I  have  been  plagued  with  horrible  feelings  of  shame,  condemnation  and  guilt  when  I  think  about  the wreckage  behind  me.  I  have  been  hiding  by  trying  not  to  think  about  it  at  all  but  it  is  always  there lurking  in  the  shadows. By  God’s  grace,  I  heard  this  deeply  touching  message  by  an  AA  speaker  on  YouTube  and  I  would  like to  share  my  experience  of  release  from  this  bondage  with  you. Quoting  her: “We   have   scars,   some   externally   from   our   disease   of   drinking,   like   battle   wounds.   But   most importantly   are   our   internal   scars   that   bring   such   deep   pain,   shame   and   guilt.   I   asked   God   why things  take  place,  things  that  changed  me  forever  and  caused  me  such  disgrace.  His  answer  came clear  and  my  tears  began  to  fall.  ‘My  child,  those  scars  are  your  grace  gifts.  With  my  power  behind you,  we  will  change  lives  together.  Trust  me  and  keep  seeking  and  I  will  lead  you.’ This  painful  past  may  be  of  infinite  value  to  those  still  struggling  with  their  problem  with  alcoholism. Showing  others  how  we  suffer  is  the  only  way  that  seems  worthwhile  to  them  sometimes.  Clinging  to the  thought  that  with  God,  our  dark  past  is  the  greatest  possession  we  have.  It  is  the  key  to  averting death  and  misery  by  other  suffering  alcoholics  and  their  loved  ones. I  used  to  think  that  sharing  my  past  was  about  telling  others  what  I  have  been  through  but  it  isn’t like  that  at  all. Everything  in  my  life  God  is  going  to  use,  from  that  first  drink  to  the  last  struggle  I  had.  God  wants  to use  us  to  help  others  and  if  only  I  will  step  up  and  step  out,  lives  can  be  changed.” What  a  wonderful  message!  I  got  down  on  my  knees  and  thanked  God  for  his  wonderful  grace  and to  guide  me  and  give  me  courage  and  use  me. Anonymous -­‐  -­‐  -­‐  -­‐ If  we  do  not  feel  grateful  for  what  we  already  have,  what  makes  us  think  we’d  be  happy  with more?  ~  Unknown The  world  is  full  of  nice  people.  If  you  can’t  find  one,  be  one.      ~  Nishan  Panwar

Alconyms – Inspiring & Insightful Recovery Catchphrases Thanks to another fellow for this editions’ sayings and the rather catchy new heading of Alconyms. We would like to keep this as a regular feature and, therefore, appreciate all contributions. Please send these to newsletter@singaporeaa.org for this a regular feature. ¢ HELP =Hope, Encouragement, Love, Patience! ¢ HOPE= Helping Other People Everyday ¢ THIN K= The Happiness | Never Knew * PROGRAM = Prayer, Recovery, Open-mindedness, Gratitude, Reality, Acceptance, Meetings ¢ GRACE =Gently Releasing All Conscious Expectations ¢ ART=Always Remain Teachable ¢ NEW= Nothing Else Worked ¢ GIFTS = Getting It From The Steps ¢ HOPE= Hang On! Peace Exists * PRIDE= Personal Recovery Involves Deflating Ego ¢ GRACE =Gently Releasing All Conscious Expectations ¢ ASAP = Always Say A Prayer * SWAT= Surrender, Willingness, Action, Trust ¢ AGO=Another Growth Opportunity ¢ SIT =Stay In Today ¢ HOP E= Heart Open; Please Enter * CHANG E=Choosing Humility Allows New Gifts and Energy 30