There are many different kinds of service, and most overlap in one way or another. For example, many would say that Service to one's Higher Power is by nature Service to Self, and vice versa. In order to provide Service Suggestions for well-rounded recovery, here are some thoughts on maintaining a more balanced life through service. Anonymous Service Anonymous Service does not always mean helping others invisibly. Clearly, if the recipient of our work is a significant other and the service suggestion is designed to help create a more harmonious relationship, it would be very difficult to remain absolutely anonymous. Instead, Anonymous Service can mean not feeding our own egos by trumpeting the success of our good deeds, not seeking credit or rewards, and definitely by avoiding holding a favor over someone's head should a relationship take a negative turn. Instead, if it's not possible to perform acts of kindness without the recipient knowing we've done them, at the very least we can keep our deeds entre nous -- 'between us.' Service to Fellowship We must remember the Primary Purpose of our Fellowship, and heed the suggestions of our Sponsor and the group and area when attempting to be of service. A "Lone Wolf" mentality can cause resentments, and attempting to set ourselves up as Recovery Experts can only lead to trouble. Humility is the only sure defense against humiliation, and we need the group more than the group needs us. Pure intention is the heart of service, especially to a Fellowship that may have saved our lives and given us the opportunity to live better. Service to Career Although money, jobs and career do not buy happiness, a lack of purpose or direction or a feeling that we are not productive members of society can certainly lead to low self-esteem. Acceptance, patience and tolerance play a large role in service to our own careers and helping others feel valuable at what they do. |
