Hi folks. If I don’t say “I’m an alcoholic”
And just say, “I have a desire not to take a drink today”
Does that qualify me to speak at an AA meeting, got o business meetings, etc.?
I myself don’t consider myself to be an alcoholic, but I have the allergy (drank alcoholically for 15 years). Att some point I realized that what I really am is an Adult Child.
Adult Children have addictions.
This explains why I was always scared in AA meetings!
However I really can’t drink.
Alcohol and drugs are a place I cannot go back to.
Considering all of this, is it fair or allowed for me to speak in AA meetings?
I found this on the AA website, but it doesn’t include the way I say it.
“Open meetings are available to anyone interested in Alcoholics Anonymous’s program of recovery from alcoholism. Nonalcoholics may attend open meetings as observers. Closed meetings are for A.A.members only or for those who have a drinking problem and “have a desire to stop drinking.””
THE ONLY REQUIREMENT FOR AA IS A DESIRE TO STOP DRINKING. My understanding of closed meetings are just that people who have a desire to stop drinking.
Open meetings are open to maybe family members or anyone wanting to know more about the program.
If you don’t want a label alcoholic than don’t have one. If AA keeps you sober then AA is serving its purpose.
When introducing yourself… “Hi I am Hopewell.” My AA group would not make any comment to your introduction. We had one member say Suspect after introducing themselves…
You can say you desire not to take a drink today and share whatever you like relating to alcohol at any AA meeting .we remember the yellow card
And suggest people keep coming back . Keep it simple @Hopewell
You would be welcome at meetings in my area. It may be a mouthful to introduce yourself “I have a desire to not drink”, and it may make you stand out, but it’s your truth and it adheres to the AA traditions.
