When I first found the courage to say yes to service, it was with the thought that I would be giving. I was not prepared for all that came back to me in abundance. The growth in my recovery and the benefits to relationships with my loved ones were gifts I did not expect. Service is an essential core principle of the Al‑Anon program, and our full opportunity for recovery is limited if we do not explore service at and beyond the group level. As a new year approaches, how might we think abundantly about service?
Before taking on a service position, I asked myself, “How can I possibly commit to others when my own life is in such turmoil?” But those doubts were unfounded. A spiritual awakening unfolded before me, just as the booklet When I Got Busy, I Got Better (P-78) says. Being busy in service gave me an escape from unmanageability, allowed me to find confidence in my decision-making, and brought me peace and serenity. I was guided gently and kindly by those who had gone before me. They passed on their knowledge of what I did not yet understand and gave me space to practice and to make mistakes in a safe and trusting environment.
As I continue to serve, I do so with a heart full of gratitude for what I have received. When newcomers attend a meeting, I am reminded of the importance of being there for those who have not yet found Al‑Anon. Working at the World Service Office (WSO), I get to interact with colleagues for whom service has also been a pinnacle of recovery. We share valuable insights with each other and with the fellowship about the sometimes challenging topics of rotation of service, resolution of conflict by talking things through and reasoning them out together, and how to bring deeper understanding not only to service in Al‑Anon but also within our own lives.
Most recently, my position has allowed me to have these conversations with Al‑Anon structures around the world. Although these conversations are held in many different languages, the messages follow a similar thread: the wish to ensure that Al‑Anon’s message of help and hope is there for the next person. Passing on what we have learned is crucial for the future of Al‑Anon, as well as an expression of our gratitude.
When I think about how much more I receive by giving in service, I recognize that I could not have given at all without having had others pass on their wisdom to me. Thinking of those who navigated this journey before me inspires me and gives me strength. I know I am not alone. There is warmth and a sense of belonging in being able to pass on to others what I have received.
In the end, service is all about putting love into action. During those times in my life when I struggled to take the next step, not knowing what direction I needed to go or where I might find myself, being able to give in service to Al‑Anon, unconditionally, out of love, brought gifts in abundance. I have also learned that I can only keep the joy and love I’ve found in service when I continue to give them away!
Today, I am in a place that I could not have imagined. Life still brings unexpected challenges, but as I grow in service, I discover the tools needed to guide me. The joy of coming together in service fills me abundantly.
By Tracey S., International Services Manager
The Forum, December 2024
“Inside Al-Anon Family Groups” presents news, policy, and commentary from volunteers, staff, and readers sharing experience through service. Please feel free to reprint these articles on your service structure website or newsletter, along with this credit line: Reprinted with permission of Al-Anon Family Group Headquarters, Inc., Virginia Beach, Virginia, USA.