Laying the Groundwork for Sobriety: Quentin W. on Building a Strong Foundation
Practicing the A.A. program is like building a house. First, we had to pour a big, thick concrete slab on which to erect the house.
Picture yourself at the start of a massive construction project, but instead of bricks and mortar, you're working with courage, honesty, and service. That's how Quentin W. from New York City describes his journey to sobriety on this episode of the Daily Reflection Podcast. Quentin, a regular at the Sunrise Semester group in Philadelphia, shares his unique perspective on what it takes to build a solid foundation in recovery.
In this episode, Quentin opens up about the early days of his recovery, likening it to pouring a thick concrete slab – the essential first step before you can build anything substantial. He talks about the initial discomfort of this phase, feeling exposed and vulnerable, much like living on an unfinished slab. But as he continued to practice the principles of AA, he began to 'build rooms' on his foundation, each one stronger and more stable than the last.
Quentin's story is particularly poignant as he navigates the challenges of maintaining sobriety during the pandemic. He emphasizes the importance of anonymity and honesty in the recovery process, sharing how these principles have been crucial in his journey. Service work also plays a significant role in Quentin's story. He explains how doing something for others without expecting anything in return has been a powerful tool in staying sober.
For anyone grappling with addiction or supporting someone who is, Quentin's insights offer valuable lessons. His analogy of building a house provides a clear and relatable way to understand the process of recovery. The episode is filled with wisdom and practical advice on cultivating courage, honesty, and service work as foundational elements in sobriety. Tune in to hear Quentin's inspiring journey and discover how you too can lay a strong foundation for your recovery.