When it comes to recovery and staying sober, the importance of actually going to meetings simply cannot be overstated. There really is something to be said for listening to others share their experience, strength, and hope. One of the key things to learn however, is to relate and not compare. Sitting in a meeting and thinking to yourself that you are lucky you are not "that guy" is one of the worst things you can do. Instead, look for commonalities between yourself and others. This way, you will be open to learn from what others have gone through.
Many meetings...
There is an old guy that goes to meetings at the West Club, which I frequent, and he has a saying, "Many meetings, many chances, few meetings, few chances, no meetings, no chances." Let me tell you, this could not be more true. When I stopped going to meetings, that is when I began to entertain the idea that I could drink again. It did not take long before I was, and things went downhill fast after that. In time, I gave away everything good I had in my life, again. You do not have to be like me, if you have a problem with drugs and alcohol, give yourself a break, and go to some meetings.
Community...
Where are you going to find a sponsor to work through the steps? Meetings! Where are you going to meet new friends that have something in common with you? Meetings! Where are you going to find sober events to attend and have a good time? Meetings! Are you starting to see a pattern here yet? Meeting makers make it!
