Self Help Reflection Paper: Alcoholics Anonymous Alcoholics Anonymous was founded in the city of Akron, Ohio by two exceptionally different men. Bill Wilson was a New York stockbroker while Dr. Bob Smith was a physician (Wiechelt, 2015, p.1011). While the pair led two widely different professions, they shared commonality in the fact that they both struggled with an alcohol addiction. Through several meetings, the two quickly realized that there was a great need for a support system for effective recovery. Each of them brought something unique to the table, creating a perfect mixture of ideas to form a well rounded framework for a recovery group. AA pioneered the 12 step program model and remains the most widely attended. AA’s self identified …show more content…
Living Sober is a meeting affiliated with AA. The meeting was a combinations of going through the steps, reading from the Big Book, and open discussion. In the meeting I attended there was about 25 to 30 attendees. The room was filled with happy faces that seemed comfortable and truly at home. The groups members were all highly involved in every aspect of the meeting. Whether it was reciting the 12 steps and traditions, reading from the Big Book, or engaging in honest discussion, almost everyone in the room participated. As a first time “participant,” I felt exceptionally welcomed to the group. Both of the ladies that sat on either side of me initiated an engaging and welcoming conversation with me. They took the time to explain the proceedings and reciting that I, as a first time guest, would not know. Also, throughout the meeting I had several questions that they kindly answered with patience. The group members were all incredibly supportive of each other. Each member seemed to genuinely listen to what their fellow member said when speaking, expressing understanding. The whole meting felt familial. It was clear that the purpose of the group is to provide a support system to individuals struggling with addiction. It also gave the individuals the platform to talk through their struggles and past stories without the feeling of