June 2024
Highlights from the June 2024 Issue:
This Pride Edition focuses on the experience of LGBTQ members in A.A., highlighting themes of identity, acceptance, and the importance of safe spaces within the fellowship. The issue reflects on both the challenges and the growth that come from integrating recovery with personal identity.
“Being Gay in A.A.” by Catherine L. shares a personal journey of early sobriety and coming out, exploring the challenges of acceptance in both A.A. and society, and the importance of finding community within LGBTQ meetings.
“Pride in the Rooms” by David S. reflects on long-term recovery, emphasizing the role of both mainstream and LGBTQ meetings in healing shame, grief, and identity, and the importance of identification in recovery.
“Overcoming Shame and Developing Pride in A.A.” by DWW explores the deep impact of shame and the process of self-acceptance, highlighting the role of LGBTQ meetings in providing a safe space for healing and connection.
“Pride” by Dick G. shares a story of early recovery and finding belonging, emphasizing how inclusive spaces within A.A. support authenticity and service.
“Replacing Alcoholic Shame with Sober Pride” by Danl reflects on early experiences in LGBTQ meetings, showing how identification and shared experience can transform shame into acceptance and connection.
“The Gratitude List” style reflection appears in “Shedding” by Lilly W., focusing on personal growth, boundaries, and letting go of what no longer serves recovery.
“Initial Impressions of A.A.” equivalent insights appear in “Initial Impressions”-style reflections throughout the issue, including practical and emotional perspectives on early recovery and belonging.
A group history feature, “Live & Let Live” by Dick G. & Dianne R., traces the origins and evolution of one of Ottawa’s first LGBTQ A.A. meetings, highlighting both resistance and resilience over time.
Service remains a central theme throughout the issue, with opportunities highlighted for the Telephone Answering Service, 12-Step work, and Intergroup roles.
Upcoming events include regional gatherings, Pride-related fellowship opportunities, and conferences, encouraging continued connection and participation in the broader recovery community.
