special?

We look at some people as if they were special, gifted, divine. Nobody is special and gifted and divine. No more than you are, no more than I am. The only difference, the very only one, is that they have begun to understand what they really are and have begun to practice it.

- Richard Bach

this quote impressed me and struck a chord about early recovery.

the many times i viewed someone as remarkable or special;
looking back at that habit of putting a person "on a pedestal".

having spent so much time and energy masking my true self,
and trying to be tougher, cooler or more amorous, i had no
clue who or what i was anymore.

gradually the hero worship lessened, and i began to
appreciate the qualities of others, without envy.
having witnessed friends panic when a sponsor
relapsed, taught me some valuable lessons.

no one is immune;
accept your shortcomings,
embrace your strengths,
find your own path,

remain responsible and accountable and available.