I’m still not entirely sold on the 12 steps approach but I do love the support we give each other here and I’m thinking about whether or not I would like to search out a similar support group IRL. so…
Do you go to a meeting in your neighbourhood? I’m honestly worried if I showed up at a meeting and ran into other parents from our school etc. I mean, I SHOULDN’T worry about that since clearly they are in a similar situation and wouldn’t be judgmental, still, I’m thinking it might be easier to be truly open with people you wouldn’t run into in social situations, such as school events or birthday party drop offs etc etc etc.
Ive lived away from my home town for 2 years now. Ive been sober and a member of Alcoholics ANONYMOUS for 1 1/2 years. I couldn’t wait to get back to my home town and attend meetings. I went back and surprisingly saw no one I knew in the meetings (the population is 2000). I was so excited about sobriety at the time I wasn’t worried about telling people I was recovering, but the protection is in the name. Most AA’s respect the anonymity of the program. There’s nothing to be ashamed of and no1 outside the program will know
@VSue my 1st meeting I had 3 days and I just went to the one that was closest to me. I’d be lying if I said I didn’t have the same fears - that someone would recognize me. I haven’t come across this yet, but honestly I don’t think it would be a big deal.
The people in those rooms, we all have a common enemy. I think I might be relieved to run into someone I know, like “oh good, you too.” Lol as strange as that seems. When I’m at work or even with my relatives I feel like somewhat of an outsider. I can’t drink and party anymore and when people talk about their crazy weekend at work I feel left out. In AA, even when I just sit and listen, I don’t feel left out.
Give it a try, it’s not for everyone but I really couldn’t be where I am today without it and working the steps. On step one now and its a lot of friggin work!
@VSue don’t worry at all!! If you did meet someone there you knew they would understand where you are completely, that is the amazing thing about the program, I love aa was apprehensive about the steps but I reached a point where I had nothing to lose by giving it a go, I am on step 4 and its the hardest one yet but I really do need to cleanse my mind so am giving it my all!! X
I’m not 100% sold on the 12 steps & the complete program. I will say at this point. I’m sold going every week & I need to & will start to go more often then I have. I will keep an open mind & can honestly admit, without those meetings I would be just another lost soul. I can’t begin to tell u the importance of searching out a unique Sponser that you can relate to. Mine takes the time to meet with me for almost an hour before the meetings & is truly a gift from God. (He’s not pushy or rushing anything. …but always there. )
Again,I’m in no way sold on all the twelve steps. However my mind is open & I will freely & respectfully debate any disagreements I have with the people in the meetings & stand firm on select issues.
Alcohol has distorted my mind to a point of almost no return. It clings so tight trying not to release it’s hold on my thoughts & desires. (And i at my current stage have allowed it to test me many times)This battle is an ongoing war that I with God’s power will win. However when u go to war against mighty forces you don’t leave your weapons at home. Accept all the help available to you & use the tools wisely & daily. Don’t be fooled when alcohol loosens it hold on your mind. It will play many tricks on you…(making u feel self sufficient).Stay alert!
I’ve never been, never plan to. Currently at 15 days. I think the internet has bust the whole taboo wide open, there’s all the information and support you need at your finger tips.
But each to their own…
Best of luck,
Tom
My very first AA meeting I ran into a guy I used to party with who was there for his 3rd DUI offense. Wasn’t scary at all actually we were both supportive of each other being there
