I avoid certain meetings like the plague if they are talking war stories rather than solution. It's interesting how much meetings can vary. Some carry a great message and some not so much. Someone told once that there is no such thing as a bad meeting but I disagree.

Finding meetings that uplifted me and gave me something powerful to take away with me were essential for me in the early days. Even now I don't want to spend an hour and a half in the kind of company that sees people leaving without a smile on their face.

Don't get me wrong, some of us had it really bad, me included, but I am far more excited about what life can be like, and is, in a mearningful sobriety. Struggles are often shared but so is what we did to address those struggles using a spiritual path.

They say take what you need and LEAVE the rest.

Also, if I don't like a meeting, I don't go. But for me there are dozens of meetings in my area..you may not have that option.

You could form another healthy habit on that night if you cant find an alternative meeting. Exercise, visiting healthy people, doing something you haven't done in a long time (movie), etc.

I stopped going to AA. I wasn't finding a solution. After I realized that i had the power to stop drinking, I used that power.

I did the same thing Imper (after 6 of my 8 years)...but in the beginning AA really saved my life the first year..only for the fact that I needed somewhere to go and something to do..besides drinking.

I will admit some of the quotes still help today that I learned..but pretty much after you get the concept of how to live better....I had been able to do it on my own for 2 years and now I am doing at 20 days.
:)

Thank you

This gives me more strength. My sponsor took me to this particular meeting. I am going to just tell him that I literally felt out of place and found myself extremely anxious. There were 25-30 people. I prefer smaller meetings from 5 to 10 people, 15 at the most. I am still early in my sobriety (but it's mine) I should be allowed to choose which meetings I attend and which I prefer not to attend. I wish I could just quit on my own but I feel that I really need structure and guidance as I navigate the steps.

Thank you for your feedback

I think it is great that your going to AA. Whatever works for YOU...you are absolutely right and if this meeting doesn't work...dump it.

Like I said...AA saved my life the first year...just one day at a time.
Enjoy your sobriety!

there are healthy meetings and sick meetings....avoid sick meetings....ask sponsor why he took you to this particular meeting? Because he might have had a specific reason....you choosing not to go again should be ok and sponsor should never demand you attend certain meetings....your experience will grow as you go to meetings....I mostly do mens meetings...very few open meetings and very few with mix of men and women...I can relate better....and not be thinking of skirt chasing....:0)