Al-Anon service brought her closer to her Higher Power

I was consumed with fear. I had to humble myself and ask my daughter to ask her Alateen friend to ask her Al-Anon mother to call me. My new friend picked me up and took me to my first Al-Anon meeting.

I could hardly articulate my own name at those first meetings. I found my voice after about 18 months of continuous attendance. I could only share briefly with the other members, but I was proud when I could do that. As my confidence increased, I was able to chair meetings.

I was encouraged to take on service roles in my home group. Ultimately, I agreed to chair our local Intergroup. This confidence affected my work life as well, and I learned to enjoy chairing selection panels in my role as a human resources technician.

Sometime in this process I learned that my Higher Power, whom I chose to call God, would be with me always and would calm my mind, lead me in the right direction, and give me the necessary words to speak. My job was to ask for guidance. Life has become more peaceful and serene as I remember that this is all I need to do.

Today, I am now involved as a coordinator at the Assembly level. I have finally been able to share my story at both A.A. and Al-Anon functions—a huge leap of faith for me.

Service work has given me the opportunity to learn that God can be trusted always. I absolutely believe that this comes as a result of my many years of being a trusted servant in our wonderful program, always allowing God to be my guide.

By Sharon C., Canada
The Forum, July 2009

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