I was in AA for a year and then relapsed. I really love my meeting that I was going to but i feel ashamed and embarrassed about my relapse. Any words of encouragement or advice on how to gain the confidence to return to my group.
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Hey 
I’ve often thought about that myself. I haven’t relapsed, but know quite a few people here and at meetings that have come back after relapse. I’ve thought that’s one of the most courageous things I’ve ever seen. Coming back here or to The Rooms. It takes a big person to do that. I find it very impressive. I hope if I’ve ever relapsed I have half the courage some of the people I know that have returned. And your story might keep someone else like me from relapsing. Don’t let the bastards (shame and embarrassment) win.
I bet you were missed.
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It would take way more courage to show up again post relapse than to hide and stay away. I have no doubt you’ll be welcomed back
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Shame is the feeling that you alone are responsible and culpable for the bad stuff happening and what you have done… That no one else could possibly be as horrible and stupid as you have been. Millions of people relapse, millions of people have substance abuse and illnesses. It’s better to hold your head up and dive back into the discomfort than nurture shame alone. You have done nothing wrong or unusual to what the average human might do. Do something the average human won’t do: ride the storm and jump back in. Good luck, they got you and now you need to get your own back too. 
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“I’m just embarrassed to go back to my old meeting but I know I have a lot of lovely people there waiting to support me”
The quote is from an earlier comment of yours.
I know that here at talking sober we’re always very happy to see someone come back.
Not because they’ve relapsed, but because they’ve come back to a familiar place for help. Then the members here know what happened to them instead of just not knowing anything and also are ready to help them get on their sobriety way again and to support them.
Life is life. It’s not perfect. There will be relapses. I’m glad that you have a group that you liked, with all those lovely people there, who will welcome you with open arms and lots of support.
Lots of support for you here also.
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If everyone who has a relapse stops going to meetings, then what’s the point of the meetings?
If you return, you are showing up for your sober self. And others learn an incredible amount with you and from you. When you come back, it’s important not just for yourself, but for the group.
Shame and guilt are not helpful. Send these feelings away. You will be welcome there.
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If someone else had relapsed, how would you react to them coming back? Grateful they’re alive, glad they are trying again, eager to support, right? It is the same for others.
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Your seat will always be there wish you well
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