Im a Christian that happens to be an alcoholic. Sober for almost 2 months now, thanks to the good Lord above and AA. Ive noticed that a lot of AA members have significant levels of animosity towards organized religion, often justifiably. A VERY BIG portion of my life revolves around church (23 years in the ministry.) I always seem to hold a lot back when it comes my time to share, because I know there will be people that dont want to hear anything about church life and/or ministry. I want to share openly and honestly about the unique struggles Im facing, but I also want to be considerate of others. My only goal while attending meetings is to stay sober, NOT convert anyone. I would like suggestions from non-religious people especially. I want to stay true to my deeply held beliefs, yet still be considerate of non-religious folk. Is this even possible with so many folks who have been hurt by professing Christians?
As long as you keep your shares(in meetings) centered on your struggle with alcohol and not go off topic, you should be fine ... being in 'the ministry' poses some very unique situations I would think ... being as I picture you counseling others with problems of all kinds ... and our 'total honesty' way of life can be a bit of a mountain to climb ...
Congrats on two months ... that wasn't easy but it's a good start ...
I feel religious ties has caused more problems for alcoholics than any of us wish to admit ... For me, I have the God of my understanding as my Higher Power ... others are free to choose any power as long as they consider that power 'greater' than themselves ...
We, in AA, are made up of all walks of life so we learn to accept each other as we are ... because each one of us are trying to help each other stay sober ... that's it in a nut shell ... BUT we quickly learn not to force our religious views on anyone that doesn't ask us to ...
You asked a tough question and I'm not sure I answered it ... plus I am a Christian ... and you said you wanted responses from non religious types ... I am not religious, religion is man made, ... I consider myself more of the 'Spiritual' type ... if that makes any sense ...
Love ya man and God Bless, Pappy
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'Those who leave everything in God's hand will eventually see God's hand in everything.'
...I want to stay true to my deeply held beliefs, yet still be considerate of non-religious folk. Is this even possible with so many folks who have been hurt by professing Christians?
Yes, it is possible. I have seen it done.
I have a faith but am not very religious. In the real world, I mentally object if someone wants to interact with me by proselytizing about some religious sect or subject. I also mentally object object when someone does it in an AA meeting.
Mostly, it doesn't come up at the meetings I go to. That's because the group culture discourages it.
Yes it is possible. Just listen to and comply with the AA preamble and you'll be alright. Also, be open to any feed back that may be offered to you.
If religion is a big part of your story and it ties into aa, my opinion is just to steamroll through your shares about it. Be unapologetic and mow down any naysayers without worrying about their precious feelings.
You might help the light go on in someone elses head.
-- Edited by Visionz on Wednesday 23rd of May 2018 07:10:49 PM
Isn't it interesting that a religious man finds AA intolerant of religion, yet so many sick alcoholics wont go to AA because its too religious. The truth must be somewhere in the middle.
We used to have a few priests around AA and they were always popular. I don't remeber them ever pushing religion, but they were great to talk to one on one about life and spiritually. I believe you will find opportunities to minister if you get on with your program. Some will view your deeper spiritual knowledge as a great attraction, and they will approach you.
We are docked in Krabi, Thailand at the moment. I don't know if I told you, but I got married again earlier this year, something I didn't think I would get a second go at. Soon we are off to eastern Thailand, near the border with Cambodia. I have grown quite fond of old Thailand. Not so keen on the tourist centres. I stay away from themGood to see you still holding the fort with Tanin. You two make a great team.
