Ummmm, let's see. I still remember the first person who held their hand out to me at an AA meeting and welcomed me. His name was Harry - I remember nothing of that meeting except his welcome and that was enough to get me back.

My sponsor that I've had for 3 years. I didn't understand what they were or how you are suppose to get them. My sponsor gave me her number one day when I spoke at a meeting. The meeting was in a different town, but it ended up that she worked in the city with me and also lived in the same suburban town as me. I had to have knee replacement and couldn't drive, so she offered me rides. After a few months she looked at me and said "Am I your sponsor or what?". She is but I didn't know I was suppose to ask

I have sponsored 2 teenage girls who were in an in-patient treatment facility for an extended period of time. I became very close to the first girl and I always said I think she did more for me than I did for - she inspired me with her courage, determination, and strenth at just 16 years old. She is now 18 and has a baby of her own. She is sober - doesn't go to meetings anymore and I worry, but she will call every once in awhile and ask me for permission to drink She knows what the answer is, so that is why she calls me. I'm honored and grateful that she will still do that.

Finally, there is a man at my home group on Saturday mornings. His name is Charlie and I love him to pieces. He is in his 70's and really could be my father, but I have adopted him as the grandfather I never had (my grandfather was my abuser). I looked forward every week to my Charlie time and hugs. I try not to project forward because he is older and has severe emphysema - not sure what I will do without him.

Boy - I went on didn't I? Sorry, so many people to be grateful for - I needed to remember that today. Thanks!

Tranquility