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Al-Anon Forum Magazine Featured Article
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Ph.D. for Life
- Ph.D. for Life
- When I was living with active alcoholism I didn't know anything like Al-Anon existed. I was in the midst of divorcing the problem when I started dating a man whose information would save my life. On our fifth date, he told me he was a sober alcoholic in recovery. He gently suggested that I try Al-Anon. I imagine he was thinking, "Girl, do you need Al-Anon!" Anyway, he took me to my first meeting. He didn't know I was contemplating suicide at the time. I'm grateful that he left me with those Al-Anon ladies. The experience saved my life.
- My first sponsor was self-appointed and wouldn't leave me alone. She was a group representative (GR) who became the district representative (DR). She drove all over town doing Twelve Step calls and putting up posters. She went to state assemblies, area workshops, conferences - and she dragged me along. For a while I thought, "Get in the car" was the First Step. She taught me the importance of public information. People are attracted to Al-Anon when they want it, but they have to know it is an option before they can choose to come.
- I've had the opportunity to relocate several times while I've been a member of this program. I've experienced what was new or different in each area and what was the same in Al-Anon everywhere. My sponsor and I formed a two-woman Al-Anon information service in southern Germany where there were very few English-speaking meetings. I often sat alone at the meeting in my little town. As a result, I actually read the books -something I might not have done if I had lived in a more populated area where I could depend on a large group for information and support.
- I became an active part of two districts when I came back from Europe. I took turns at group jobs and held GR, alternate DR, DR and area chairperson positions. In those years I learned to host "Meetings-on-Wheels" and the importance of Al-Anon's support for Alateen groups. I learned the truth about the Ninth Tradition, which says we are not to be organized. I had the opportunity to practice many Al-Anon principles in my interactions with other members-running meetings, networking, communicating with the rest of the team, delegating job tasks and letting go.
- My home group is my home, so I've wanted to help keep it in order. Even after relocating to a different part of the country, I've been a GR again. I've taken turns as group secretary or treasurer, too, at various times. My experience suggests that my recovery heavily depends on my willingness to serve Al-Anon.
- The strength I've received is immeasurable. I've learned to see God in everyone. I cannot afford to let personalities keep me from hearing a message just because I don't like the messenger. I've learned the importance of listening - that it is more valuable for my spirit to understand than it is to be understood. I've learned the place of Conference Approved Literature and why it's a good idea for me to promote it. I've learned the value of the Fourth Concept - that the key to harmony is participation. At all levels, I believe all of our ideas belong in discussions about Al-Anon's future.
- Most importantly, I've learned to live the idea that gratitude means action. This program saved my life. I want to be sure it continues for all those who still need to walk through the doors. I've been at meetings on major holidays when a newcomer entered. I'm glad I was there.
- Before I came to Al-Anon, I often felt pressured into saying yes and serving. My hope is there are no "have to's" in this program. I know the only requirement for most positions in Al-Anon service is the willingness to try. Our declaration statement, "Let It Begin With Me," has a great pull on my spirit. Still, sometimes it's good for me to sit on my hands. It's important that I allow others to have opportunities, too. It's important that I encourage newcomers to grow.
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- Mitsi J. - Nevada
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Alcoholism is a family disease. Those of us who live with, or have have lived with, this disease as children or adults sometimes have problems which the Al-Anon program can help us to resolve. If you have answered yes to some of all of the above questions, Al-Anon may be of help to you. You can contact Al-Anon by checking your local telephone directory, or from the Resources page. Phone numbers and Contact Information for the Austin Area are listed on the Contact Page of this website.
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- These articles were reproduced with permission from 'The Forum', the monthly inspirational newsletter of Al-Anon. Al-Anon World Headquarters, Inc. is located in Virginia Beach, VA. See www.Al-Anon.org for more information.
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