Unsung Heroes

As we once again look to deal with some difficult weather conditions, I am reminded of the amazing stories of people helping each other during the recent other snow and ice storm. These were the unsung heroes who took it upon themselves to make a difference to those stranded and in need, and though the national news media had a field day making fun of how we cannot handle these types of conditions, I saw many stories of those good Samaritans who made all of us feel like we live in the right place. 

Next Monday we celebrate the 7th Sobriety Anniversary of Willie Mae Bush, herself a recipient of many blessings others have bestowed upon her, but one who is always giving back as an unsung hero. Whether giving someone a ride who is in need, making coffee for a meeting and setting up, or just inviting someone over for a meal, she is always giving back, which is a major principle of the 12 Step program. Though, like many of us, still struggling to keep her life on track, she has followed the man on the road less traveled to overcome. 

I could go on naming people who have had a major impact on ATB, but most would prefer to remain anonymous. To them, we offer our sincere thanks for your amazing service and love. But my focus today, aside from Willie Mae, is on those biblical and today folks who refuse to ignore the needs of others. 

The Good Samaritan was on that less traveled road as well, willingly taking a risk that many of us in today's society might consider dangerous. What made him so fearless and selfless? What made those strangers in the snow take other strangers in for the night? Maybe like Willie Mae, and many others of us, he had been through hell and back and figured nothing else could really harm him. Maybe, he felt, like Willie Mae, so much had been given him that he just couldn't help not helping. Whatever reason, it is truly the spirit of an unsung hero who without hesitation lays it all on the line for another human being, that's what makes us stand up and applaud.

So today, and during this week, give those folks a round of applause as they may be joined by others during the current storm. Give Willie Mae a hand next Monday, but please remember that other unsung hero who hung on a cross and gave his life for a bunch of strangers. Give him the biggest hand, and then let him guide you through the snow and ice of your life!

Me, I'm heading for the son!