I just wanted to share my experience with anonymity when I first came in because it was brought up in a meeting the other day. Mind you, this is my experience.
When I came to AA and started working the program I didn't mention it to my immediate family. As a matter of fact, believe it or not, my mom, dad, and sister didn't even know I had a problem with alcohol. At least to the extent that I knew I had a problem. I lived with a friend and they really didn't know I was drinking as much as I was. I didn't tell them I was "in" AA because I wanted them to actually SEE the change in me and my life. I wanted them to be able to make their own assumption based on changes they were able to see me making. My family doesn't have any experience with anyone in recovery except myself. Staying anonymous for about 3-5 months with them, allowed them some time to see the miracle happen. Looking back I think this helped protect the anonymity of AA and myself.
I also think deep down, I didn't want my ego to take a hit if I wasn't able to follow through with AA. Ultimately, I knew my motives ni not telling them were right and the book teaches me that. I'm sure someone else has had this same type of experience. Additionally, when I first got sober I felt the urge to tell everyone "I'M SOBER! WHAT A WAY TO LIVE!" and wanted everyone around me to change. Don't be quick to want to YELL to everyone. You'll see in the long run it's better for your protection and for AA. With these fortunate experiences I will celebrate 3 years Sept 17th!
Thanks to all who support MIP! I enjoy this board!
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Willingness without action is fantasy!
Say what you mean. Mean what you say. But don't say it mean.
Attraction not promotion! Congrats on your upcoming soberversary. :)
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I think there's an invisible principle of living...if we believe we're guided through every step of our lives, we are. Its a lovely sight, watching it work.
I dont talk about it much either. I think a lot of people might not understand or see me in a negative way somehow and not realize im in a self help program. Theres too much controversy and battling opinions about which group or religion or spiritual path your on too, so I just keep it mostly to myself pretty much all the time.
It's a balance. Knowing when and when not to disclose things is a boundary issue. My boundaries sucked when I first came into AA. I'm still working on it.
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Keep coming back. It works if you work it. So work it. You're worth it!
