Learning to Live Without Pain

ONE NOON this year, I had one of those unbelievable accidents, cutting my finger nearly all the way around, bone deep, and breaking off a piece of bone. Like any professional baby, I erupted instantly with curses, tears, and screams. But AA's rational calmness began taking over, in spite of myself. "Cold water--in a pan--with ice." It was as if a voice outside of me had spoken--gently, firmly, clearly. My panic ebbed. I dialed a newer AA member. "Can you handle a minor crisis?" Waiting, I scribbled a note with my left hand for my son, who was out just then.