Ugh, I just got off of a VERY tough call with my sponsor and friend where I shared I’d been considering sticking with Lifering and my other alternative recovery programs and stopping AA. It was so hard. I got the angry, “This is your addict talking, what you’re saying is BS, you just want to drink, you think you’re a special snowflake..” sort of response I expected.
Truly though, I’ve just come to find myself more through other programs, meditation, recovery podcasts, groups and classes I’m a part of than in AA.
Why does it have to be so demeaning and hurtful? A large part of why AA doesn’t resonate with me is because I really want to focus on building myself up, loving myself, etc. than tearing myself down. I’ve done enough of that up to this point. I enjoy the fellowship and love many people in the groups, but my solution needs to be about learning to care for myself, listen to and trust my intuition and build my toolbox.
Great post!
I've found some of the same to be true of AA, but also place a high value on the social aspect of fellowship groups. Have you considered giving NA a try? This certainly isn't meant as a universal truth, but I've found NA to be more supportive while AA can sometimes feel punitive. Just a thought. Also, for the sake of clarity, NA doesn't distinguish between substances, so even if drugs aren't part of your story, you've still "earned your seat", to appropriate some recovery verbiage.
-Ulysses
No, I haven’t ever considered it. I will now though! Very interesting distinction.
I've learned that there are different types of AA groups and people out there. Sometimes you have to go to different meetings to find the one that fits you.
I'm all about building yourself up, loving yourself, and creating a toolbox full of tools that work for you.
If I would have had a hard azz sponsor when I got sober, I probably wouldn't have stuck around long enough to stay sober.
It takes all kinds, there isn't a one way fits all here!
I understand, maybe you had a different experience that is unusual 
Sure!
Awww, thanks
Good to hear
Awww, thanks 
Recovery is personal. What works for me might not work for you. We take the puzzle pieces and fit them together for ourselves. I hate the judgement I received in anonymous programs. We can’t control anyone outside our “hula hoop”. Go. Find your way, your people your programs. Use what works for you!
I love SMART recovery. Especially unconditional self, other and life acceptance
Awww, nice
All programs are selfish.to use if it works .keep doing it.has there been any other program here longer then aa.
I understand
AA is not for everyone. It works for me but as long as you are happy and are doing the next right thing you will be successful. I wish you all the happiness that you surely deserve.
There are as many paths to recovery as there are people. You have to find your own, may you find peace and serenity with whichever path you choose!
Thanks for the advice
Nice:slightly_smiling_face: