SAFETY
Oct 23, from “Strengthening My Recovery” daily reader
Our meetings offer a safe environment for adult children to share their common experiences.” BRB p. 333
“Because of the many kinds of abuse and/or neglect we’ve experienced, both as children and adults, it is a huge issue for us to be able to connect with ourselves, other adult children, and a Higher Power.
We can begin by just showing up at ACA meetings. We are not forced to share; the choice is ours. We work at our own pace, perhaps just observing and getting a feel for things. And when we are ready, we can begin to absorb and actually work the ACA program.
As we break out of isolation, we realize we are not alone. We start working the Steps and understanding the Traditions. We may use the tool of journaling as a way to uncover what’s going on for us. But however we do things, we let the ACA program, other people, and our Higher Power into our lives.
There is no special order to how things have to work. We are unique, and we do recovery in the way that works best for us. It’s only important that we do it, because we deserve the safe, healthy connections that are now available to us.
On this day I know that my meetings provide the safety that helps me continue my personal growth.”
My experience:
Safety is huge: Safety from judgement; safety coming from understanding; safety in understanding that we matter. It took me a while to progress in my program. For months, I just showed up. It was all I could I do. Showing up did get me a lot of smiles and ACA hugs at the end of the meeting. Then I started service work by helping to clean up after the meeting. During the clean-up I started talking to others. Then I was able to start sharing. I then found a sponsor and started working the steps. All of these steps were able to come about as I allowed myself to feel safe. Some are able to move more quickly as they allow themselves to feel safe earlier. Whichever path you find yourself on, just know that there is safety in the rooms and the program is yours to work, at your pace and on your timeframes. We will all be there to help guide you through the process. We can’t wait to see you on the other side!!
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