Service Sponsorship Share By admin Posted on May 14, 2016 3 min read 0 Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Google+ Share on Reddit Share on Pinterest Share on Linkedin Share on Tumblr I believe the OA Fellowship tells us that all recovering members have two things in common: They have a sponsor, and they are willing to be a sponsor. Being a sponsor has given me so much more than I could ever give. I have been touched by the love and appreciation I receive from those I sponsor. In reaching out to them, I learn about me. Each person I sponsor gives me a chance to share my experience, strength, and hope. My own program and recovery are strengthened by this focus. Sponsorship also gives me an opportunity to give back what my sponsors have so selflessly given me. Often, someone I’m sponsoring shares an experience or struggle that reminds me how blessed I am to have found a way out of that struggle. By sharing my path with another, I strengthen my personal recovery. Recently, I expressed how much I, as a longtimer in the program, missed the closeness I felt with some friends over the years. Shortly after sharing this sadness at a meeting, I found myself given new chances to sponsor members with whom I felt a special connection—rather like God answering a prayer. When I felt fear over the time commitment involved in being a sponsor, I turned the issue over to my Higher Power. I trusted that my willingness would not lead to me being overwhelmed, and I prayed for the courage to be available to those who feel I can help them. So far, God has been doing a great job in this area of sponsorship. As a result, I now have the courage to turn over other issues to my Higher Power. My experience has taught me not to be afraid to sponsor another person. It might lead you to find your best self, a happy place to be! — Edited and reprinted from OA Today newsletter, St. Louis Bi-State Area Intergroup, February 2014
