Why must I have a sponsor? Can't I do this on my own?

[admin]

This is a "we" program. --Saying Heard At Meetings

Newcomer
Why must I have a sponsor? Can't I do this on my own?

Sponsor
Sponsorship is a strong suggestion--not a rule. Yes, some people do stay in recovery without a sponsor. And no, we can't recovery on our own.
There are great advantages to taking the program suggestion to maintain a relationship with a sponsor. Recovery is a major change--it's one of the most difficult, most courageous things we can do in our lives. A sponsor, someone who's survived the ups and downs we're facing in early recovery, can serve as a guide and mentor. He or she can answer our questions and help us through the Steps, giving us the benefit of his or her experience. With a sponsor present to witness our recovery process, to offer perspective and support, we may have a gentler ride.
When I was active in my addiction, I avoided the intimacy of relationships in which I might have to open myself to others or trust them. Even at times when there were many people in my life, I managed to avoid "people situations" that made me uncomfortable. A sponsor-sponsee relationship can be the start of learning that human beings can depend on one another.

Today, I'm not alone in recovery.
--If You Want What We have

[kaistevens]

I have gone thru periods of time when I didn't have a sponsor. It is SO easy for me to slide into old behaviors and old ideas without even realizing it. Without even knowing it. It's so funny how I can recognize someone else's insanity, but not my own.

When I was drinking, I thought it was a good idea to take my children with me to blow in the interlock device so that my truck would start, and run, if I had been drinking. Obviously, without the alcohol, my logic isn't as extremely messed up, but my thinking still isn't too right.

I need someone else to help me see myself clearly. I have to have a sponsor. I have to have someone, not inside my head, to help me.

I've been told, if I'm taking my own advise, I'm listening to the last person I got drunk with, I'm listening to the person who has tried to kill me all my life, I'm listening to a fool.