The 12-step program that was responsible for helping me to get sober had a few suggestions for those who wanted to be successful.

It stressed to always take life one day at a time and associate with people serious about the program.

The last step is to practice the program’s principles in all our affairs and carry the message to others who need help.

The underlining message was in order to keep what we had (sobriety); we had to give it away. The reason we’re told to give it away is because the message works both ways.

You may help the person who needs help, but it excites you, because it’s more blessed to give than to receive.

Over the years, I had many opportunities to share my story.

Jeanne asked me a few times if I ever get tired of repeating the same thing over and over.

“No,” I said. “It reminds me of where I’ve been, and if my motives are pure, someone will maybe get the message and realize that what God did for me, He would do for them. He is not a respecter of persons.”

One of the greatest feelings anyone can experience is to have someone call or write to say that their desire to be drug-free started when they heard my testimony.

Wednesday afternoon as I came home, Jeanne immediately asked me if I remembered Melanie! She gave me her last name and I said, “Yes, I do!”

“She wants you to call her.”

I called and we both realized it’s been 15 years since we last spoke to each other.

The reason she called was to say that she’ll celebrate 17 years of sobriety on November 2 and wants me to speak at her group’s open house celebration. I, gladly, accepted and look forward to seeing her.

The call with the invitation to be a part of her celebration of recovery was humbling. My role in Melanie’s success was to plant the seed. Over the years, others watered the seed with their support, encouragement and love. With Melanie’s decision to make good choices, God gave the increase.

I was reminded that God’s Word never comes back void.

If you have any questions, or comments, please write to Get High on Life, P.O. Drawer U, Reserve, LA 70084, call 985-652-8477, or e-mail: hkeller@comcast.net.