This month’s topic is one that led me into service. My very first experience with Public Information was working with the PI committee in my home group and district doing talks at High Schools, Middle Schools and Universities. We were taught how to speak at non-Alcoholics Anonymous meetings what we do and what we do not do.
The first paragraph in our Public Information Workbook states, “Public Information in Alcoholics Anonymous means carrying the message of recovery to the still suffering alcoholic by informing the general public about the A.A. program. We carry the message by getting in touch with and responding to the media, schools, industry, and other organizations which can report on the nature and purpose of A.A. and what it can do for alcoholics.”
My biggest takeaway from our first PI Quarterly was to help our PI Chairs with carrying the message. On our agenda for our quarterly in May we will be doing just that. We will be doing training on how to speak at non A.A. meetings and how to conduct workshops. Cindy our PI chair from District 9 will be sharing how they have conducted their workshops. We will also be reviewing the tools from AA.org- watching the videos and how to incorporate them into our presentations.
On a personal note, I find this service work to be critical, letting the public know who we are and what we do. When I came into A.A. I didn’t know anything about our program. What I did know was that I was safe. I lived in a small community on an island off the coast of Florida and I was so concerned with my anonymity. I didn’t want anyone to know I was an alcoholic. I just wanted to focus on my recovery one day at a time. A.A. was my refuge, what a relief to discover there was a way out. I didn’t have to sign up, pay up, or pledge allegiance. I was welcomed, and I was a member of Alcoholics Anonymous simply for having a desire not to drink.
How things have changed! My experience drives my desire to share our principles, so people understand and learn about Alcoholics Anonymous. I know there are people like me who are frightened to admit they have a problem and seek help. The opportunity to share about A.A. might open the door for someone to seek shelter and take the hand of A.A.
Public Information service is basic 12th step work. I get to explain why I am here, and that is simply to carry the message.
In love & service,
Julie
