November 7 – Feet on the Ground
“I never met a man who relapsed or got drunk who began his day with quiet time with God.” — Dr. Bob Smith, Co-founder of AA
Dr. Bob said it, and it hits hard. I can't forget he was one drink away from destruction, just like me—here because he wanted to stay sober. For me, it’s important not to forget that the same desire brought me into this fellowship. I can’t lose sight of what I am or how much damage I can cause, no matter how spiritual I might start to feel.
Some days the ego polishes up nicely, and it’s easy to stroll into a meeting acting like I’ve been handpicked by God Himself—radiating wisdom, tossing around serenity, talking about all the things that “work for me.” Then that line from the Big Book lands: “Yet we keep our feet on the ground, for that is where our fellow travelers are.”
That one keeps me in check. The minute I start quietly judging what works for you versus what works for me, I’m back on a spiritual high horse that’s headed for a crash. Staying grounded reminds me that I belong right here with everyone else. That sense of belonging is part of the miracle.
The only “how” that ever mattered to me is H.O.W.—honest, open-minded, and willing. After that, the spiritual path is personal. I’ve learned I’m just another bozo on the bus, trying to stay teachable. Nobody told me what to do, and that freedom of choice kept me here. Sometimes saving my ass looks like keeping both feet on the ground.
When’s the last time you looked around and realized the people walking beside you are exactly where you belong?
