Off the Cuff

I think it a good work we do. I feel priveledged to be part of it

Learning to really know who and what we are and learning to honor and stay true to that person played itself out on different points on that journey played itse...lf out in different ways this night. i think our veterans appreciate new guys in part, to help, but also as a measure of how far they themselves have come. One of our veteran's has really done the work to determine for himself who and what he is, and finds it easier and easier to be true to that. He keeps speaking of feeling truly happy. He tried really hard to reach the two new guys in group tonight. Another veteran surprised us with not only what he is figuring out, but how freely he spoke to the new guys trying to give them some hope and some immediate advice. A third guy came before and is newly back. He was taking it all in. The two new guys were sticking to their story, but we all appreciated that they were strong enough to participate this early and really talk about their situation. That is the beauty of open group. All the new guys feel lost, defensive, and wondering how it all went terribly wrong. Wondering at what point they stopped being true to themselves and/or wondering if they ever really were. They get to talk to, and listen to those veterans who started in that dark place and navigated their way back into the light. We are so happy for every guy who finds New Leaf and gives themselves a chance at a better future. Thank you Harvey, Keegan, and Paula for everything you bring, and to the guys who willingly take the risk of being honest with yourselves, listening, and changing and to our veterans for taking the risk of trying to help the new guys. Everything you each bring to group matters. Look after yourselves and stay safe til we see your smilin' faces again :)

Come join us at the fire hall or see Ralph and I at Wentworth in the afternoon

Paul and harv had a great week on the newfoundland ferry ralph snd hsrv are at chase the ace pictou legion tonight