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 guess the time has come. I went to an open AA meeting on Friday (8/6). It is a speaker meeting, and generally there is an Alanon speaker that speaks the first half and an AA speaker that speaks the second half. The chair of the meeting asked if I would speak this coming Friday (8/13).
The last time someone asked me to speak at the Friday meeting, I said no. My fear completely paralyzed me and I felt like I just wanted to run. It's only a few short months later, now, and again my first instinct was to say NO WAY and run. I didn't this time, though. I talked to my sponsor and then agreed to speak at the meeting. I feel nervous when I think about telling my story, but the truth is that I have been thinking about my story a lot lately. I think I'm being called to tell it now.
I've spent pretty much my entire life trying to fly under the radar and not get noticed for anything - good or bad. I hate having attention focused on me, and even now it's sometimes difficult for me to share in meetings and I blush scarlet when I do. It's funny - I also spent my entire life trying to hide and pretend that alcoholism and abuse were not a part of my family of origin. The disparity between what I felt inside and how I acted outwardly was overwhelming. I'm trying to keep in mind that I don't have to hide anymore - that it is okay for the inside to match the outside - and that maybe I can bring hope to someone still suffering like I was before the program.
You'll do great. Look what you have done here. You have given TONS of people here hope & strength including me. If you don't mind a suggestion, you might think of that group as your MIP family. Tell your story the way you have told us. Hope this helps. Sending lots of positive happy thoughts for you. Can't wait to hear how wonderful you were. Much love & 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.
Good luck to you!!! Prayers are with you while you prepare what you will say. I am sure that by doing so, will help aid you in your recovery. What's that saying... the truth will set you free.... You will do great. Can you share it with us when you complete it? I personally would love to read it. Peace.
Good luck and thank you for doing the great service of letting others draw ESH from your story. It's a great milestone, and blushing or not, others will appreciate the great gift you are giving them.
Aloha Rabbit...I'm in support of your service. You will become an instrument of your HP's will and desire to help others attain and maintain their recovery. How humbling a gift!! Let your HP guide you thru it and ask your sponsor to keep you propped up so you don't fall down either too early or at all. In support for your ESH. (((((hugs)))))
White rabbit good for you !!! Glad you decided to share your esh .....You never know what words will fall upon someone who so desparately needs to hear just what you have to say. Good luck and blessings your way !!!
