This reading mentions the 8th Tradition, stating that alanon should always be nonprofessional.  It goes on to say that we help one another recover by sharing our experience, strength, and hope.  Who better knows the devastating impact of alcoholism?  And we can help those who really want help, instead of trying to force it upon those who don't want help.  Because of our experience with alcoholism, we can understand and empathize with others.  And as we give, we receive.  Albert Schweitzer says the really happy people are those who have learned how to serve.

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This is such a great read for me.  I used to thank my sponsor often and she would tell me that she learns and receives from me!  From me, I would think--what could she possibly learn from me?  But after time in program, and having sponsored a few, the meetings and contacts work because we see ourselves.  We learn from others as to how they handle things and cope.  And we also are exposed to what we shouldn't do.  It's the perfect classroom, this sharing of ideas.  The reminder says:  I find that sharing my experience, strength, and hope with others, as an equal, is one of alanon's greatest gifts.