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
Awareness of Alcoholism—Opening More Eyes in April
The literature table at my first Al‑Anon meeting immediately caught my attention. Suddenly, I had access to information about alcoholism and its effects on the families of alcoholics. At the time, I felt incredibly isolated because I had
Facing Change Together
The 19th International Al‑Anon General Services Meeting (IAGSM) opened on Wednesday, October 3, 2018, at the Holiday Inn in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Rosie M., Chairperson of the International Coordination Committee, warmly welcomed representatives from 16 structures by saying, “Our
From Rejection to Acceptance
Ever since I was a child, I had a ringside seat to my alcoholic/addict’s chaotic behavior. I heard a lot of loud, angry words and cursing. It was not unusual for me to see a fist or open hand
I Was Finally Able To Take off My Armor
Growing up in an alcoholic home, I had to figure so much out for myself. As a result, I developed an arrogant, smug belief that I had all the answers. I felt that I was the one who had
I Thought I Was Helping
I came to Al‑Anon because I had an alcoholic child. I felt miserable because my child was in trouble and frustrated because I couldn’t seem to do anything about it. I also felt angry that he lied and took
Terms Used in Al-Anon Service
Area World Service Committee (AWSC) This Committee consists of the officers of the Assembly, District Representatives, Coordinators and liaison members, who meet between Assemblies to discuss Area and District matters, plan the agenda for the Assembly, initiate projects