Baby-Stepping toward Recovery
When I came to Al‑Anon several months ago, I had no idea of the serenity I would start to enjoy in time. During my first few weeks of attending meetings, I was exhausted, frazzled, and fearful, but I
Can We Use Discontinued Literature in Meetings?
I loved hearing about my family’s history from my older relatives as I grew up, so it seemed only natural that I eventually inherited the role of family historian. Through the years, I’ve accumulated not only facts and
The CAL Process—Al-Anon’s Group Conscience in Action
When I first came to Al‑Anon, I didn’t have time for patience. Although it had taken me years to recognize that I was affected by living with alcoholism, I suddenly expected an overnight recovery. In those early years,
Only What Is Mine To Do
Before I came to Al‑Anon, I felt that it was my job to make sure I kept my household running on an even keel. What an enormous job that was, especially living with an active alcoholic. I was
Keeping My Peace
My peace belongs to me, but it is so easy to give it away or let someone take it. One gem I have heard in Al‑Anon meetings is “Don’t take the bait.” I may be quite happy and
Moving On from My Past
Before I came to Al‑Anon, I had wrapped myself up in so many layers of denial that to sit in a room and admit the truth to myself—let alone strangers—seemed crazy. Part of me wanted to cling to
When I Took the Risk
The three-sided triangle that symbolizes our fellowship is a reminder that the Steps are for my personal recovery, the Traditions are for my use in my relationships with others, and the Concepts guide me as I perform service.
The World Service What?—the “World Service Handbook”
When I started attending Al‑Anon meetings, I remember seeing a three-ring binder in the group’s supply cabinet. I had no idea what was in the booklets it contained. A couple of years later, I began working at a
Not Cowardice, but Courage
When my spouse retired, his behaviour changed. I couldn’t understand what was happening, especially when he became verbally aggressive toward me for trivial matters. I found an online story from someone describing what she termed a dry drunk.
Today I Am Somebody
Growing up in an alcoholic family, I learned to survive by keeping my opinions and thoughts to myself. I judged myself to be a nobody. Later, this affected my relationships with my husband and three daughters. When one
A Glimmer of Hope
As I drove toward the church on that warm, dusky night, I desperately hoped the meeting would be canceled or that no one else would show up. I felt the knot in my stomach tighten as I pulled into
How Can I Attend Al-Anon Meetings?
My disease does not take a break just because it’s the middle of the night, a holiday, or when I’m on vacation. Did you know that Al‑Anon meetings are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week