Feeling as a fearful misfit in my childhood home, I sadly thought: “I MUST be adopted!” Now being in this diverse global community, I smile to myself and know “I AM adopted!” (by all of you, thanks!)
Billie R. - Virginia, USA
What a gift to have found a community every morning where I am welcomed and listened to, and where I learn and grow from listening to others.
Thomas
After years in recovery ACA has been the missing piece. SMR group has become a safe place for me.
Eileen G.
At my first share, when the host said “we’re listening” I knew I had a new family.
Wendy D.
As a Newcomer Greeter, I’m right where I need to be—available and open-hearted, ready to give a virtual hug.
Austine R.
The Newcomer is the most important person in the room. I’ve been there and remember what that’s like. I love to greet the Newcomers—it gives me joy.
Kare B.
I found ACA after years of working other programs. ACA is the culmination of all the work I have done, and a clear path for the healing I still need to do. SMR helped me make peace with myself. With this new connection to fellow travellers, I am now finding hope.
Michelle B.
If you're new to ACA, it can seem overwhelming. What should I do first? Do I need a sponsor? Should I do the 12-steps now or wait?
The most important advice we can offer you is to stay after our meeting for fellowship. We open the floor to newcomers to ask their questions of fellow travellers. The discussions are usually quite lively with lots of different perspectives on how to proceed in this wonderful recovery adventure.
ACA is not like other 12-step programs. Here, we invite you to slow down into your own pace. Keep coming to meetings, begin to share, start to talk to others, allow your natural rhythm to develop and to guide you. We're here to support you in any way we can.
Here are a few pages that might help you. The Laundry List, Tony A's 12 steps, ACA Beginner's Handbook, A New Hope, and The Feelings Wheel.