If you’ve achieved sobriety with the support of good friends, or you’ve been in AA awhile, you’ll probably relate to this post. As my time in the program moves on, God has put countless people in my life who’ve influenced me in so many ways. I’d like to share a few short memories about one of those people.
When I walked into AA in ’05, David E. already had a few years in the program. He always sat with a group of oldtimers, David always looked like the young’un, wide-eyed and enthusiastic about his life in recovery. He always had a kind word and a handshake for the newcomers, and a hug for the women. David shared his ES&H freely and proudly, he always spoke highly of the program, God, and his AA family. I don’t think I ever heard him speak an unkind word.
After I had a little sober time under my belt I found out that I’d known David for years, he was a customer of mine but I’d never put the voice on the phone with the face from AA. So David would stop by my office every month or so and we’d talk about the program and how good our lives were in recovery, and how great God was. It felt good to have a friend like that who cared enough to take time out of his day for me.
David always showed up a little early for meetings. We’d sit outside, drink coffee, and enjoy the “meeting before the meeting”, and we’d always part with an understanding hug. For the past two years we both served on the Board for our AA club. It gave us something to smile and shake our heads about, recently we felt the call to move on to better things and resigned at the same time. It’s been a few weeks since I’ve seen his smiling face.
Another AA friend of mine just posted on Facebook that David E. passed away last night from cancer, he was just diagnosed on Monday. ****, I’m gonna miss that guy, I’m praying for his wife and family. But I have to smile, I’d like to think that God has a few alkies that need a good sponsor, and I know David won’t let them down.
Goodbye my friend, it’s been my honor and pleasure to know a fine alcoholic like you
