Locked In, But Not Locked Out

MY name is Adele and I am an alcoholic. I've been thinking a great deal lately, having been told to stay at home when possible, and to keep myself and others safe.

It has been a privilege to carry out phone service for AA for some while now, but never more so than during this pandemic. Even when it has not been possible to attend actual AA meetings, or to direct a potential newcomer to one, this wonderful Fellowship still has its doors and arms open, albeit with meetings online and Twelve-Step calls to offer support and comfort.

I've spoken to many on the AA phone line who have reached their point of utter despair, which has become worse during this lockdown. There are no pink fluffy clouds for me. I have up and down days, like anyone else, but I have the tools to deal with the bad and sad times nowadays. I can smile at my own silly behaviour and put it right. I lived on resentments before I joined AA and stopped using alcohol. Now I realise that I resented myself most of all, and my entire life was immersed on negativity. I hardly ever smiled or laughed as I never felt happy.

I am incredibly grateful these days to have a Programme to follow, and a Fellowship of which I am proud to be a member of.

ADELE, Sandhurst Newcomers