take away my self-centerness and to remove my difficulties so that others may see my H.P.'s love and power through me, then I believe he will. It is a daily process and it is lived by faith and knowing that I am not in charge.


Member: Maxuel
Location: Murphy, NC
Date: 05 Jan 1999
Time: 22:13:35

Comments

When I was in the throes of my alcoholic disease, I had Humiliation. When I gave the bottle and decided to live differently, I was given the opportunity to be humbled. Humility is knowing I don't have any and acting as if I might.


Member: Laura D.
Location: Shreveport, LA
Date: 05 Jan 1999
Time: 22:31:06

Comments

Hi family! Just found ya'll tonight. Thanks for being here. I heard in a meeting once that an alcoholic is the only person in the world who can lie face down in a gutter and look down his nose at the rest of the world. I am trying to get myself out of the way each day and reach my hand out to another alcoholic. Service work is where humilitly starts for me.

To Josh, my first trip into AA was at 17yrs, I am 26 yrs old now and have 21 months sober. Guess I wasnt too young to be an alcoholic after all. Glad to see you here. Keep coming back. Laura D.


Member: Terry
Location:
Date: 05 Jan 1999
Time: 23:18:24

Comments

Hi everybody, Terry B here, grateful recovering alcoholic. I remember reading this when I was new to AA, didn't understand it then, but boy do I now: "When we look back, we realize that the things which came to us when we put ourselves in God's hands were better than anything we could have planned." BB pg 100. I have really enjoyed reading everyone's ES&H. Wish everyone a sober 24.


Member: Terry  B
Location: WV
Date: 05 Jan 1999
Time: 23:18:49

Comments

Hi everybody, Terry B here, grateful recovering alcoholic. I remember reading this when I was new to AA, didn't understand it then, but boy do I now: "When we look back, we realize that the things which came to us when we put ourselves in God's hands were better than anything we could have planned." BB pg 100. I have really enjoyed reading everyone's ES&H. Wish everyone a sober 24.


Member: Jeff W
Location: State of Washington
Date: 06 Jan 1999
Time: 00:19:10

Comments

My sponsor taught me that humility is recognizing that my higher power and AA is responsible for my recovery. That the only thing that seperates myself from the still suffering alcoholic is the first drink. Lastly, that there is a little bit of good in the worst of us and a little bit of bad in the best of us.


Member: PattiK
Location: Woodstock
Date: 06 Jan 1999
Time: 00:26:00

Comments

Hi I'm PattiK, grateful recovering alcoholic. For me humility is letting go of control, because of course, like a good drunk I always had to have control of everything and everybody,and at times I still try to take over. Humility is also taking other peoples suggestions in and out of AA, understanding that maybe someone besides me knows something, it's also asking for and accepting help; from God, from my sponser and from my friends in the program. I have 2 years and 4 months sober, I haven't been to a meeting since I celebrated 2 until tonight. Humility tonight was sharing that in a meeting and that without meetings I've been getting too far into my own head and getting really miserable.

I'm really grateful that all of you are out there to share your experience, your knowledge and your ideas. This also keeps me out of my head. Listening is also a part of humility.

To Josh. When I was 17 I had my first black out and it took me another 30 years to get here. I'm so happy to see that young people are getting in these days before they proceed to try to destroy their life like I did. But through God's grace here I am fully intact and getting humble.

Thanks for letting me share and Happy sober New Year to everyone.


Member: Lisa S.
Location: Phila Pa
Date: 06 Jan 1999
Time: 11:25:06

Comments

Hi,Im Lisa & I'm an alcoholic.For me humility means surrendering daily to God,my sponsor & the program.I'm so grateful I found this meeting because today humility also means surrendering to my Dr. too & trusting that he knows more than me.This program ha

s taught me so much.Today I can say I don't know anything & be ok with that because God's in charge not me.I'm glad you were here today or I would be working out & disobeying the Dr.'s orders.Thanks.Keep coming back it works if you live it!!!


Member: Vangie H
Location: Alberta, Canada
Date: 06 Jan 1999
Time: 13:17:38

Comments

Hi, my name is vangie and I am an alcoholic. It has been four years since I have said those words. After being an active recovering alcoholic for 14 years, I thought I could control that first drink. It has taken four years to undo 14. My major loss has been humility and the contact with my Higher power. This has been a long meeting and I needed every word. My first meeting in R/T will be Friday evening and I can't wait. Some of you may recall ma as Vangie S. but many changes are made from time to time. Humility to me is complete surrender and very different from humiliation. I have taken back the drivers seat and its hard. This time I will listen a little harder with a more open mind and not loose touch with my sponser. I thank you all for sharing and will see you next week, God Willing. Vangie


Member: Chris B.
Location: Ventura,Ca
Date: 06 Jan 1999
Time: 17:58:09

Comments

My best thinking got me here. Did you hear about the guy who was given a gold button for having so much humility?, when he wore it to the next meeting they took it back!!! Anyway, humility takes practice, and more practice. Center stage is for the "Actor", I try to be a doer, one of many, part of the group. Quite a change for an egomaniac with an inferiority complex.


Member: Bitsey
Location: CA
Date: 06 Jan 1999
Time: 19:23:29

Comments

My name is Bitsey and I am an Alchohalic. I now have 12 daysof sobriety. Today I am sober. I needed to touch bases here because I know I won't get to F2F soon. I do have phone numbers. I do have my Higher Power. I even made it through New Years! What a miracle! This has been my most unconsious attempt to stay sober. And so far the best. At this point i just keep repeating step one. Every time the thought even enters my mind I am Powerless over alchohal. My life IS unmanagelble. As many times a day as it takes. Thanks


Member: Leslie P
Location: Chicago Illinois
Date: 06 Jan 1999
Time: 20:07:07

Comments

Welcome Bitsey! You have humility honey! Our Higher Power gives us humility! It only gets better. Keep comin back. We will love you till you can love yourself. Try taping this prayer to your bathroom mirror. It helped me stay humble, and let me know that I had (have) a loving God as I understand him.:) Good morning! This is God! I'll take over from here, so RELAX and have a good day! I love you!


Member: Tom D.
Location: Tilton, NH
Date: 06 Jan 1999
Time: 22:03:02

Comments

Hi, I'm Tom, an alcoholic/addict. My first sponsor told me that if I thought I was humble I wasn't. God, that killed me. Today being humble means not living in fear of the plans my HP has for me, but rather to know and accept that I don't know what is best for me, so I should just take what HP gives me, a day at a time. When I surrender fear and really try to see what it is that I am supposed to be learning today (using steps 3,7,11) that I am OK, God and AA love me, and that everything will be alright.

Humility is also recognizing and accepting what I have a talent for and not needing to tell anybody about it. It is also recognizing my faults and not beating the ever living crap out of myself. I'm not the best and not the worst. Just a garden variety drunk like you all. Thanks for letting me share.


Member: RJ
Location: Georgia
Date: 06 Jan 1999
Time: 22:54:16

Comments

Does anyone know of the treatment center Penfield This pertains to Georgia. I am preparing to go and need some assistance,


Member: RJ
Location: Georgia
Date: 06 Jan 1999
Time: 22:58:32

Comments

Does anyone know of the treatment center Penfield This pertains to Georgia. I am preparing to go and need some assistance,


Member: Debbie C
Location: Colordao
Date: 06 Jan 1999
Time: 23:35:03

Comments

Hi, Debbie, alcoholic here. As with everything in my life, I seem to go from one extreme to the other before I reach a balance. I just got off of the phone with my sponsor who called me from Chicago to remind me what I was like when I first walked in these doors. You see, I am coming up on 16 years in a few days and she makes it a point to call me every year and make me vividly remember my last drunk. It is necessary, she says, because the further away I get from my last drunk, the closer I get to my next. Makes sense to me cuz I can get very complacent.

Now on to humility! I walked in these doors with a huge chip on my shoulder and had no use for humility. To me it meant "being a whimp." Then I went to the oppposite extreme, after a few months sober, and became a "living door mat." I finally reached my balance when my sponsor told me that humility means teachability. It means that I am open enough to see new avenues in this struggle called life and that I am willing to travel along those paths as they are presented to me and learn the lessons offered on the way. It does not mean that I have to settle for less than what God wants for me. And my sponsor reminds me often that all God wants for me is JOY and HAPPINESS. Now, the word humility means "having courage & strength" and then being thankful for the experience that comes from my "CHOICES."

Thanks for being here and letting me share.


Member: Chuck le c
Location: Yreka, calif
Date: 07 Jan 1999
Time: 00:45:37

Comments

my name is Chuck and I am an alcoholic. i have been living this way of life since august of 1965 I live with humility I am only alive because God must of seen something to spare me for. The only way you can get anything from the program is to put something back. As we say you have to give it away to keep it. Why when we first come here we feel so guilty? i was and for the first few years I felt guilty untill I found God as i understood him and it freed me for some more input from him. I live a life totaly now. I haven't had a drunk puke on me in a lot of years.Haven't used the old karo syrup and orange juice hiball in a lot of years ( helps when real new sufering ) little karo lots o.j. this is humility. in my time all the twelve step calls and work have resulted in MY SOBRIETY . They were gifts for me. So if you ever get a twelve step call feel lucky you got a chance to keep your sobriety. A.A. doesn't give anything you have to earn by working with the best drunks in the world US.


Member: Shannon Z
Location: Winnipeg;Canada
Date: 07 Jan 1999
Time: 09:53:38

Comments


Member: Shannon Z
Location: Winnipeg; Canada
Date: 07 Jan 1999
Time: 10:03:30

Comments

I have just signed on to the net. It is so nice to speek to people in recovery.I really enjoyed everyones comments.Someone told me As soon as you think you have humility ...Thats when you know you Dont.Thanks for letting me share.


Member: Paul B
Location: Ontario
Date: 07 Jan 1999
Time: 13:25:07

Comments

Hi Paul B ALCOHOLIC Cambridge,Ont

I believe for me that humility is a byproduct of living my life as God truely meant it to be. When I become judgemental or seek to be acknowlegded for my actions, I find no humility, rather I find self centered,ego centric Paul making a mess of things. Humility and the ability to be humble are not easy for me. I was always seeking the affirmation of others. When I seek this of myself I believe I attain some measure humility. God Bless


Member: Vangie H
Location: St.Paul, AB. Can
Date: 07 Jan 1999
Time: 15:00:45

Comments

Hi....My name is Vangie H and another day dry, won't say sober yet because my guts still have gravity mixedup. I have returned to the practice I used in the past to practice humility. Each and everyday I will do something for someone, even if I don,t know them, something good. At times I have only been able to force a smile at someone on the street or a wave from the car. The smile in return used to give me a few more hrs of "warm feeling". Now I'm not supposed to tell because they don't count if I do, oh well I'll start today again *smile* have a God Blessed day. Bitsey of CA::: each day will get better, your next footsep is the first step to a wounderful new life. Hang on it was worth it for 14 years and then I got lazy, I'm back and God willing to stay. I got you by the hand....


Member: Kathy T.
Location: North Carolina
Date: 07 Jan 1999
Time: 15:01:37

Comments

considering this is my first day at admitting that I am an alcoholic, humility to me is the fact that I finally could admit it.


Member: Rob K.
Location: Binghamton, NY
Date: 07 Jan 1999
Time: 16:09:21

Comments

The only thing I know is that I can not stay sober on my own and need the people in the meetings and in the program.


Member: Jay D.
Location: N. Adams MA.
Date: 07 Jan 1999
Time: 16:53:33

Comments

Hi Everyone, (hey Jim R.) My name is Jay, and I am an alcoholic, and I did not have to Drink today! I was reading through some of the discussions of the topic HUMILITY. I've read a lot of good discussions, however my experience and what I believe HUMILITY to be today is, to share who and what I am. Another words, if I can be an asshole from time to time then I need to share in meetings that I am an asshole and have an honest desire to work towards changing that about myself through the 12 steps and sponsorship. Because I am still capable of doing today what I have done in my drinking. By sharing who and what I am in the program that enables me not to do some of the things that I have done in my drinking.

P.S. Remember share honestly even though we are all pathological liars. Tazie6233@aol


Member: Garrett S
Location: Seattle
Date: 07 Jan 1999
Time: 17:26:43

Comments

Garrett alcoholic. Last week I posted on as saying meerly that I was greatful for this meeting. After 14 years coming in and out of A.A. I considered myself hopeless. I was ready to die.

After stumbling accross this meeting and reading other peoples stories and coments about getting fucked-up(I hate the word 'relaps'). I decided to give A.A. one more shot. Since then I have gone to two meetings a day,and spent most of the rest of my time in this meeting or reading (and following the instructions of) the big book and 12x12. It's working! It will continue to work as long as I remain humble enough to compleatly give my-self to this simple program. And for me it all starts with being honest with my-self.(what happens when I drink? Do I want that all back and worse?) God help me. I want to sincerly thank every one who has shared in the past couple weeks. Without you I dont know if I would even be alive right now. I've been sober 10 days. Thank-you A.A. Thank-you H.P. O.D.A.A.T.


Member: Tom A.
Location: Carlisle, AR
Date: 07 Jan 1999
Time: 18:05:29

Comments

Well it is another Thursday and I have been reading the posts on HUMILITY and I wish to thank Chuck K. down there in Texas for suggesting this topic. My name is Tom A. and I am a grateful reasonably sober alcoholic today by the grace of God and this wonderful fellowship. My sobriety date is July 25 , 1960 and I am an old timer in this program, but I'm still learning and I am thankful for that. I appreaciate all the posts and I will not disreagard any of the stuff, because that may just the thing that will help to stay sober one day at a time.

I have participated in many discussions on HUMILITY and everytime the topic comes up I return to AA's second Big Book, Websters Dictionary and I am once again overwhelmed by all the definitions I find there, infact I become confused. I would like to share some thoughts that alert me to what Humility isn't.

There was a publication that GSO put out for use by the Fellowship and for some reason they discontinued it. It was a colorful publication with the title "AA DRY DRUNK" and it consisted of eight pages shaped like whiskey bottles and then described each drink in a particular bottle. 1. ANGER (TNT Special), 2. CRITCISM (Home Brewed Dissension), 3. DISHONESTY (Double-Crossers Highball), 4.FEAR (AA Jitters), 5. INTOLERANCE (Unadulturated Sourpuss Juice), 6. JEALOUSY (Dynamite Cocktail), 7. RESENTMENT (AA Rotgut), and 8. SELF-PITY, (The Crying Jag of AA).

If any of these attitudes are if my daily life there anint NO HUMILITY.

Thanks Group! I love all of you and everyone should try Karo syrup warm water or Karo syrup and orange juice.

God Bless - Tom A. ate@gte.net


Member: Bob Z.
Location: Cleveland OH
Date: 07 Jan 1999
Time: 18:25:45

Comments

Humility, for me, is being aware of my shortcomings. It is realizing that I am not the center of the universe, that there is a God, and I'm not Him! HUMILITY PRAYER Lord, I am far too much influenced by what people think of me. Which means that I am always pretending to be richer or smarter or nicer then I really am. Please prevent me from trying to attract attention. Don't let me gloat over praise on the one hand or be discouraged by critisism on the other. Nor let me waste time weaving imaginary situations in which the most heroic, charming, witty person is myself. Show me how to be humble of heart like you.

God Bless...OutOfSelf@aol.com


Member: Buck
Location: Albuquerque, NM
Date: 07 Jan 1999
Time: 19:28:15

Comments

My name is Buck, an alcoholic.

Humility can be when I get too big for my britches, my HP helps me by pulling them down.


Member: Bonnie W
Location:
Date: 07 Jan 1999
Time: 20:51:03

Comments

Hi. I would like to know where I can find the info on "Yesterday, Today & Tomorrow"?


Member: mike d
Location: illinois
Date: 07 Jan 1999
Time: 21:34:41

Comments

my name is mike and i'm an alcoholic, just like staying sober is contingent on my spritual condition so i think is my humilty. If i'm right with my God then chances are i am right with my fellows. it seeems to take consious effort for me right action leads to right living thanks for letting me share


Member: Roger
Location: Ontario
Date: 07 Jan 1999
Time: 22:00:24

Comments

Hi there,I'm Roger alkie and addict.Bonnie I'm not sure if this is what you want for sure, but maybe try RECOVERY CORNER in Yahoo.


Member: Brenda A.
Location: (warm)Buellton,CA.
Date: 07 Jan 1999
Time: 22:10:59

Comments

Hello Everyone! Brenda Alcoholic... After letting go and letting GOD , I have found myself not expecting anything and in return, everything I got, was/is 100% more. When I finally stopped fighting, and asked for help, my life finally began. I dont ask for anything other than GODS help today, to guide me and do for others, leaving a helping hand out. (what a difference from my past life style). Knowing that I could'nt become who I am today with-out everyones help, has made me teachable. Leave the door open, even just alittle newcomers . Ya know, I am happy that I found this web-page. Thanks for letting me share. Brenda.


Member: JD
Location: California
Date: 07 Jan 1999
Time: 22:18:09

Comments

Hi, I'm an alcoholic, my name is JD. I stumbled accross a tape from Ted H. I love what he said: "Humility, is to become teachable". I listen to tapes often as about three years ago, the radio in my car died but the tape deck still works. I have listened to his tape many times but didn't remember the message until recently, when the topic of humility came up in a meeting. Thank God for all you people in AA who keep coming back. Don't leave before the miricle happens for you too. JD


Member: beth d.
Location: texas
Date: 07 Jan 1999
Time: 22:57:16

Comments

hi, beth, alcoholic, humility is a lesson that I need reminders of over and over and over, something to do with my hard head, but I'm grateful for every lesson because of the serenity that comes with it. When I get too into my own world and think my H.P. needs my help running the show, my serenity speeds away. Yet when I remember what I've learned in the program, I remember that letting go and asking for help from my H.P. and others doesn't mean failure and will give me success, then my serenity returns. It may just be on little things each day, but knowing He is there to hold me up when I can't has given me a new life, one filled with lessons I haven't always wanted to learn, but ones that have given me serenity. Thanks for reminding me that I need to always be willing to let go and LET GOD! Thanks for listening.


Member: Diana K.
Location: Troy, Ohio
Date: 07 Jan 1999
Time: 23:08:44

Comments

Hi. I'm Diana and I am an alcoholic. There have been many days before and in recovery that I have lost my understanding of humility. Today, I am truly grateful that GOD never forgets to remind me. Being a hard headed alcoholic, there are times the reminders have been like sledge hammers. This is my first meeting in a long while and I want to thank all of you for your comments. A special thanks to Valarie V. and Bonnie C.


Member: Clayton S
Location: SJCA
Date: 08 Jan 1999
Time: 01:35:21

Comments

Hello my name is Clayton and Im an alcoholic addict I have 32 days today.....

I read a lot of posts this evening and it seems to me that humility is interpreted in numerous ways like a higher power So I guess the point is to apply a definition which works... For me once again humility is the ability to be grateful and with the knowledge you all have imparted the ability to be rigorously honest with myself about myself?......


Member: Barbara c.
Location: Ventura, Calif.
Date: 08 Jan 1999
Time: 02:55:30

Comments


Member: Barbara C
Location: Ventura, Calif.
Date: 08 Jan 1999
Time: 02:57:29

Comments


Member: Ken B.
Location: Atlanta, GA
Date: 08 Jan 1999
Time: 03:04:44

Comments

Hi, I am Ken, a grateful recovering alcoholic. Humility is something I am working on, so I can let go of those resentments that want to drag me down. My friend has humility, a borderline doormat, but he found a new life and now everything is behind him. I want that, but I have to humble myself to say, "right, wrong, or indifferent, it's over now. Let go and live. Thank god for what I have left, I did not bottom out, and still have the tools to live a good life." My brother has 25 years. He says I have that new life, but I don't know it yet. I wish I were so sure. Ted Turner says if he had humility, he would be perfect. I guess that says it all. Thanks for letting me share. This is the greatest program in the world.


Member: Barbara Jean
Location: Ventura, Ca.
Date: 08 Jan 1999
Time: 03:09:03

Comments

Humility was the gift if sharing with some beautiful ladies who totaled 425 years at a birthday lunch. The privilage of presenting a 40 year medalion to a man who showed me by his power of example. He continues to show me that by cleaning of tables and being there for the new commers. The most self centered thing we can do is not say thank-you to God by continuing to be there for others. I pray as each day of sobrity passes that I never forget what and who gave me my second life. I am still teachable by the grace of God.


Member: Amy GC
Location: Switzerland
Date: 08 Jan 1999
Time: 07:51:26

Comments

Hey my name is Amy and I am an alcoholic. Humility, I guess you mean to be humbled...I was brought to my knees in a last hope prayer (rock bottom) when I somehow found myself in a treatment center, something I would have NEVER considered until my life fell apart. It does not have to go that far for everyone but for me it did. After I learned how to love again and be loved I began to recover andhope to continue another 24, LOVE, SwissMrs.


Member: Elizabeth L.
Location: New haven, Connecticut
Date: 08 Jan 1999
Time: 08:41:27

Comments

Hi - My name is Elizabeth and I am an alcoholic. I have and incredible amount of gratitude for this program, my God, and the gift given to me by that God. Humility to me means letting go of my ego, getting right sized, and remembering that I am not in charge. Humiliation was a familiar place for me before sobriety, but God in his decisive grace has removed that experience from my life. I am whole today because of many beautiful aspects of the program; I understand I can't, He can, so let Him. I have had the grace to have sponsors adn friends ot help me on this journey, and call me up on the carpet when necessary. The humility allows me to see, change, and grow. But we have to do the work or we will not get the results. Thanks for having this meeting available.


Member: Ed R.
Location: Penascola, Florida
Date: 08 Jan 1999
Time: 09:17:17

Comments

Hi,Family,my name is Ed and I am an alcoholic,it is by the grace of the loving God. That I found through the twelve steps of Alcoholics Anonymous,That I have found a solution to live by, free of Alcohol and Fear for the last seven years, and I will be eternally grateful to you, for bestowing this gift on me an allowing me to be a member of this great fellowship, Thanks ED R.


Member: Bitsey
Location: CA
Date: 08 Jan 1999
Time: 10:08:45

Comments

Hello my name is Bitsey and I am an Alchohalic. 2 weeks sober TODAY. I'm feeling a little stressed today and needed to check in. i was offered a new temporary position at my job. I was just settleing into my old position sober!!!! I had a 3 hour crash course in acc payable and when I left thought oh god i need a beer to calm down ( first thought of it in two weeks) I went to a meeting instead. Got grounded real fast and good. Feeling very ionadequate about new position and fear my old one won't be there when the fill in over . Fear has gotten me out there before. Talking to my higher power and have my list of numbers. By the grace of God I plan to be sober today fear or not! Thankyou for listening


Member: fayla   k   g 
Location: galena  ks
Date: 08 Jan 1999
Time: 11:02:56

Comments

fayla . alcoholic , when i find that im listing and careing about how someone else feels and not getting lost in my wonderful self , ha ha , i feel this is what its about , to be here if someone needs me , and share what i can it helps me to listen and care about what someone else feels , and i have to work on me hard every day im never going to be perfect , but im going to try and be the best i can be . love fayla k g


Member: KatE
Location: Orlando, Fl
Date: 08 Jan 1999
Time: 12:10:42

Comments

<html> <font color="red" size="6"><I>ME</I></font><br> vs.<br> we<P> <font color="red">Humiliated and alone I drank: "me, me, me!"</font><br> Humbled and together we stayed sober: "God, AA, and me = 'we'." </html>


Member: Jimmy S
Location: Wash DC
Date: 08 Jan 1999
Time: 12:45:16

Comments

The concept of humility became clear one day as I went to vote. Coming from the poll it dawned on the that my vote counted as "one," just as the vote cast by the teacher, the lawyer, the student, and the unemployed drunk. As I child of a loving HP I count as "one." No more, no less. And each of the other children count as "one." Humility is recoginizing that I human respect to each other person without regard for wealth, beauty, or ability to stay sober. I also owe myself, as a child of HP, respect and good care. Do I thus become a door mat for other? No, they owe me that human respect too, though some are not able to offer it. To care for myself is to stand up for myself. Without self care I will not stay sober; without sobriety I have little to offer any other "one." Thanks.


Member: Rich R (SRCP)
Location: Detroit (Have you driven a Ford lately?) Michigan
Date: 08 Jan 1999
Time: 14:02:14

Comments

Rich R, slowly recovering compulsive person, wow what a topic Chuck! And so many great great responses, thanks! I have a tendency to share from my head, rather than my heart. In fact, I even prefer to share from SOMEONE ELSE'S HEAD, I mean something I have heard someone else say that I really liked. So I guess that's what I'll do. Hopefully, one day, I'll be able to share directly from my heart. Anyway what I heard at a meeting which I haven't seen mentioned above yet is: "Humility is NOT thinking less of yourself. Humility is thinking of yourself LESS."


Member: MadelynB.
Location: Maryland
Date: 08 Jan 1999
Time: 15:52:11

Comments

Hi, my name is Madelyn and I'm an alcoholic. I fractured my knee and we had a snow storm so I'm pretty much inside all day. Someone helped me with humility when she explained that humility is knowing that each one of us has something special to offer and then acting on that knowledge. Everyone has something to offer, even the alcoholic who is still drinking. To Josh C. in West Virginia, the program is full of young people. I pray that neither you nor I ever have to take a legal drink. And thank you to Camino from CA and Paul from Toronto. I've been sober 10 years and sometimes I think that I'm supposed to be elevated above certain problems. But every morning I keep waking up an alcoholic and a humun being (damn!) But that's o.k., because without those circumstances I may not be as tight as I am with my higher power.


Member: STEVE L
Location: SPAIN
Date: 08 Jan 1999
Time: 17:01:58

Comments

HI IM STEVE I´M AN ALCOHOLIC THIS IS MY FIRST TIME ON THE NET NET UNSURE WHAT TO WRITE AFTER ALMOST THREE YEARS ON THE PROGRAM STILL GET STUCK FOR WORDS I THOUGHT HUMILITY WAS SOMETHING TO DO WITH THE WEATHER STILL STUGGLE WITH IT STILL WANT TO TELL THE WORLD WHEN I DO SOMETHING FOR SOMEONE ELSE BUT ITS GETTING A BIT BETTER LOVED READING THE SHARES THANKS


Member: Diane BF
Location: Northwest Hills of CT
Date: 08 Jan 1999
Time: 18:33:08

Comments

Hello Everyone! I'm Diane, an alcoholic, grateful to be in recovery since 4/11/98. Excellent topic Chuck! To me HUMILITY means realizing that I am not in control, no matter how much I want to be nor how hard I work at it. Clearly my Higher Power is in control of my sobriety today, because I couldn't do it myself. As I work through the Steps I am discovering that my Higher Power is in control of all aspects of my life... "Thy will, not mine"... Thank you for letting me share. Have a "sparkling 24"! AALove, Diane


Member: Sam J
Location: Tennessee
Date: 08 Jan 1999
Time: 18:53:08

Comments

Hi everyone. I'm an alcoholic and the name is Sam. Without the tiny bit of humility I have acquired, I would not be sober today. I have to work on this every day. I have learned several little things that work for me. Sometimes, at a discussion meeting, I will have something that I want to say, but in order to keep my ego in check, I will pass. I am very grateful for each AA anniversary that I have but I don't make a big deal of them. I give my Higher Power credit for my sobriety. All I did was surrender. Another thing that I do, even though I have been around for a few 24s is to try to always be a newcomer. The day that I become unteachable I will be in trouble. I don't know if any of you have this trouble or not, but I have noticed at meetings that the more I talk, the smarter I think I am. That if very dangerous for me. Thank you for being there, and God bless each and every one of you. My prayer is that each of you have a happy and peaceful sobriety.


Member: Bruce J.
Location: New Milford, CT
Date: 08 Jan 1999
Time: 18:55:25

Comments

Hi, my name is Bruce J. I'm an alcoholic. To me, early in recovery, Humility means that I am remaining sober not by my own doing, but through the gace of my higher power, whom I believe to be God.

Have been sober just shy of four months and have recently completed a 90 and 90.

I don't really know how or why, but this simple program works, if we alkies will let it. I have discovered that for the program to work, we must want what it has deep from within ourselves. No one can do it for us. We must do it.

Thanks for letting me share.


Member: BM
Location:
Date: 08 Jan 1999
Time: 19:05:36

Comments


Member: Judy P.
Location: Ontario, Canada
Date: 08 Jan 1999
Time: 21:56:08

Comments

Hi! everyone, my name is Judy and I am an alcoholic--just new to the internet and was so happy to find you all here. What a wonderful way to share with so many A.A. friends. On humility, for me, today, at least; means be willing to ask for help--something I could not do my entire life--and something I still find it hard to do today. First, I had to ask the help of A.A. to help me stay sober--that was my first step in humility; next was to continue to ask for help from my sponsor and my friends in A.A. when I was struggling--and that was hard, too; and and took great humilty for me--as I had never asked anyone for help---EVER! I still find it difficult to ask my friends for help; but I always remember to ask my Higher Power for help each and every day--it is the only way I stay sober and can build a new life for myself. It is great!, Josh, that you are here at 17--please stay and save yourself the 20 years of self-destruction that I went through-there is a better way to live--really live--and THIS is it! My prayers are with you all--thanks for listening.


Member: Judy P.
Location: Ontario, Canada
Date: 08 Jan 1999
Time: 21:56:34

Comments

Hi! everyone, my name is Judy and I am an alcoholic--just new to the internet and was so happy to find you all here. What a wonderful way to share with so many A.A. friends. On humility, for me, today, at least; means be willing to ask for help--something I could not do my entire life--and something I still find it hard to do today. First, I had to ask the help of A.A. to help me stay sober--that was my first step in humility; next was to continue to ask for help from my sponsor and my friends in A.A. when I was struggling--and that was hard, too; and and took great humilty for me--as I had never asked anyone for help---EVER! I still find it difficult to ask my friends for help; but I always remember to ask my Higher Power for help each and every day--it is the only way I stay sober and can build a new life for myself. It is great!, Josh, that you are here at 17--please stay and save yourself the 20 years of self-destruction that I went through-there is a better way to live--really live--and THIS is it! My prayers are with you all--thanks for listening.


Member: Robert
Location: Nashville
Date: 08 Jan 1999
Time: 23:10:29

Comments

Humility to me is knowing that you can teach me things about me that I never knew simply because of the common bond we share as a result of out alcoholism. Humility is learning to ask for advice and listening to it. Humility is understanding that the world does not rotate around me. Humility is doing things for my fellow man, preferably anonymously. Humility is learning to quit complaining so damn much and be thankful for what I have, such as a job to complain about. Sounds like for this alcoholic, humility and growing up are closely related.

Peace to all.


Member: Will H
Location: NJ
Date: 08 Jan 1999
Time: 23:30:02

Comments

Hi all, WillH/alccoholic. Humility for me was the first time I went to an AA meeting and had to say those words, "I'm an alcoholic." Thanks


Member: Dennis N.
Location: Denver
Date: 08 Jan 1999
Time: 23:38:44

Comments

Hi,i am Dennis and I am an alcolholic. this is my 1 st time at this meeting and I really appreciate you all being here. Thanks and God Bless.


Member: Janae' H.
Location: Kansas City
Date: 09 Jan 1999
Time: 00:47:57

Comments

Hi, I am Janae' and I am an alcoholic. This is my first time on the website and I am brousing around. Humility for me was sitting in jail for five days two different times in two different cities for two DUI'S. I do have to admit that that is really humiliating not to wake up and realize that I had a problem with my drinking before it came to that point. I chose to sober up, it was not court appointed. The humiliating part was to confront one of my judges telling him I had packed my toothbrush, so I was ready to do my time and get it out of the way. Needless to say, I have a vehicle in my driveway, but I cannot drive it for 10 more months!!! Every morning I walk to work humiliated that I cannot drive. I guess it can be depressing, but I don't let it get to me. I just realize that this is a learning lesson. I am now getting close to being 4 1/2 months cleand and sober. I am not humiliated anymore for not being able to remember what I did the night before, let alone waking up with a hangover. I know things will get even better. It has already started!! I do appreciate everyone listening and being here. HUMILIATION...such a good topic. Thanks a million and God Bless all of you!!!


Member: Vangie H
Location: St.Paul, AB, Can.
Date: 09 Jan 1999
Time: 00:58:24

Comments

Hi, my name is Vangie, and I made my first meeting tonight, that is r/t. Thank my HP for the members that I have met and will meet for my sobriety one day at a time depends on you to prop me up with what I need, .....How can you do it everytime? Tonight on the way to the meeting 35 min away all I could think about was choices, and much to my humility the chairman chaired on Choices, the tears started to run and I new I did not have to be in control any longer because I never was, I was flying blind with no guideness at all. Now I do. Thanks for helping my HP keep me sober another day. Good night and God Bless


Member: Jamie L.
Location: Belmar, NJ
Date: 09 Jan 1999
Time: 05:05:24

Comments

Hi Everyone! Thanks to all the posters. Your comments on this subject have really helped me today. My arrogance and self centeredness almost cost me my life in June. Today, I don't have all the answers and I need to ask for help. H.onesty, O.peness and W.illingness is about all the humility I can muster. Thanks to all and a happy and sober 24.


Member: Mary M.
Location: Phila Center City
Date: 09 Jan 1999
Time: 08:14:31

Comments

Mary and I am a recovering alcoholic No I have not read the comments above. I started writing on the coffee pot but got cut off. At this moment in time I want to drink. On the 20th I will have 13years and I want to drink so bad this week. More so yesterday as I attended the funeral of a friend who was diagnosed with cancer the same time I was. I have such anger at everything. Anyhow i am going to try to make a meeting today as i need some help and just needed a place to talk thank.


Member: Mary M.
Location: Phila Center City
Date: 09 Jan 1999
Time: 08:14:58

Comments

Mary and I am a recovering alcoholic No I have not read the comments above. I started writing on the coffee pot but got cut off. At this moment in time I want to drink. On the 20th I will have 13years and I want to drink so bad this week. More so yesterday as I attended the funeral of a friend who was diagnosed with cancer the same time I was. I have such anger at everything. Anyhow i am going to try to make a meeting today as i need some help and just needed a place to talk thank.


Member: Mike Z.
Location: Deposit, NY
Date: 09 Jan 1999
Time: 12:03:47

Comments

Hi I'm Mike and I'm an Alcoholic, Being humble today is something I practice almost always. It reminds me of where I came from six years ago(a place that I don't want to go back to!) Humiltity tells me not to get too full of myself, and do the right things in any situation, do nice things, say nice things, even when people don't deserve it. I keeps me from getting angry (at myself) and shows me that I am not the center of the universe. Or the all powerful being that I once thought I was. Thanks for letting me share. Keep it simple.


Member: Mike Z.
Location: Deposit, NY
Date: 09 Jan 1999
Time: 12:09:22

Comments

Mary, Drinking never solved anything for me. I only makes it worse. I have been sober for six years and I too have had hard times befall on me. I can remember good things tha have happened to me and the good people that I know today. I would never want to lose that. Please call somebody in the program it will save your life.


Member: Shelley G.
Location: Indy, IN
Date: 09 Jan 1999
Time: 13:58:31

Comments

I'm Shelley, an alcoholic, I enjoyed reading all of the comments on humility. I learned a great deal and I hope that I can put some of the ideas I read into practice in my own crazy life. I often get confused on the definition of humility. For me it's being teachable and putting other before myself. I used to always put myself first and sometimes still do. I am not perfect and I only want to continue to change and be that person that my HP is pushing me to be. Thanks again all, this was pretty cool. I had never been to a meeting on the net, but I'll be looking forward to again!


Member: LARRY M
Location: LANESBORO, MA
Date: 09 Jan 1999
Time: 15:27:29

Comments

Hi everyone my name is Larry and I'm a greatful recovering alcoholic. Due to injurys I was out of work 12 years... The sad fact is that after a few 24hrs sober I found out that the injurys had very little with my being out of work... since I have been sober 1 month away from 4 years I have went to college and worked the whole time now I'm starting a web site,,,, harmonycreations.com and for the first time in my 20+ years of drinking and drugs have finally realized that there is a life without being intoxicated..I AM GRATEFUL


Member: Susan
Location: MA
Date: 09 Jan 1999
Time: 15:44:25

Comments

Humility is the theme of Step 7, widely discussed in the AA Twelve Step and Tradition Book (the 12&12): Humbly Asked Him To Remove Our Shortcomings.

Without some degree of humility, our co-founder claims, we cannot stay sober at all...the basic ingredient of all humility, says Bill, is a desire to seek and do God's will..

This is humbling but not humiliating for me, having spent a lifetime trying to control everything... it sure is a new way of life, trying to do the humbling thing: "I can't. He can. I think I'll let Him."..but that is paradoxically my source of strength ...Love and Peace, Susan


Member: Rhia W
Location: Atlanta
Date: 09 Jan 1999
Time: 19:37:08

Comments

once heard a fellow w/more yrs sober than i have breathing define humility as "knowing who God is, knowing who i am, & knowing who i am in relation to God"... that's kinda stuck w/me ever since, esp since for a long time all i knew of a Higher Power is that there was definitely Something 'out there' who could conquer the obsessions & complusions, & it sure wasn't me!

RJ, sorry, don't know anything about Penfield, grew up in the same town as WillingWay, but didn't go the treatment center route... hopefully a fellow Georgian can help ya out... may HP guide u & give u what u need... *S


Member: DEWEY-ALCHOLIC
Location: CHICO CA.
Date: 09 Jan 1999
Time: 20:39:13

Comments

HUMILITY IS TO ME IS KNOWING I CAN'T DO THIS ALONE


Member: Kevin K
Location: Rochester, Wa  the everegreen state
Date: 10 Jan 1999
Time: 00:12:46

Comments

Hello ya all thanks for all the kind and knowledgeable words I like these meetings because i feel it gives people more time to think about what they say so its easier not to feel this humility also we can do this from the privacy of our own home god bless ya all.