The Twelve Steps form us similarly. By seeking recovery through the Steps, we learn to practice social virtues like honesty, patience, humility, brotherly love, integrity, service, and others. Social virtues make daily life more pleasant and draw us closer to God as well as help us, by God’s grace, embody the supernatural virtues of love, hope, and faith. In fact, Pope Saint John Paul II speaks similarly in one of his papal addresses about the gift of practicing social virtues:

“Elizabeth’s start of joy at the Visitation emphasizes the gift that can be contained in a mere greeting when it comes from a heart full of God. How often can the darkness of loneliness, oppressing a soul, be dispelled by the shining ray of a smile and a kind word! A good word is soon said; yet sometimes we find it difficult to utter. We are restrained by fatigue, we are distracted by worries, we are checked by a feeling of coldness or selfish indifference. Thus, it happens that we may pass by persons, although we know them, without looking at their faces and without realizing how often they are suffering from that subtle, wearing sorrow which comes from feeling ignored. A cordial word, an affectionate gesture could be enough, and something would at once awaken in them: a sign of attention and courtesy can be a breath of fresh air in the stuffiness of an existence oppressed by sadness and dejection. Mary’s greeting filled with joy the heart of her elderly cousin Elizabeth” (“Address,” February 11, 1981).

Our friends and family members long for kindness, cheerfulness, and encouragement. I feel at peace when I am understood and warmly encouraged, especially when my defects and mistakes are apparent. And I have also learned through my recovery that people thirst for my smile and little compliments—I know I thirst for theirs. Therefore, let us always be looking to bring a spirit of joy and gratitude to all we encounter in our lives. As Saint Paul puts it, “In all circumstances, give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

Reflection Questions

• How does it make you feel when you are complimented or treated with joy by others? What can you do today to make others feel the same way?
• Can you think of three ways to add peace to those in your life by practicing social virtues?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Wisdom 6:1-11
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 82:3-4,6-7
Gospel: Luke 17:11-19

Reflection by Chiara F.