There are no experts in Al-Anon — 343

I heard someone in a meeting say, “the great thing is that there are no experts in Al-Anon.” What does this mean and why is it a great thing? Aren’t we all experts on our own stories?

  • One expression of this idea is found in Tradition 8: Al-Anon Twelfth Step work should remain forever non-professional, but our service centers may employ special workers.
  • What if we did recognize “experts”?
  • Would we elevate their opinions and solutions?
  • Why would this be harmful?
  • In recovery we “share experiences, strength, and hope”. 
  • Why is this so powerful?
  • What have you learned from someone else’s sharing?
  • Would you have rejected it if it came from an “expert” as a prescription instead of from someone sharing just their own experience?
  • The only thing I’m an “expert” on is my own experience.  
  • I can share what happened, what I did, and how well (or not) it worked for me.
  • And you can take what you like, and leave the rest.
  • There is no “quiz”, no “evaluation”, no list of things you need to learn to recover.
  • How beautiful is that?

Readings and Links

We read from How Al-Anon Works, chapter 16, Twelve Traditions; and Hope for Today, December 18

Upcoming topics

Our topic for next week is “If I'm not the problem, there is no solution.” How does recognizing this point you towards solutions? Please call us at 734-707-8795 or email feedback@therecovery.show with your questions or experience, strength and hope. Or just leave a comment right here.

Music from the Show

Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young: Teach Your Children
Bonnie Raitt: Storm Warning
Billy Bragg: No One Knows Nothing Anymore

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.