Friday, November 13th
I hesitated to find a sponsor. What if they judged me as hopeless?
Sponsorship is two people with the same problem helping each other work the program. For many, asking someone to sponsor us is to admit we are powerless over sexual compulsion and are willing to ask for help.
Some of us may have mixed feelings about sponsorship. Seeking help from an experienced member seems like a good idea, but are we ready to share everything about ourselves with someone we barely know?
We may feel vulnerable. Our history with relationships may cause us to hesitate. Many of us feel embarrassed about our romantic and sexual behaviors, which have often been selfish, sordid, secretive, and a source of shame.
However, working with a sponsor creates an opportunity to change old patterns. By practicing honesty, openness, and willingness, we can clear our minds of distrust and lies. We experience intimacy as we learn to honestly share our stories, issues, fears, and desires with another person. We can learn to apply the wisdom of the slogan: We are only as sick as our secrets.
Sponsorship is not about judgment. Our sponsor can help us see ourselves more realistically and accept our shortcomings and challenges as we work to bring healthy changes to our lives.
My sponsor stands by me as I work my recovery.