Practicing Step Three is like the opening of a door which to all appearances is still closed and locked. All we need is a key, and the decision to swing the door open. There is only one key, and it is called willingness. ~ AA World Services Inc. Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions (p. 34).

Pounding on the door. Holding a key in your hand
and placing it in the lock, turning and turning
and stopping for fear of breaking the key.
Pounding on the door. Let me in!!!
You know the door opens, there’s a key near,
but hidden where? Not under the doormat.
Not in the planter on the porch. Not over the door sill.
Where is it? Others have gotten in. Why can’t I??
Yes, the key’s available. It’s the one in our hands.
The one we tried and tried and were afraid it would break.
Open the stinking door!!
After a while exhaustion sets in. You know the door will open,
that others have walked through. But it won’t for you.
You insert the key again and address the door calmly.
I need to get in. Won’t you please let me in?
I promise, I’ll hold my temper, that I’ll behave.
But my life is miserable and this is the only door.
I want to go in so badly. And this time it works.
the lock clicks, the bolt slides down, all you need do
is turn the nob, walk through, continue to do it seeking,
wanting, standing ready. And when you do, you know
deep in your heart you’ll never go back outside again.
Welcome to recovery. Welcome home!