This is a common question for people in early recovery, more common than you might think. Most of us do not get here on a winning streak. I have yet to meet someone in a meeting that says, "Hey, life is great, I think I will go to an AA meeting!" That being said, newcomers often have more time on their hands than they know what to do with. This was the case for me, and it has been driving me out of my mind, to be honest with you. Until today...
I got a job!!!
Yesterday, I called about a job at a local steel fabricating facility. Today I interviewed and was hired on the spot! Unfortunately, I do not start until Monday the 2nd, so that means I have to make it through another week and a half of just being in my own head. For me, and people like me, that is not always the best place to be. I have written on this subject before and spoken about hanging out at the Alano club and going to meetings a lot. I am continuing to do exactly that, and am in fact there now. But let's stay focused, I GOT A JOB!!!
Not the first one...
The job I got was not the first I applied for, nor was it the first one I was offered. I waited for one that was good for me. I ended up taking a job that starts at seventeen dollars an hour and has benefits after the first thirty days. I say that to say that patience is also very important in early recovery. If I would have taken the first kitchen job I was offered, I would not have the opportunity that I now have, and I would have stopped looking. The job I got today is also within walking distance of where I live, which is a huge plus as well.
One day at a time...
There are a list of promises in the A.A. Program and they do come true, if you give them enough time, and that is the key. Time. Time heals all wounds is what the old saying says, but if we don't give ourselves enough time to heal, those wounds will always be there. So give yourself a break, and give yourself time. Easier said than done, but it can be done!
