“If someone chooses to use his/her first and last name or hand out an address or phone number that is that person’s choice.” BRB p. 607
“For some ACA members, anonymity is merely stating their first name at ACA meetings to protect their identity…
Anonymity also means that we do not talk about someone else’s story or sharing that occurs in our ACA meetings or events…
ACA anonymity means that we know who we are. We do not need recognition or accolades for the service we give to ACA…
With the promise of ACA anonymity, we begin to feel more comfortable with telling our story in meetings.” BRB p.552-3
Personal Anonymity, Online
Unlike in face-to-face meetings, personal anonymity online may be more challenging to achieve. Whether on Zoom or through another platform, just entering a meeting confronts us with naming ourselves. The general practice is to offer a first name and last initial. Some people add the city or country from which they are calling. Some include their preferred pronouns.
We respect one another’s anonymity to foster a safe space for all of us to reveal our inner selves. With anonymity we challenge the family dynamic – don’t talk, don’t trust, don’t feel.
Email Addresses
In the world of online meetings, direct communications from the meeting and between members generally takes place by way of email or by telephone.
We suggest that you create a new email address dedicated solely to your personal 12 Step recovery. Here’s why:
- you can get meeting announcements,
- receive the daily reading from Strengthening My Recovery,
- correspond with other members,
- do service work, and so much more
And while you may not have a great need now, it could be beneficial in the future. Why not plan now? Besides email addresses are free.
Offering a Phone Number
Members customarily offer their phone number for listing on the meeting contact list, primarily if they are interested in sponsorship, becoming a fellow traveler, or just being available to talk or text. The contact list is available on our website, accessed only with a password.
Phone communications are more intimate and immediate than emailing. Take some time to determine comfortable boundaries, regarding the availability of your phone number. Know too, that you can change later the limits you set today.