Billy, that's what I identified with in the rooms, the feelings. I'm with you all the way on this one. I do remain available to the newcomer. I'm still not "cured" but can admit when I'm wrong (most of the time,lol)

I never could find the differences. From the word 'hello...', they are me and I am them. That's what makes it work. Home at last.

As individuals we are unique in our lives and histories. In alcoholism the difference is only in the people, places and things we played with things and what ledge we dropped to before the climb back up began.

As individuals we are unique in our lives and histories. In alcoholism the difference is only in the people, places and things we played with and what ledge we dropped to before the climb back up began.

I like that about the 'ledge we dropped to before the climb back up began'. I was told early on that you can get off the roundabout any time.

As soon as I went to my first meeting I identified, I knew I was where I belonged. Today I do listen to the similarities and not the differences.

On the judgement of others, boy did I used to judge at the meetings. I couldnt understand why people said that things they did or acted the way they do. I would say 'he' 'she' and 'they' to my sponsor and that was part of my growth.

Today, is different. Today I do not judge anyone there. Today I only need to know why I am there and that I work the 12 step programme to the best of my ability.

All I know is that every time I go to a meeting, I feel the hope. I hear the hope and I see the hope in every single person no matter what they are going through... Just their presence provides hope. The hope in AA rooms is just so powerful and strong. It resonates. We are all there for each other even when we don't know it.

Nods head DT, yep, it was the hope that you talk about that kept me going back.....I knew these people had something.....today I am proud to have my bum on a seat and to be part of the hope for the meeting :)

Whenever I heard the Promises, I would get goose bumps. Hearing that, along with listening to people share their experience, strength & hope is what kept me coming back. I desperately wanted what you had!

Glad-I didn't get goose bumps, but cried every time I heard the Promises read. Especially at "we will comprehend the word serenity & we will know peace" for about my first 4 months of meetings...in every single meeting, that made me tear up.

I've finally reached a point where I don't blubber at every meeting and it's true..I AM amazed & I'm not 1/2 way through. I thought you guys were full of poop! hee hee.. :)