A lovely mild autumn day out here in the mountains. Freinds came over for lunch, sober AA friends, bringing brioche and plums rosted with star anise, armfuls of flowers, chocolates, Camembert cheeses, books and newspapers from the city. Such wonderful friendship and togetherness I get all wet-eyed to think of it.
After lunch we went for a walk through vineyards and up the mountainside to look over the valley. We talked about doing Steps 6 and 7, very openly and exchanging gut-wrenching stories. I have not felt so safe and loved in months. Willinness, Trust. Surender.
The philosopher and thinker Erich Fromm wrote that one of the key dilemmas of our life relates to the core question about freedom. Do we want freedom with its pain and responsibility and growth, or do we want to escape freedom and settle for the unlived life?
Some days I think I know the answer. Some days I just have to close my eyes and leap towards the abyss. And trust I am not alone.
I loved this post.
It makes me happy to read of your time spent with AA visitors from the city.
We–all of us–need that one-on-one, eyeball-to-eyeball contact, whether on daily or annual schedule. God is good!
How far in miles (and hours) is the (name) city?
Peace, Mary!
Freedom, always.
I could not live without my freedom; responsibility and all. I love this post and send my love to you!
Ah…what’s that old Janis Joplin song…
Freedom’s just another word for nothing left to lose…
always choices…always.
Glad you got some sober human contact! *wink
Trust. Then jump!