Kim L.'s Journey: Crafting a Secular Al-Anon Meeting in Boise
Our whole thing was okay. You can believe anything you want, it really doesn't matter. So we've pretty much just taken the mention of god, especially god big g, out of our format and we don't open and close with the serenity prayer.
Picture this: you're in need of support, but the religious undertones of traditional meetings just don't sit right with you. That's the dilemma Kim L. faced, which led her to create a secular Al-Anon meeting in Boise, Idaho. In this episode of 'Beyond Belief Sobriety', Kim opens up about her motivation and the hurdles she encountered along the way. She knew many people who avoided Al-Anon due to its religious associations, so she decided to make a change.
By removing references to God and skipping the serenity prayer, Kim aimed to create a welcoming space for everyone, regardless of their beliefs. But it hasn't been a smooth ride. Kim's group has faced pushback from both the Al-Anon World Service Office and local Al-Anon members. Despite these challenges, they remain committed to fostering an inclusive environment. In the podcast, Kim also discusses how they've adapted some of the AA readings and steps to fit their secular format.
Her story is a testament to the importance of inclusivity and finding a recovery path that works for you. If you're curious about how Kim and her group are making a difference, this episode is a must-listen. It's not just informative; it's a heartfelt look at breaking down barriers and creating new paths in addiction recovery. Tune in to hear how one person's determination can lead to a more inclusive and supportive community.