KEEP COMING BACK

Oct 1, from “Strengthening My Recovery” daily reader

“We keep coming back because ACA is a way of life that fulfills us emotionally and spiritually.” BRB p. 334.”

“When we first walked into an ACA meeting, we may understandably have felt apprehension. We may have hit a bottom and went to the meeting hoping to find relief, but were equally afraid that we might not find any answers.

We may have found a meeting where there were some light-hearted people who didn’t seem at all like our family members. Or maybe the meeting resonated with a pall of silence and sadness. In either case, what we found was a group of authentic people willing to be happy or sad and not deny their truths.

Someone asked us if we were new and if we had any questions. Perhaps we found it hard to even speak at that point. But we were invited to “Keep Coming Back,” and told that when we had questions, someone would be glad to help us find the answers.

Now, as we keep coming back, we see the beauty of it all. Since our first meeting, members were receptive, open, and honest. They encouraged us to get comfortable. As we have heard the format repeated each time, our sense of safety and trust has grown. The people in the meeting have allowed us to be ourselves. All of this occurred through actions that radiated love, acceptance, and understanding.

On this day I renew my commitment to be part of a group whose actions come from an attitude of love and understanding of my needs as an adult child.”

My experience:

I was so moved by my meetings that I wrote a poem about it.

I will never be the same

It never dawned on me when I walked into the room

The same for which I was, was destined for doom

As I walked into the space with my heart heavy sighing

I saw people cheerful and laughing and I saw some that were crying

This spot I entered was a wonder to me

Some place that I never thought I would be

But how could this exist without me ever knowing

A place that could truly help, my mind was blown

Smiles were freely given and even many a hug

Honestly, I was put aback, and my shoulders did shrug

Love from the entrance was given to me

But belief I deserved, dogged and eluded thee

They said that they would love and accept no matter what

They just wanted my acceptance as they already accepted me such

This initiated tears like I have never before

But like I would have in the past, I did not run for the door

I stayed to hear what more they had to say

And then like they asked, I came back another day

The folks in this room have seen me weep more than any other

These people now, I consider sisters and brothers

So, back and back continue I came

I realize now that I will never be the same

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