There are many tools I use to maintain my abstinence, but none of them are as important to me as service. I do a lot of service, but it’s not for fame or glory; I do service in order to keep my program strong. I came into program for the first time back in college, and only got there because someone offered to give me a ride.

When we first walk into these rooms, we often feel lost and alone in the dark world of compulsive overeating. But at that very first meeting we hear people talk about their experience and strength, and a small glow of light comes into our view. All it takes is that one "single sunbeam," and we have hope again, and our world seems brighter.

As we keep coming back and working the Steps, we encounter lots of different sunbeams, and slowly the shadows in our lives are cast away and the world becomes bright again. However, it is then our responsibility to let our own light shine. One of the beauties of this program is that everyone can find a way to give service. Whether it be on the group or Intergroup level, whether by sponsoring or just making a call, whether by serving as secretary, treasurer, or just by helping to put chairs away after a meeting, there is a job for EVERYONE. No one should feel "unimportant." I’m sure that the lady who gave me a ride to my first few meetings didn’t feel like she was doing anything special, but she was the first sunbeam in my life, and years later her act of giving has ignited in me a burning desire to give back to others the miracle of this program.

One Day at a Time . . .
I will be unafraid to let my light shine.
Any act of service that I can give will not only help another,
but will ensure that my own light does not burn out.

~ Laurel ~

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