Although no one will pressure you to talk, it's good to introduce yourself to the group. If you're not comfortable admitting your alcoholism, you can simply give your name. Please note that only your name is required due to AA's anonymity. It's a phrase you hear in A, A.
But where does it come from? Why do we say so? And should we continue to do so? However, since it is a community with many suggestions, but no official rules, must a person declare, as many people do when they show up at meetings, that they are an alcoholic? In A, A. I wrestled with this question and often wrote about the dilemma that newcomers face when dealing with their illness, often for the first time and often in a relatively “public” way in A, A. Bill rarely, if ever, presented himself from the podium specifically as an alcoholic, and there is nothing in A, A. Conference-approved literature that indicates how members should present themselves in A, A.
Meetings or if necessary. So where does this custom of self-identification come from and how was it so indelibly engraved on the A, A?. 21st century landscape? Like a lot of things in A, A. However, according to one of A's first friends, A.
Seiberling, a non-alcoholic who had sought spiritual help at Oxford Group meetings, was the one who introduced Bill W. Bob, who was then having difficulty dealing with his alcohol consumption, attending Oxford Group meetings in Akron. From there, it has become an almost mandatory part of the recovery lexicon and, with its various alternatives and self-revealing permutations, a somewhat controversial way of presenting oneself at meetings. Finding a balance between these approaches is an ongoing exercise in humility, trust, and acceptance within the Community, as members seek to be inclusive but aware of the unique links of alcoholism that keep us all connected.
As stated in the Big Book, in the chapter “Towards Action”, we have entered the world of the Spirit. Our next role is to grow in understanding and effectiveness. This is not an overnight issue. It should continue throughout our lives.
Continue to watch out for selfishness, dishonesty, resentment, and fear. When they arise, we immediately ask God to remove them. We discuss them with someone immediately and make amends quickly if we have harmed someone. Then, let's resolutely direct our thoughts to someone we can help.
Love and tolerance for others is our code. You can help people affected by alcoholism by making a donation to the Cleveland District Office. People get together and talk, and there's a social environment in the room once the meeting is over. Some may come before you and offer their help or share their experiences being sober.
While many members find this time after the meeting valuable, it's up to you if you want to stay and socialize. Make an effort to introduce yourself when you first arrive at the AA meeting. If you're not normally an extrovert or don't feel comfortable introducing yourself right away, wait for the group leader or president to ask if there's anyone new to the group. Take advantage of this moment to break the ice and introduce yourself to the group.
Two years ago, I underwent treatment for opioid addiction and have since then returned to AA meetings. After doing some research, I discovered that the currently accepted way to present yourself at a meeting is the way each particular meeting manages its presentations. But keep in mind that each of these people felt exactly like you did now, when they attended your first AA meeting. At first, some people feel more comfortable listening quietly and becoming familiar with the structure and flows of an AA meeting before speaking.
It took another 18 months of regular AA meetings and misery as an active alcoholic before, by God's grace, the obsession disappeared. Attending AA meetings is a great way to feel “family,” but I don't want to call myself an alcoholic when I introduce myself. If you're not too excited about your first AA meeting, understand that getting through your first meeting is an important milestone and an important first step toward recovery. .
Leave Message