Not a glum lot

We have been dealing with alcohol in its worst aspect. But we aren't a glum lot. If newcomers could see no joy or fun in our existence, they wouldn't want it. We absolutely insist on enjoying life. We try not to indulge in cynicism over the state of the nations, nor do we carry the world's troubles on our shoulders. When we see a man sinking into the mire that is alcoholism, we give him first aid and place what we have at his disposal. For his sake, we do recount and almost relive the horrors of our past. But those of us who have tried to shoulder the entire burden and troubles of others find we are soon overcome by them.

So we think cheerfulness and laughter make for usefulness. Outsiders are sometimes shocked when we burst into merriment over a seemingly tragic experience out of the past. But why shouldn't we laugh? We have recovered, and have been given the power to help others.
Alcoholics Anonymous, 4th edition, page 132

todAAy i AAm grAAteful & thAAnkful

that most people find a way to forgive me for my terrible jokes, most of the time

that I've been asked by 4 people to sponsor them over the past 2 weeks -- either they know I have too much time on my hands or maybe I'm doing something right

that I got through another month of chairing noon AA meetings, apparently without causing anyone to relapse

that by taking advantage of a variety of service opportunities, I get to experience recovery from a variety of angles

that I don't know of even one furniture upholsterer in recovery

that I'm smiling while typing this and on the television is "The Texas Chainsaw Massacre"

A well-developed sense of humor is the pole that adds balance to your steps as you walk the tightrope of life.
-William A. Ward