When I first came to Al‑Anon, I was depressed and sad. I didn’t know how to live with active alcoholism, and honestly, I didn’t know how to go on living anymore. I could have died, but Al‑Anon saved my life.
Later, when I had been in the Al‑Anon program for over a decade, a series of life events overwhelmed me. I was barely able to attend meetings and had limited time to talk with my Sponsor or work the Steps. I began once again to slip into a place of despair. Fortunately for me, most of my friends are in recovery and recognized my declining mental health. They suggested I renew my commitment to meetings and Step work. One friend pleaded with me to attend 30 meetings in 30 days—at least a meeting a day, no matter what. And because I knew I was dying, I made up my mind to do this.
Life didn’t stop and things were crazy, but I went to a meeting every day like my life depended on it. I also started working the Steps from the beginning again, and I prioritized doing Step work each week.
It worked! It really worked. For the second time, Al‑Anon saved my life. I know and have a real experience that proves that the Twelve Steps of the Al‑Anon program, along with a Sponsor and a home group, will work to change my life. I know the way out of the pit of despair. It is through recovery and the Al‑Anon program. This is a gift that I have a responsibility to share with others. Those who do know can be a help to those who don’t even know that they don’t know.
Today, I show up at meetings regularly. I do Step work. I reason things out with fellow members in Al‑Anon, and I make myself available to help others. When I was in a dark place, I wasn’t alone. Now I can make sure that is true for others.
By Shiloh W., Montana
The Forum, March 2022
Feel free to reprint this article on your service arm website or newsletter, along with this credit line: Reprinted with permission of The Forum, Al-Anon Family Group Headquarters, Inc., Virginia Beach, VA.