While in treatment, you no doubt heard many suggestions of how to maintain
your sobriety. Many of us have found the answer in the Twelve Steps as
outlined in the book "Alcoholics Anonymous". We also found that we could not
stay sober ourselves. For that reason, the AA groups exist to help us learn
how to live the AA way of life.
It has been our experience that attending AA meetings was critical to our
survival. (There are over 1100 meetings each week in southeast Michigan.
Meetings are listed on this website.) It was here that we began to get a
sense of belonging. It was also here that many of us found sponsors to help
guide us through the Twelve Steps. (More information on sponsorship can be
local AA office in the phonebook on how to get this pamphlet.) When we found
a group that we liked, we made it our "Home Group" and became active in
service work, another critical step in becoming useful and whole.
Another suggestion was to get phone numbers of other members and stay in
contact with them. Alcoholics Anonymous is often referred to as a
"Fellowship" and it is through constant contact with other members that we
begin to relearn how to become a happy and useful member of society.
In short, it is our experience that to become sober and stay sober, the
answer lies in the spiritual solution found in the Twelve Steps as outlined
in the book "Alcoholics Anonymous". Here are some suggestions:
*Get a Homegroup
This is where you attend regularly, greet newcomers, take on
responsibilities and sustain friendships.
*Get a Sponsor
A sponsor is someone who takes you through the Twelve Steps
of AA. They explain the principals of the program and introduce you to other
members of the Fellowship. Some things to look for in a sponsor are:
-Someone who also has a sponsor.
-Someone who is active in service work within the Fellowship
-And of course someone who has also gone
through the Twelve Steps with a sponsor and is practicing the AA way of
life.
*Get Involved in Service
This can be anything from making coffee, greeting newcomers
at the door, giving rides to other members or just calling someone newer
than you. Many found this type of giving to be the most rewarding part of
our program.
Remember that we stay sober, just one day at a time. Recovery is a program
of action. Get active in working the steps with a sponsor. Get active in
service work. Get active in the Fellowship and a whole new wonderful world
will open for you.
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