"We are grateful that we were made so welcome at meetings that we felt comfortable"
Basic Text p. 83
Remember how scared we were when we walked into our first NA meeting? Even if we walked in with a friend, most of us recall how difficult it was to attend that first meeting. What was it that kept us coming back? Most of us have grateful memories of the welcome we were given and how comfortable that made us feel. When we raised our hand as a newcomer, we opened the door for other members to approach us and welcome us.
Sometimes the difference between those addicts who walk back out the door of their first meeting, never to return to NA, and the addicts who stay to seek recovery is the simple hug of an NA member. When we have been clean awhile, it's easy to step back from the procession of newcomers
after all, we've seen so many people come and go. But members with some clean time can make the difference between the addict who doesn't return and the addict who keeps coming back. By offering our phone numbers, a hug, or just a warm welcome, we extend the hand of Narcotics Anonymous to the addict who still suffers.
Just for Today: I remember the welcome I was given when I first came to NA. Today, 1 will express my gratitude by offering a hug to a newcomer.
I clearly remember the first person who hugged me at an NA meeting. It was a big heavy set guy who sorta buried me in his arms. It was very warm and welcoming. Not too long ago I shared with him that his was my first NA hug and how much it meant to me. It was a bonding moment. Perhaps I can do the same for a newcomer some day.
Mornin Avid! yes I agree very important service committment at meetings to be greeter,takes the edge off those coming thru the door.In fact at our last speaker jam one of the speakers from out of town shared had she had not felt welcomed entering our facility as no one "hugged or welcomed her"That was a faltering spot in our committment to ;carry the message' She actually shared it from the podium,You can bet our next business meeting included "advanced greeting committees!!!For some it may be the first hug they have received ever!!!!
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Our purpose is to remain clean,just for today,and to carry the message of recovery.
Recently I went to a meeting in another town and not only was not greeted, but wasn't even responded to (besides "hey" ) when I reached out myself! Very sad experience. Hugging, though...for me, I want to be asked (may I give you a hug?)...sometimes I have a real aversion to it (but at least I don't smack people anymore who just feel free to touch me LOL).
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From dying and surviving to living and thriving. LeeU
