Finding My Voice

When I attended my first S-Anon meetings, I could only listen. My voice just choked up when I simply tried to read any of the opening meeting materials. I listened to others share things to which I could and sometimes could not relate. I liked that the group members said, “thank you” after someone shared. I could say, “thank you.” I said it with heartfelt gratitude, because I was hearing some things that I could not express. I also appreciated that when some members shared, we laughed as we identified with things we had also done or felt.

Eventually, I was able to share within the group. Sharing helps my own recovery, and when I share, people thank me. I am grateful that my sharing may help someone else. I understand better today that this is a way I can carry the message of my own recovery.

Reprinted from Working the S-Anon Program, 2nd Edition, page 100.