Amanda Roche
AA Reaction Paper
I went to an AA meeting on November 20th, 9:00 am at the Summit Center.
Cristina and I walked into the building not really knowing what to expect. In order to
properly explain my reaction I feel that it’s important to think about all aspects of my
experience and thoughts about the meeting. I will first think back to my expectations for
the meeting, then my initial reactions throughout the meeting, and finally reflect on the
overall experience.
My thoughts and expectations for the meeting have only been shaped by media
influences and my prior experience. Since I had no experience with alcoholics really in
my life, all of my expectations were formed off of what I have seen on T.V. or in movies.
I pictured walking into a room filled with people and a table in the back filled with
donuts and coffee. I thought I could just sit in the back unnoticed by everyone else and
just listen in as an observer. For me, I thought the meeting would go like any other
inspirational meeting. I expected there to be a definite leader who would introduce other
speakers to help reach out to the alcoholics in the audience.
However, the actual meeting differed tremendously from my expectations and
invoked powerful emotions within me. I quickly learned how ignorant to the process I
really was. First of all, it was a group of 9 people including Cristina and I. It was a small
gathering and everyone seemed to know each other. I remember thinking how great it
was that each person knew each other, and I think that really helps build support and trust
within the group. I almost felt that I was intruding on their personal meeting, but it was
open and everyone was willing to share this experience with us. The really powerful
aspects of the meeting were when everyone told their stories. Each person was so willing
to share the struggles they have endured and are still enduring. Although I won’t go into
anyone’s personal stories, there was a man there who talked about his wife. It surprised
me later to figure out that his wife was in the meeting as well and felt comfortable
enough to hear her husband talk about their life and to talk about her own struggles. It
was amazing to hear how far each person has come in his or her own difficulties and how
important attending these meetings truly are.
Reflecting back on my experience, I feel truly blessed that I had the chance to
personally experience the work of an amazing group. There was no big inspirational
speaker or formalities within the group. Each member brought their own stories and
support to the group and that was enough to help support others. Although at first I was
uncomfortable and a little scared, by the end I felt accepted and inspired by their
testimonies. This has helped me to get a little closer to understanding what a life of an
alcoholic is like. Reading about AA meetings is very different from attending one. I truly
think every person learning about alcohol should attend one because it does change your
perspective tremendously and impacts your life personally as well.