Lena R.'s Fight for Secular Recovery in AA
I've been in the program for a long time and I spent literally Decades, not really as a believer, but just trying to fit in with what everybody was saying, you know, and I got to where I couldn't do it anymore, especially when my- oh my- atheist I just really came to accept I was an atheist and I felt very comfortable with it, and I was very comfortable with a secular interpretation of the program and my recovery.
Picture this: you're part of a support group that doesn't quite fit your beliefs, yet you know it's vital for your recovery. That's the situation Lena R. found herself in with AA. In this episode of Beyond Belief Sobriety, Lena from the We Agnostics Group in North Bay, Ontario, opens up about her journey to get her group recognized as 'secular' on the area's meeting directory.
It wasn't just about getting a label; it was about creating a space where everyone, regardless of their beliefs, could feel welcome and supported. Lena dives into the hurdles she faced, from finding a suitable location for her secular meetings to dealing with the resistance from more traditional AA members. She also touches on some bigger issues within AA, like questioning the original texts and confronting the dominance of white male privilege in the service structure.
It's not just a story of struggle but one of determination and change. Her efforts paid off when her district unanimously approved the request to add the 'secular' category. This victory is more than just a checkbox on a directory; it's a step towards making AA more inclusive and accessible for everyone. Lena's experience highlights the ongoing battle for inclusivity within AA and the importance of special interest groups in pushing these boundaries.
Tune in to hear Lena's inspiring tale of perseverance and learn how one person's dedication can pave the way for a more inclusive recovery community.