I greet The Indwelling Presence of Love.
Today’s “Pay Forward” gift is – Tender Love And Care. I have experienced others handling me with care for one of two reasons. Before coming to A.A. and living its spiritual principles, most likely others would walk around me on egg shells, I was very sensitive, and I had a chip on my shoulder. I acted as if I was angry all the time. Then, I was blessed with a group of A.A.’s loving people, who took me in and made me part of service. Now the handling with care is an act of love. Sometimes new comers think their sponsor is being too hard on them, when told the truth about their disease. It is so important that we walk our talk. I witnessed those who had been driven by their self-centeredness give of themselves freely, their willingness to serve caused them to look for opportunities to share acts of kindness. I learned later their self-centeredness had been transformed by grace into an enlightened self-interest. It is better for us freely to give of ourselves; loving service, acts of kindness season our interactions with gentleness. It makes us more sensitive and tenderhearted, brings a willingness to say “yes” rather than “no” sharing tender love and care. In 1957, there were few new comers coming to Alcoholics Anonymous. We went out looking for a suffering alcoholic to share with; today we are blessed with great numbers coming in to join us. Thy Love, Thy Will be done.