I had no desire to become a counselor, even though I was attending a vocational college to obtain a certificate in alcohol and drug counseling. The real reason I attended that particular class was to continue receiving my unemployment benefits. I figured the course might help me understand "those people" when I eventually entered the law enforcement field. After I completed the didactic courses, my clinical supervisor suggested I attend Al-Anon to better understand what it takes to recover from alcoholism.

I took a notebook to my first meeting and introduced myself as a visitor. My Higher Power knew I couldn't handle a large forum, so He placed me in a small group of loving women. Those women shared their experience, strength, and hope from the Al-Anon program.

Immediately I knew I was in the right place and the Al-Anon members had something I wanted. They remained so serene while speaking honestly about their fears, wants, and needs. I continued attending that meeting and went to other meetings as well.

The love and compassion I receive in the rooms of Al-Anon still empower me seven years later. I'm grateful for the recovery experience. I didn't pursue law enforcement, but I became a counselor!

I can't imagine my life without Al-Anon—where I learned communication skills and how to give and receive what my Higher Power has given me. The men and women in Al-Anon have loved me through the most trying times of my life. I'm still in contact with my clinical supervisor who knew before I did that my life was worth saving.

By Anonymous
The Forum, June 2006

© Al-Anon Family Group Headquarters, Inc. 2006. All Rights Reserved.