Twelve Steps to Holiday Joy

Someone distributed sheets of paper on the tables at A.A. today, labeled "Twelve Tips on Keeping Your Holiday Season Sober and Joyous." I thought I would pass along these tips to you, slightly abridged, in case you are tempted to make your Christmas too jolly.

1. Line up A.A. activities for the holiday season. Volunteer.
2. Be host to A.A. friends, especially newcomers. At least invite them to meet you for coffee.
3. Keep your A.A. telephone list handy with you at all times.
4. Find out about any special A.A. holiday parties, meetings, or other celebrations.
5. Skip any drinking occasion you are nervous about. "And lead us not into temptation."
6. If you have to go to a drinking party and can't take an A.A. with you, keep some candy handy.
7. Don't think you have to stay someplace late. Have an exit excuse ready.
8. Worship in your own way.
9. Don't sit around brooding. Catch up on books, museums, walks, and letters.
10. Don't start now getting worked up about holiday temptations. Remember: One Day at a Time.
11. Enjoy the true beauty of holiday love and joy. If you can't afford gifts this year, give love.
12. "Having had a spiritual.... No need to spell out the Twelfth Step here, since you already know it.