Why Adversity Is Part of the New Way to Live – Jim S.

About This Speaker Tape

A sterling silver lighter, engraved "Architect in Diversity," sits as a heavy symbol of the wreckage and the rebuilding. Jim S. entered the rooms as an arrogant soul, a man who didn't know how to make a marriage work and watched his children drink.

He describes the program not as a soft landing, but as a process that hits you in the nose, demanding a total change of life. For Jim, the "new way to live" isn't a promise of ease, but a framework for facing adversity and joy with the same steady hand. Now facing incurable cancer, he speaks of his limited time without fear, though he admits the disappointment of places he may never visit.

He views his destiny through the lens of his Higher Power, leaning on the Pacific Group—the people who provided the hands and endearment he needed to survive. He leaves the podium not with a plea for pity, but with a gritty courage, ready to face the end.

Topics

Timestamps

• 0:15 Jim S. introduces himself and mentions the Mountain High conference.
• 1:10 Laughter: Jim describes himself as an 'arrogant so-and-so' upon entering AA.
• 2:15 Jim discusses the sterling silver lighter given to him by his sponsor as a symbol of building a life.
• 4:00 Jim reflects on his marriage and the failure of previous relationships.
• 5:10 Jim discusses his daughter's 12 years of sobriety and the restoration of their relationship.
• 7:30 Jim recognizes April A. and her willingness to grow within the program.
• 9:15 Jim tells the story of Alvin A. jumping into service work by digging up rocks for his wife.
• 11:00 Jim expresses deep gratitude for his home group, the Pacific Group.
• 12:15 Raw and Emotional: Jim reveals his terminal cancer diagnosis and his lack of fear.
• 13:45 Jim's final plea for courage and dedication in facing his destiny.