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Houston Al-Anon | Alateen
Members Interested in Speaking
For Houston and Surrounding Areas
Introduction
When you are asked as a member of Al-Anon or Alateen to speak before an audience for the first time, you may experience a momentary sinking feeling in the pit of your stomach, wobbly knees, clammy hands, and an overall sensation of terror. But after these perfectly normal reactions pass and you have heard yourself saying, "Yes," when you really meant, "No," you will find that a wonderfully enlightening adventure is in store for you. With a little encouragement, and a reliance on a Higher Power, everyone can speak. The only ingredient needed is the willingness to try. Members report that speaking before a group adds another dimension of growth to their Al-Anon experience. It's an opportunity to discover a new side of yourself, one you may not have realized existed.
Tips
WHEN ASKED TO SPEAK, FIND OUT
- If the meeting is open to those who are not members of Al-Anon Family Groups, so you can decide in advance how best to direct your talk;
- How long you will be expected to talk;
- If you will be expected to participate in a question and answer or open discussion session after your talk is concluded;
- If you are expected to tell your personal recovery story or to discuss a particular topic of the Al-Anon program;
- If you are expected to explain some of Al-Anon/Alateen’s history.
During open Al-Anon functions, the speakers are often taped. Therefore, it is up to members who consent to having their talk taped to protect their anonymity as they see fit. These tapes become the property of the taper and may be distributed via multi-media.
PLAN WHAT TO SAY
- Bear in mind that the purpose of your talk is to carry the Al-Anon/Alateen message of recovery by sharing your experience, strength, and hope.
- Give a brief description of yourself before you came to Al-Anon/Alateen, concentrating on your behavior and not that of the alcoholic or others.
- Describe how you have changed your life by using the tools of the program.
- Share on a particular Step, slogan, Al-Anon or Alateen book, or pamphlet that was especially helpful.
- Tell what Al-Anon means to you.
- Share how you are applying the Al-Anon program to your life and attitudes.
- Focus on your recovery.
- If asked to lead a closed meeting on a particular subject such as a Step, a slogan, or a topic from any of the hardcover books, it helps to express your views on the topic as it relates to your own experience.
- If you are asked to choose a subject, the Guideline, Suggested Programs for Meetings (G-13), will be helpful.
- It helps for Alateen speakers at Al-Anon groups to stress the need for and role of Alateen sponsors.
- Some members find that preparing a brief outline helps.
- Others use an index card with an opening sentence, some key phrases they can call upon in case they get lost somewhere in the middle, and a closing statement for a graceful conclusion.
- If facing an audience is a problem, try using the technique of looking at a few individuals in different parts of the room.
- Speak so you can be heard.
- You are interesting — so be yourself and speak from the heart; don’t be afraid to let others know you.
- You have an important message. Al-Anon Family Groups has brought you some peace of mind; let everyone know it.
- If your talk helps just one person, it has been successful. Remember, wherever you go, most people are friendly and receptive.
- You’re there to carry the message that Al-Anon Family Groups offers a new way of life to those suffering because of a loved one’s alcoholism.
- Al-Anon
- Yourself
- Your interpretation of the Twelve Steps
SHARE JOYFULLY
- Describe the effect Al-Anon or Alateen has had on your life. Concentrate on your growth and not that of the alcoholic or others.
- Take some literature along for reference and perhaps some extra pieces to hand out.
- Take the time to talk to potential newcomers on a one-to-one basis. Be sure to have names and phone numbers for referrals.
Reprinted with permission of Al-Anon Family Group Headquarters, Inc., Virginia Beach, VA.