Speaking at a correctional facility
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Thread Starter
Join Date: Jan 2016
Location: New York, NY
Posts: 167
Speaking at a correctional facility
Hi everyone, Im speaking at a jail this weekend bringing in an AA meeting. I dont know what to expect and would appreciate any experience or words of advice.
They're people too. Just be yourself and things will take care of themselves.
Statistics show that a majority of prisoners have alcohol and/or drug abuse issues. Give them a chance to change by sharing your wisdom with them!
Statistics show that a majority of prisoners have alcohol and/or drug abuse issues. Give them a chance to change by sharing your wisdom with them!
Member
Join Date: May 2014
Location: Minnesota
Posts: 130
Having sat in lock up with few means of distraction or entertainment myself, I'd say, first off, keep it real. If you have a talent for Robin Williamsesque comedy, maybe toss a couple appropriate chuckles in to you message......but, mostly, stay on message.
I would try to remember that this is an institutional meeting with a very specific purpose, to carry the AA message to the alcoholic who still suffers, to give them hope that they can have a better life.
It is not a regular meeting and could be shut down if the inmates or members of staff feel visiting AAs behave or share inappropriately. I have seen it happen.
A guiding thought might be the Torono Declaration "When anyone, anywhere reaches out for help, I want the hand of AA always to be there, and for that I am responsible."
It is a great opportunity to show how we have lost interest in selfish things, and gained interest in our fellows.
It is not a regular meeting and could be shut down if the inmates or members of staff feel visiting AAs behave or share inappropriately. I have seen it happen.
A guiding thought might be the Torono Declaration "When anyone, anywhere reaches out for help, I want the hand of AA always to be there, and for that I am responsible."
It is a great opportunity to show how we have lost interest in selfish things, and gained interest in our fellows.
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