The material presented
here is not Al-Anon Conference Approved Literature. It is a method
to exchange
information, ideas, feelings, problems and solutions on a personal
level.
Well, I went to my 2nd f2f meeting tonight and it turned out great. I didn't say anything during the meeting, but I did talk to some people after the meeting. Anyway, I related to alot of what was said and there were many times when I wanted to say something but just couldn't get myself to talk.
I told someone exactly that after the meeting and she said that she doesn't think about what she's going to say, it just comes out. I told her what if I get stuck and stop talking and everyone looks at me? I guess I will get over that at some point.
Tonight was supposed to be a step meeting but because of so many newcomers they decided to have a newcomer meeting and basically talk about things people wanted to talk about. I thought that was nice, since step 8 was supposed to be discussed and I'm nowhere near that.
So I plan on getting to my 3rd meeting tomorrow. I know a few people I met tonight will be there, and that helps a lot. I also found out that there are 3 different places that hold meetings here in the area, which means there is one available every day except sunday.
Great courage and persistence. Recovery I learned comes in time. I also learned that I get more from listening with an open mind rather than one cluttered with fear and anxiety and thoughts. I listened, thought about what I heard later and in time even the fear and anxiety were gone.
Keep coming back and going to meetings. It's all family
Good for you! Keep going back. Don't worry about not talking at first. I was so scared too. The first time I talked in a meeting was during one of our on-line meetings here. Even then, I was terrified. At least I didn't have to see any faces! You'll be just fine. Love and blessings to you and your family.
Live strong, Karilynn & Pipers Kitty
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It's your life. Take no prisoners. You will have it your way.
That's so great you have already found people you feel comfortable with and have options for meetings everyday! When I share, I try to not thinka bout what I am going to say too much. When I run out of words, I wait for a second or two to see if something comes that maybe I hadn't even thought of yet... that has happened to me. Just so you know too, if there is ever anything off topic but that is on your mind, I would encourage you to share anyway and so would anyone/everyone else. No one there will be judging you & every one felt scared the first few times. Nice progress!
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Light, Love, Peace, Blessings & Healing to Us All. God's Will Be Done. Amen.