Chairperson

My sponsor told me it’s time for me to chair a meeting having completed 90 days sober in AA. :face_with_raised_eyebrow:. The whole giving back thing. I get it. I’m just afraid I will fumble. Haven’t done anything like that… well, ever. Any feed back?

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You don't have to. "Giving back" is different things for different people. Maybe start with something a little less "intense" like making coffee. The point is having/keeping a commitment with accountability.

Maybe work your way to it, or just jump right in. Who cares if you "fumble"? It's not a big deal. You are there to facilitate helping people.

Don't even worry about it.

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It's ok to fumble it lol. Plus usually everything is all laid out and written down that you need to say.
I think I wound up chairing my first meeting with two months because someone who was supposed to didn't show up.

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You will NOT fumble! You will give someone hope!

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Yes. I think I will offer services elsewhere. Going to a business meeting for my home group. I can find out what’s needed. Or I may just just the women’s group. . I noticed some people get annoyed if the chairperson misses things. I’m overthinking it!!!

I’m overthinking it.

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There’s nothing to it. If you’ve been going to meetings for the last 90 days you know this. Just read the format, assign readings, and open and close the meeting.
You will do fine. Besides, your a volunteer. They can’t fire you​:grin::laughing:

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If people get annoyed it’s on them. “We are but trusted servants”. If someone wants it done differently then they should volunteer themselves. :wink:

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Lol

Just let the members know you are new and appreciate helping and support in chairing. You can even share you are nervous and most people will immediately identify with you. If you fumble you will make progress and you can always say I am using the 9th tradition that AA always be not organized. Lol

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Remember, part of the process is doing things that we usually wouldn’t do to be of service and carry the message.
For example when I was asked to speak :flushed:🫨:grimacing:
But I did it and was glad I did.

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It's eezy-peezy everything is scripted and if it is anything like my home group everyone will be patient and loving. You got this!! Time to grow!!

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I like the idea of bringing a snack. People do that and it’s nice. Thank you

Who really gives a fück what annoys people? Some people are never happy, no matter what. You'll go nuts worrying about please everyone. Don't sweat it.

Highly recommend it. First time is a little scary but after you do it you will realize it is not bad at all and you will be glad you did it

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My first time chairing a meeting was as a last minute volunteer when the chair person didn’t show. I’m highly anxious and knew I would have sweated the days leading up to chairing, and am so grateful I got to get my first time out of the way so quickly AND with bonus points of people being grateful I stepped up. You can’t preplan a moment like that, but if it falls into your lap, I’d highly recommend taking advantage of it! It’s a win-win!

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I remember my first time. It was a little intimidating, but as I started reading the preamble, I just said "Okay, God, you got this." I realized that I was speaking to easily the most compassionate, patient, and understanding room I could have picked. I don't even remember my share, but I do remember how supportive and encouraging everyone was afterward. I felt an acceptance that I'd never felt before. You got this. :pray:

You’re gonna do great things! Don’t let fear stop you from living and learning. Use your precious time wisely. Second chance at life

Thanks Paige. You are close. Philly girl. Nice to meet you. Go Birds :eagle:

Thank you.