It amazes me how quickly Al‑Anon service changed my life. I began my service journey as Secretary of my home group, and the support I received from those members helped me to accept and believe in myself. With growing confidence and self-esteem, I progressed to Group Representative, District Representative, and on to Area Group Records Coordinator.
In October 2020, my husband and I headed to Norfolk, Virginia, for a long overdue visit with my son’s family. With my husband driving, I read a news posting from In The Loop, the World Service Office (WSO) electronic newsletter, for the Group Services Staff position at the WSO. Assuming I knew the answer, I asked my husband what he thought and would he ever consider moving to Virginia. Amazingly, he said, “You should go for it.” I was stunned. I had a good job, friends, family, Al‑Anon groups, a Sponsor, people that I sponsored, and service opportunities. But I was missing the opportunity to be part of my granddaughters’ lives. And the thought of working at the WSO was beyond my wildest dreams.
On our way home from Virginia, I felt my Higher Power working overtime to guide me in this decision. An Al‑Anon friend encouraged me to apply for the job. My program work and service experience gave me the courage. One short month and three interviews later, I accepted the position of Group Services Specialist at the WSO.
Then the panic set in. There was so much to do, and it was the holidays! I gave notice to my longtime employer, sold the house and packed our belongings in 10 days, and with the help of many friends, family members, and my Higher Power, we completed the move.
While this new opportunity has at times been daunting, as new jobs often are, I am grateful to be connecting with and of service to Al‑Anon members and newcomers every day. Time with my youngest son and his family is a bonus!
By Anne P., Group Services Specialist
The Forum, November 2021
Feel free to reprint this article on your service arm website or newsletter, along with this credit line: Reprinted with permission of The Forum, Al-Anon Family Group Headquarters, Inc., Virginia Beach, VA.
Congratulations! And, thank you for sharing your amazing experience, strength and hope which I think helps see how a higher power works in our lives. This shows how the program works in all areas of our life. I have been similarly blessed by the miraculous guidance available when I am open to see and willing to act.
Thanks again!
Having wanted to learn more about the WSO I am greatful that I can want to be involved in as many ways as possible in the program and as I near 23 years I work the steps in many ways as attending meetings and doing service is critical knowing Al-Anon wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for the members from the head of WSO to the desperate newcomer going to their 1st meeting as I’m at peace with the program as a whole