My Life Jacket

I would like to explain how Lifeline has supported my recovery.

For me, Lifeline has been an important part of the Tool of literature. Its small size has made it very convenient to carry in my purse or suitcase, and it has been very convenient to use. I almost always have one in the car to read while I am waiting. I’ve used the online version too, but I’ve preferred the printed version.

The name Lifeline is very fitting because that is how I use it. Like a life jacket, it keeps me from going under in stormy times, and I know it will help me stay afloat the rest of the time. The short, focused articles have given me hope and fed me ideas that have encouraged me or given me a new perspective on problems and using the Tools. I’ve also appreciated the timely, topical shares. They’ve offered hope based on the writer’s personal experience and explained which Tools helped them through their struggle.

I’ve really appreciated the writing prompts in the For Discussion and Journaling department because writing is another Tool that is a personal favorite.

I’ve enjoyed the fact that Lifeline stories are written by OA members from all over the world. This has reminded me that I am not terminally unique, and I am never alone: I have a loving Higher Power and the OA Fellowship to support me.

Here are other things I have done with Lifeline:

• Given a subscription to a family member with anorexia.

• Given a subscription to my primary care doctor to be available in their waiting room.

• Given them to newcomers.

• Used them for discussions at literature meetings.

I want to express what a loss it will be for me knowing that Lifeline will never be printed again. I have plenty of back issues, but there won’t be any more with current topics. Right now, I would like to read one that refers to the global pandemic and how people in OA are dealing with it.

Thank you, Overeaters Anonymous, for blessing me with Lifeline for such a long period in my recovery. If it ever becomes available again, I will be thrilled.

— Susie