Calling Alcoholics

What if I never took a newcomer’s number? I would never have gotten to help some of them as they tell me I have (and they have). What if our group shunned those who came in suffering, instead of shaking their hands and giving them a big hug and a chip (and a tissue if they need it)? What if I hadn’t felt a newcomer’s pain and asked nothing from her except to help give her guidance because she asked for it? I would not have had the privilege of helping her through the Steps as her sponsor, and I would have missed seeing her make life-changing decisions—and grow up.