THINKING OF OTHERS
Recovery Einstein's Big Book perspective on the AA Daily Reflection for December 13.
Thinking of others isn't just a nice idea—it's the very heart of our recovery. The Big Book nails it on page 62: 'Selfishness—self-centeredness! That, we think, is the root of our troubles.' When we were drinking, our minds were a nonstop loop of me, me, me. Turning that around is what the Steps are all about. By Step Twelve, the Promises on pages 83-84 tell us what happens: 'We will lose interest in selfish things and gain interest in our fellows.' That shift isn't automatic—it's practiced. And it keeps us sober. Page 89 says it straight: 'Nothing will so much insure immunity from drinking as intensive work with other alcoholics.' So when you find yourself thinking about someone else's pain, their needs, their story—you're not just being nice. You're building a wall against the next drink. That's the miracle.
When was the last time you deliberately set aside your own worries to focus on helping another alcoholic—and what happened inside you as a result?
Start each day with Einstein's Big Book perspective — a quiet moment before the world gets loud.
This is Recovery Einstein's original Big Book perspective on the day's theme — not the official AA Daily Reflections text. For the official reflection, follow the aa.org link above. Page references are to Alcoholics Anonymous (the Big Book), 4th Edition.
Quick answers
What is the AA Daily Reflection for December 13?
The theme for December 13 is “Thinking of Others.” Thinking of others isn't just a nice idea—it's the very heart of our recovery.
When was the last time you deliberately set aside your own worries to focus on helping another alcoholic—and what happened inside you as a result?
You're building a wall against the next drink. That's the miracle. (Big Book: Chapter 5 (page 62) and Chapter 6 (pages 83-84) and Chapter 7 (pages 89-90))