ONLY TWO SINS
- Catherine Merola
- Nov 22
- 1 min read
November 22
…there are really only two failings: the first is blocking the growth of another person, and the second is blocking our own.
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS, p. 542 (Third Edition)
True happiness can feel slippery and hard to grasp. At times, my prayers for others carry hidden motives for myself. Sometimes my pursuit of happiness becomes an obstacle to someone else’s growth—or even my own. Yet when I choose humility and acceptance, I discover that challenges, setbacks, and even pain can become stepping stones. Looking back, I see how those difficult moments have shaped me, leading to serenity and deeper growth in the program.
Today, I ask my Higher Power to guide me so that I do not hinder the growth of another—or my own.
I really enjoyed today’s read. The emphasis on blocking the growth stood out to me in many ways. Like meeting with sponsees and hesitating to make a suggestion. My job as a sponsor is to help someone to grow; to use the tools of recovery in everyday life. And the same with my sponsor. I really appreciate kind and constructive suggestions from her! AA has been my design for living! In order to keep growing I have to actively use the tools!