Face-to-face communication is most effective

As people, we communicate in various ways. I believe that face-to-face communication is most effective to experience growth and hope at all levels of personal recovery and Al-Anon service.

As a new member in the fellowship, I came to appreciate the power of members’ sharing at meetings. Although I did not understand why, I realized I felt better in a face-to-face setting.

As my recovery strengthened, my Sponsor advised that I would grow even more when I began giving away what I learned. After agreeing to sponsor someone, I realized I had learned, through meetings and spending time with my Sponsor, to recognize growth and hope.

I remembered that this experience in the program strengthens Al-Anon as a whole while listening during a recent international service meeting.

During a discussion following the general session topic, “Strengthening Our Understanding at Every Level of Service,” at the 14th International Al-Anon General Services Meeting (IAGSM), one Delegate shared that in order to achieve a strong understanding at all service levels, her service structure discovered they needed active participation of Regional Trustees and the General Secretary at all Assemblies and meetings—like WSO has done around the world.

“Face-to-face is a warm way to strengthen our fellowship. We need to be near!” she exclaimed.

Another Delegate advised that the key words for her in exploring this topic were the words “at every level.”

She indicated it was easy for her to do service on a group, district, or Area level. However, she explained that the more she commits to service, which widens her understanding, the more communication is required of her while she works with others in Al-Anon service.

She expressed that although more communication is fearful for her, learning to communicate with others is a tool that has helped to lessen fear.

After a report back on the workshop topic “Communication: Our Key to Understanding,” one participant responded, “If we have done a good job in communicating when people decide to become involved in service, they should hear ‘we will help and support you.’”

I pondered that comment as I remembered the planning that occurs in the organization of the IAGSM.

Although the International Coordination Committee (ICC), based on input given by the General Service Offices and IAGSM Delegates, has the responsibility of planning the agenda, it is the Delegates’ presentations and discussions that bring life and clarity to the topics. It is the ICC’s job to give support and help through planning.

Against our serene backdrop in Helsinki, Finland I had the honor of witnessing the growth and hope of worldwide Al-Anon.

By Marsha W., Associate Director—International
The Forum, February 2009

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