AA Grapevine, Inc.
AA Grapevine, Inc.
Out of Answers [Season 5, Episode 21]
Out of Answers [Season 5, Episode 21]
Out of Answers [Season 5, Episode 21]
Monday 20th November 2023
Join Sam and Will as they share their journeys of adapting to new meeting formats and building sober communities in this episode of the AA Grapevine's Podcast.
32 minutes
Inspiring
Empowering
Informative
Hopeful
Supportive
About this podcast
Author:
AA Grapevine, Inc.
Overview:
Categories:
Recovery with AA
Creative Recovery Journeys
Empowering Recovery Journeys
Sexual Empowerment & Identity
Innovative Treatments & Recovery Paths
Links:
Visit site
Episodes:
187 (View all)
Do you want to link to this podcast?
Get the buttons here!Finding New Paths: Sam and Will's Sobriety Journeys
Episode Overview
- Sam's struggle with adapting to different meeting formats and the rediscovery of taking notes during meetings
- Will L.'s experiences of challenges and re-engagement with the AA community after moving
- Listener feedback from Madeline and Steve highlighting the impact of the podcast on grounding in recovery
- Insights from the hosts, Don and Sam, on AA literature and becoming conference-approved
- The theme of finding ways to connect, engage, and recalibrate in sobriety resonating throughout the episode
I used to just spin and not be aware that I'm spinning. I'm just caught up in the maelstrom. With that awareness comes the option of saying, whoa, Sam, wait a minute, take a break, pause, breathe, step away for a minute. This was going on for me last night. Last night, I don't know why, but I could not sleep. I don't have anything hanging over my head that's stressing me out, but my mind was just racing and racing. And so instead of fighting it, instead of diving into all the things that are showing up, I just would turn on the light and pick up a book and read. And I'd get sleepy and I'd put the book down and turn off light and roll over and sleep for maybe 30 minutes. And the brain wakes up and doing it again. And instead of fighting it, instead of diving into it, I just would read some more. I didn't get pissed off about it. That is unusual behavior. That is not the way I used to behave at things like that. When that shows up, and it doesn't show up so much as it used to in my waking world, me being out and about in the world, I'm so less likely to get spun up over things. If I do feel that coming, I am so much more likely to be aware of it and have an opportunity to interrupt it. And with that interruption comes the chance to do something different.
Ever wondered how a change in scenery can impact your sobriety journey? In this episode of the AA Grapevine's Podcast, titled 'Out of Answers', hosts Don and Sam dive into the challenges and triumphs of adapting to new meeting formats and building a sober community. Sam shares his experience of moving from North Carolina to California and how he struggled to connect with the new meeting styles.
Through conversations with his sponsor and peers, he discovered the power of taking notes during meetings to stay engaged and participate fully. Joining the discussion is Will L. from Seattle, who talks about the hurdles he faced when relocating and finding a supportive sober community. Will's story is filled with personal turning points that highlight the importance of staying connected with AA, no matter where you are.
The episode also features listener feedback, with Madeline calling in on her fourth anniversary to express her gratitude, and Steve inquiring about how AA literature gets conference-approved. Don and Sam provide insightful answers, adding depth to the conversation about AA's processes and the importance of literature in recovery. Throughout the episode, themes of connection, engagement, and recalibration in sobriety are woven together, offering listeners a rich tapestry of experiences and reflections from the AA community.
Whether you're navigating a new environment or seeking ways to stay grounded in your recovery, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration.