What's Your Address ?

Audio Version

Quite a few years ago now I joined my first group. I was asked by a group member, who incidentally became my first sponsor, if I would like to join. I was sober but a few weeks so I felt quite important that a long term member had asked me. My self-worth at that time was very low and this was the boost I needed.

"Be down half an hour before the meeting starts." I was told. My job was to welcome everyone to our meeting. I felt a valued member of the group right away. This was the beginning of my service in AA. Although I had been attending meetings almost every night now I really felt I was IN, a member of AA. Even when I was sharing I would introduce myself as "belonging to the Midcalder Saturday Night Group" which is now closed.

That was over 27 years ago and I haven't forgotten how important it is to be a participating member of a home group. To be there on time, to do my area of service that night with a welcoming smile and sincerely welcome everyone attending is what is required of me. Without active members groups wouldn't survive to carry the AA message to others. Doing service in my group also helps me to remain sober, which is the first part of my primary purpose.

Being in a home group is also my 'address' in the Fellowship. Another bonus is that members looking for me can usually find me there. Many thanks to my own home group for giving me these opportunities as well as all other members who play this vital part in keeping their home groups open for me and others.

Margaret

Cleland Monday Night 12 Step Group