Unlocking the Group Conscience

I have often heard it said that all you need to start a new AA group is a resentment and a coffeepot. Resentments had kept me drunk for many years, and in 1987 I was literally dying from alcohol and drug addiction, fueled by resentments. I sobered up at a group close to my home. The people there welcomed me and loved me and told me to keep coming back. By the grace of God, I did. These folks loved me through that first year. They hugged me and honestly shared their experiences, strength, and hope. The group had broken up about a year before I came in, so we had lots of newcomers as well as just a few old-timers, and through that first year we grew in size and I felt comfortable and at home. When my first birthday arrived they all celebrated with me. It was the best feeling I ever had. I felt loved and "a part of."