The material presented
here is not Al-Anon Conference Approved Literature. It is a method
to exchange
information, ideas, feelings, problems and solutions on a personal
level.
I am looking for some suggestions from anyone who has experienced being a sponsor. I have been in Al anon for 3 years and I've worked the steps and traditions with a sponsor.
I was recently asked by a newcomer if I could sponsor them a month ago but I told her I felt I wasn't ready to take on that just yet, even though my HP has been pushing me to say yes. Due to my character defect of perfectionism I felt I wouldn't do it right, so why do it at all? Lol But upon a lot of prayer and meditation I realized it was time to pass on all I have learned and put that 12th step to practice.
I've read in the literature and from personal experience that we get more out of service than we give. I am finally ready to take this step in my recovery and grow along side a sponsee.
Great Sandy I am happy for you I have found that being a sponsor has enriched my recovery tremendously. This is a fellowship of equals and walking this program with another in the sponsorship role turned out to be a gift that we give to ourselves . By so doing i learned how to be supportive, compassionate, and understanding without giving advise or care-taking What a gift!!
Let us know how it goes.
Hey Sandy - if you've been asked and you are considering, it sounds as if you are ready! I view a sponsor as a guide, not a manager, not a leader, not anything other than a guide. The sponsee chooses to follow the guidance or not. The sponsee chooses the rate of growth/program and the sponsee is responsible for reaching out.
I learned early on in 12 Step recovery that we are to carry the message and not the person. The 3 C's help me when I am working with new members as well.
(((Hugs))) - you will be/do just fine!!
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Practice the PAUSE...Pause before judging. Pause before assuming. Pause before accusing. Pause whenever you are about to react harshly and you will avoid doing and saying things you will later regret. ~~~~ Lori Deschene
