It feels good to be able to look back to my first Al‑Anon meeting and see how far I have come.

When my son was in a rehabilitation center, I felt such relief to hear that he had a disease. Once I heard that, my mind and my heart opened to the possibility of hope and a brighter future. It was joyous news to hear that I didn’t cause his alcoholism, I can’t cure it, and I can’t control it. Someone gave me a One Day at a Time in Al‑Anon (B‑6) daily reader and a meeting schedule, and encouraged me to attend more meetings.

That is exactly what I did, and it’s what I continue to do with the encouragement of those who came before me. These members continue to give of themselves by offering their unconditional love and sharing their own experience, strength, and hope. Now it is my turn to share my own experience, strength, and hope and to embrace newcomers who walk through the doors of Al‑Anon.

By Julie B., Florida

Al-Anon Faces Alcoholism 2020