Click on any term above to read more about it.
Steps and Traditions
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The Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions are the founding principles to guide us in approaching our personal challenges in new, more effective ways. These principals are both practical and spiritual* in nature. This link will lead to a printable list of Al-Anon's TWELVE STEPS and TWELVE TRADITIONS.
*A word about "God"... While the use of the word "God" appears in many of the steps and traditions, this is a spiritual -- and not a religious -- program. In other words, Al-Anon does not define anyone's Higher Power or belief system in order to be a member. While many see "a power greater than themselves" as a Supreme Being, many members define "G.O.D. as Good Orderly Direction" or think of a Higher Power as the collective wisdom of the Al-Anon program. In this way, even self-claimed atheists can have a higher power to aid in recovery. Still others use the term 'Universe', 'Providence', 'Nature' and more. This is very personal and each person discovers their own sense of the Intelligence that goes beyond their capacity to solve their problems alone. Regardless of one's mindset or belief in this matter, it is the "Spiritual Awakening" (the reclaiming, refreshing and resurgence of one's Inner Spirit after the devastation of dealing with substance abuse) to which we refer and to which we aspire. top of page |
Meetings
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The life's blood of the program is when members gather together to share their experience, strength and hope with each other in-person. In meetings we do not talk over each other; and, we follow a simple yet effective format that gives each person a chance to speak, if they desire to do so.
Some of the greatest benefits of meetings is to know we are not alone; that help and solutions are available; and that we learn and practice how to let go of the struggle and unsuccessful ways we have dealt with a loved one's substance problems. There are electronic Al-Anon meetings. Please follow this link to the Al-Anon/Alateen World Service website and look for 'How to Find a Meeting' on that site for more information. top of page |
Literature
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There are more than 88 books, pamphlets, magazine and other publications that are available for purchase as approved Al-Anon literature. The daily reading of Al-Anon literature is one of the most valuable resources and tools of recovery.
Many of the most widely used books and pamphlets are available at local meetings for purchase. One can order books online from the Al-Anon/Alateen World Service Organization. Go to the following link LITERATURE to order online or get more information about Al-Anon publications. top of page |
Telephone
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We use the telephone to stay in touch with other Al-Anon members between meetings, to discuss issues that arise or simply 'stay close to the program.'
Phone conversations can become a lifeline when a meeting is not available and things arise that could use thoughtful discussion. Most meetings have a phone list with first names and numbers of members who are available to speak outside of the meeting times. Individual members often exchange phone numbers to lend each other support outside of group meetings and events. top of page |
Slogans
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We have many Slogans that we strive to call to mind or remind each other when we experience a fear, upset, confusion or anything else that may be troubling us .
At first glance, these Slogans may seem oversimplified. Yet, as we continue to grow in the Al-Anon program, these short phrases can directly take our minds to powerful principles that can help us and calm us when we need emotional and spiritual support. top of page |
Sponsorship
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No matter how long we may be in Al-Anon having someone to speak with on a regular basis who knows more about us and our situation can be a powerful resource.
Sponsors are normally members who have experience in working the Steps and Traditions and can serve as a positive guide in our recovery process. After a newcomer becomes familiar with members who attend meetings regularly, he/she can approach a more experienced member about being a Sponsor. top of page |
Fellowship
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Often Al-Anon members gather outside of meetings to simply share and communicate more about their lives and recovery. This is typically done by going for coffee or a meal after the meeting or at another arranged time.
Other ways to enjoy fellowship and meet new members is to attend an Event or Conference being sponsored by a local Al-Anon group. Plus regional, state and even national events are held. Attending these gathering increases our ability to benefit from the wisdom of others and enjoy a greater connection to the recovery process. top of page |
The Serenity Prayer
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Regardless of how one defines -- or does not define -- their Higher Power, the Serenity Prayer has been used by millions of Twelve Step members since the inception of these recovery institutions.
The simple, profound wisdom in the words recounted aloud or silently, collectively or alone, provides a spiritual leaning post and a powerful reminder and remedy in dealing with upsets, over which we may have no control. The Serenity Prayer simply states: "God, grant me the serenity to accept
the things I cannot change; The courage to change the things I can; and, The wisdom to know the difference." |
Service
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Service can be any act or aid lent to support and help another member, an Al-Anon group, or any of the governing local, state and national boards of the Al-Anon/Alateen program.
Service can include being a representative at a larger level to being available to be a personal Sponsor to simply help setting up/taking down chairs at a local meeting. Once a new member is familiar with and plans to stay with the Al-Anon program, it is suggested that he/she strive to abide by the saying: "Freely ye have received; freely shall ye give." Sometimes even the simple attendance at a meeting can be an act of service, which frequently provides a supportive, positive presence to a meeting. Service has its own rewards. Service is instrumental in keeping meetings strong and thriving; and, Al-Anon could not exist without 'giving back' no matter how large or small. The website has been created and is maintained through a completely voluntary act of service and is funded by local group donations. top of page |