An Al-Anon Adult Child Finds Her Way
I didn’t know when I walked into my first Al‑Anon meeting what was wrong with me. I felt hopeless—not from my inability to solve an alcoholic’s problem, but from failing to solve my own
Planning Al-Anon’s Future—One Conversation at a Time
The Big Question session of the International Al‑Anon General Services Meeting (IAGSM) agenda is an opportunity to explore and speculate on the future. As a newcomer in service, these were the discussions I
Welcoming Newcomers in the New Year
Although the family disease of alcoholism never takes a vacation, the post-holiday season is a time when many individuals suffering from the family disease of alcoholism seek comfort in Al‑Anon. Here are some
Concept Nine and the Principle of Flexibility
Concept Nine states: “Good personal leadership at all service levels is a necessity. In the field of world service the Board of Trustees assumes the primary leadership.” My first thought is, “What does
Reaching Out to Help Children of Alcoholics
It was a cold, dark, February night when I came to my first Al‑Anon meeting. I was young in years (only a couple years too late for Alateen), but I felt ancient, worn-out,
Every Moment Can Be an Opportunity for Growth
My former Sponsor used to share a “growth opportunity” expression—one not appropriate for polite company—which reminded me that good can be found in every challenging situation. The expression often allowed me to laugh instead of cry. It usually also reminded me both of our saying, “This