|
|
|
 (212) 870-3400
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
|
|
Do
We Keep The Doors Open When No One Shows Up?
Here I stand. The meeting was supposed to start twenty-five minutes
ago.
I am tempted to leave. I mean really, what is to be gained by me sitting around waiting for folks who are not coming anyway. What a waste of coffee I have a deep conviction about this issue. Some would say to stay 15 to 30 minutes and if no one comes go ahead and lock up. I believe we should stay put! After all, we had planned to be there for the full meeting anyway. We are in service and committed 110%. This would be a good time to work on a Step, to meditate and spend time alone with God. A time away from the kids and the noise of the world. This may be what God wants for you at that moment. Most of us have seen newcomers as well as old-timers come into the last 15 minutes of the meeting. Are we there for them? I would hope so. I believe with only a rare exception that if a meeting is in the schedule with the times clearly listed; that these times should be honored. Anything else would be a lie. If we are to be honest, if we are to set a standard of integrity for the newcomers then it is imperative that we do what we say we will do. That we leave the doors open as the schedule is listed. Stores don't close 30 minutes after they open if no customers come in. The county alcohol and drug treatment offices don't close their doors early if no one comes when they open. Integrity demands we stick to the schedule and keep the rooms open until which time the meeting is scheduled to close. I cannot express enough how important this is. I would never want my boredom to be the very thing that keeps someone from getting the help and support they need. Help stamp out the lie that “This is a selfish program” In addition, stick to the truth that “This is a selfless program.” Besides, you will get to stay clean/sober for another hour and a half. Blessings and Progress to All Montyman P. S. Drink the coffee.
I will make myself available when ever another person reaches out for help. I will do what I can without trying to fix them. I will not worry about my abilities but will instead be consistent with my availability. I am a trusted servant.
© Recovery Times. All rights reserved. Recovery Times has but one purpose and goal, and that is to carry the message of 12-Step Recovery -- as written and practiced in its founding organization's (AA's) unaltered 12 Steps, 12 Traditions, and 12 Concepts for World Service, but not limited to only AA-sanctioned material (such as The Holy Bible, The Koran, The Upanishads, etc.). Recovery Times is not affiliated nor approved with or by any 12 Step organizations. Recovery Times publishes only each author's opinions or positions on all matters, and doesn't necessarily agree or disagree with anyone on anything. Our Principles and Protocols are expressed beautifully in the Prayer of St. Francis (p.99, 12-Steps and 12-Traditions). Site best viewed at 1024 x 768 with Internet Explorer
© STS Recovery Publications 2004 / Monty Dale Meyer All Rights Reserved.
|
6.0 or Netscape 
7.1 or Higher or