01/09/2023
“When I first started in Al-Anon, I assumed that carrying the message… meant explicitly talking to them about the Al-Anon program. Since then, my understanding has expanded exponentially. In reality, only a fraction of the time when I am doing Twelfth-Step service do I even mention Al-Anon by name. The truth is that many people, though they are suffering, are not ready to hear about the program. For whatever reason, the thought of attending even one meeting is too threatening to some, and introducing the Al-Anon program before they are ready may actually do more harm than good.
“Still, that does not mean these individuals are not open to other suggestions or at least support. For this reason, the bulk of my interactions with those who are not already in the program are of a more general nature. I find that practicing kindness and compassion—and, if requested, offering a few suggestions based on solutions that have worked in my life—can often go a long way toward alleviating the suffering of others. In some cases, these acts may ultimately pave the way for that person to find Al-Anon. But, even when it does not, that act of service is never wasted. The beauty of this approach is that it makes every situation ripe for service. I can literally ‘practice these principles in all [my] affairs.’”
“Paving the Way with Kindness and Compassion,” “The Forum,” December 2022
Al-Anon is a Twelve Step program for the families and friends of alcoholics. Find out more about the program at:
🔹 https://bit.ly/3jDPexb
