Conferences, Conventions and Community in 12-step
Programs
What I find most exhilarating
about being a member of a 12-step program is that there is one place on this
earth that understands my weaknesses, shortcomings and potential. Being in the room with other recovering persons,
without concerns about professional standing, economic wealth or gender, is
such a relief. I can be me, the sick
person I am who seeks wellness with little or no judgment from my peers.
But the best part about being
in recovery, for me, are the conferences.
Boy oh boy, they are so much fun.
We gather to hear the message of recovery from each other, relate to
each other’s past, present and future, while participating in healthy
activities like karaoke, dancing, buffet dinners, comedy shows and more. It is the part of our fellowship that society
knows nothing about and will never hear about because they are so busy judging
our label and disease.
 |
| Stuart Miles |
Needless to say, the recent attendance
at a conference brought me joy. I am so
happy for the opportunity to be rejuvenated, loved by my peers who have similar
pasts and presents, and to hear many, many messages of hope rooted in one
simple fact: We Do Recover.
If you have never been to a
conference and are in recovery, I suggest you find one and enjoy yourself. Meet new people, try new things and know that
our bad days end and new days unfold if we stay in the process of positive,
healthy self-care.
We recover in community. We get better. We reclaim our place in our own lives when we
connect with others who inspire us, love us and speak truth to us in ways we
can’t do alone.
Be blessed.
M
