My first AA Meeting

Went to my first AA (Alcoholics Anonymous) meeting today, rang the national helpline yesterday ( 0845 769 7555 ) spoke to a very normal and down to earth woman (everyone manning the helpline is a reformed alcoholic) so they understand, she took my first name, age and location then said she would get someone from the local AA group to ring me. Half an hour later a man rang, giving only his first name, we chatted for about 10 minutes, I could relate to everything he said and had been through, he asked if I'd like to attend a meeting and after I agreed he gave me the time and location and arranged to meet me nearby 10 minutes before the meeting started and with that I'd made the first step.

Well needless to say I was worried and nervous, not sure to expect, I met my new friend at the agreed place and we walked into the meeting room, everyone was welcoming, friendly and chatty, after being offered a coffee and mince pie we all sat down, roughly 30 people were there ranging in age from early 20's to 60's or 70's.

There were a few announcements, I was welcomed and then people took it in turns to recount their experiences, most recalled their first meeting, and most had had the same fears and misgivings as me, and of the 10 or so people all said hello to me.

After an hour it was over, these were normal everyday people, friendly and helpfull, some had not drank for 20 or 30 years, some may have had a drink this morning and although I felt awkward and embaressed when I arrived, when I left I felt less so.

several people came and talked to me after the meeting, several of the male members gave me their telephone numbers and invited me to ring whenever I was struggling or needed a drink

Although most of what was said went over my head and a lot of the steps to recovey were not mentioned the one thing that I did take away was that they dont try and stop drinking for ever just for that day and if you manage for that day then try the next day.

I feel positive and am looking forward to my next meeting.