September 2024
Writing for the BITS
by Allen L
I learned some surprising lessons from my service work as editor of the paper version of the BITS (2018/2019) and writing my monthly column about the Steps, Traditions, and Concepts.
First and foremost was that reading and thinking about each Step, Tradition, and Concept helped me grow my understanding of them. I began to see how I had been using the Steps and Traditions and how my behavior had changed. Since I really hadn’t studied the Concepts before, I began to see how I could use them in my daily life. Without really working at it, the Concepts started creeping into my daily practice and, almost unnoticed, I was growing and changing.
I also learned that writing for Al-Anon was exactly like sharing in a meeting. The difference was that I was putting the words on paper instead of talking. I learned that in writing, editing, and polishing my thoughts I got a clearer picture of what was going on with me. I could see the change in myself and begin to accept my progress in a different way than just living through it.
In Al-Anon we try not to tell other people what to do or how to practice their program. We do share what some particular practice has done for us personally and encourage others to try it for themselves to see if they get the same benefit.
I encourage you to write your story, or at least some part of it for the BITS. I believe it will help you see some area of your program where you truly have made progress - or maybe see where you still need to apply some effort. In the process of getting the words exactly right (your opinion not anyone else’s), I believe you will gain a clearer picture of your program and how you practice it.
photo by Clif H
The last thing, and I think the biggest thing, is that just like sharing in a meeting someone will hear a part of their own story in yours and realize they are not alone. That someone else with a similar problem has found a way to a more comfortable and happy life.
Try writing your story for the BITS. I think you will get the same growth and benefits that I have. I promise that if you share from your heart, someone will hear what they need to hear; and helping the families and friends of alcoholics is why we all do service.
AIS/LDC needs you!
by Mary R, LDC Co-coordinator
The Literature Distribution Center (LDC) volunteer crew is experiencing change. One of our wonderful volunteers is moving on, having served the LDC for 3 years. Always doing great work for us, as an office literature shipper. As a result, we need to refill our slate of volunteers by January 2025.
The job is done on Thursdays, with a full slate of volunteers. The need is for one day a month, with a flexible schedule. It usually only takes 2-3 hours or less and a couple trips to pick up mail and ship packages.
Please communicate with your members about the needs of our office so we can keep running a successful all-volunteer office. This helps us spend your donated dollars wisely.
Anyone that might be interested in volunteering in the LDC can reach Mary R, LDC co-coordinator, at LDC@seattle-al-anon.org. We will welcome you aboard and get your training started.
Our prayers are for someone to step up before January so we can seamlessly continue to deliver Conference Approved Literature (CAL) to our Seattle area membership.
Thank you.
photo by Clif H
Step Nine
Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.
A ZOOM REFRESHER: PREVENT, ACT, REPORT
Zoom bombing or Zoom raiding involves the unwelcome, inappropriate, disruptive misbehavior by a meeting participant. Unfortunately, Seattle, Spokane, Vancouver and Olympia have all seen an increase of such incidents recently.
Best practices for securing our meetings have changed over time. As we continue to navigate our new virtual meeting spaces, it is important to keep up with the security features available to protect our groups, members, and the integrity of the Al-Anon principles.
Zoom emphasizes the importance of meeting security through prevention, action, and reporting. Prevention includes having appropriate security settings to protect your meeting. But the needs of groups can vary by size and the tech skills of the participants. Waiting rooms do not work well for some groups, but most groups should enable the security feature so “Host Only” can start a screen share. This setting and others can be changed before or during the meeting by the Host or Co-host by clicking the large Shield icon on the meeting toolbar to access security features.
Best practices require that a member claims the Host position and designates at least one Co-host. In larger meetings there should be more Co-hosts. There are many in-meeting security options available, but ONLY for the Host and Co-Hosts.
The Host position can be claimed simply by entering the Host Key Code into the “Claim Host” button from the Participants section. The Host Key Code should be protected and only shared with the few people who will actually serve as Host or Co-host. The Host and Co-host should not also serve as the Chair for the meeting.
When a participant’s behavior requires action, the Host or Co-host can click on the large Shield icon from the meeting toolbar. They can choose “Lock Meeting” and then “Remove Participant.” This will remove the participant from the meeting and they will be unable to return.
However, if the misbehaving participant cannot be easily identified, as in a meeting with many participants, then the choice of action may be to “Suspend Participant Activities.” This will lock the meeting, stop screen shares, mute all participants, hide profile pictures, stop videos, disable in-meeting chat and Zoom apps.
During a meeting, the Host or Co-host can report inappropriate participant behavior by clicking the small green Shield icon in the upper left-hand corner of the screen. If there isn’t time during a meeting to report, share the incident with your Zoom Account Administrator who can make a report through the Zoom Web Portal.
For more information please watch: “Zoom Security Basics” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dgs9mjnycaE Jump to time marker 2:45 for security tools you can use during a meeting.
Walking the Walk: Speaking Step Twelve into Action
“Actions speak louder than words,” a phrase ingrained in me since childhood, has seamlessly transitioned into my Al‑Anon program, emphasizing the importance of moving beyond mere talk and embracing the opportunity to walk the walk. As I think about speaking in Al‑Anon, I realize it is more than just articulating words—speaking is about embodying the principles of the program, trusting in a Higher Power, and connecting with others on a deeper level.
Reflecting on my first real public speaking experience in high school, I recall my principal encouraging me to handwrite my graduation speech double-spaced in a composition book and coaching me on the importance of speaking slowly and purposefully. This lesson resurfaced when I presented as World Service Office Staff at the World Service Conference for the first time. Amid the excitement, I lost myself in the moment, speed-reading from my script into the microphone until a colleague’s gentle whisper to “slow down” brought me back to reality. It was a humbling moment—a reminder of the importance of staying grounded.
Once, as a District Representative, I was invited to speak at an anniversary meeting for a group I typically did not attend. The room was full, and I recognized many of the members in attendance. While sharing my story, a personal detail popped out—a “secret” I usually kept to myself. When I had shared this secret before in other circumstances, it often led to surprise, confusion, and misunderstanding. For that reason, and because it was an outside issue, I had never discussed it in Al‑Anon before. When I did, I was relieved to have many members approach me after the meeting and express appreciation for my honesty, as they too had similar experiences and found it relatable.
As I continue my journey of recovery through service, I am grateful for fellow members, including my Sponsor, and service tools such as the Members Interested in Speaking Guideline (G-1), the public outreach service pamphlet Attracting and Cooperating (S-40), and the 2022–2025 Al‑Anon/Alateen Service Manual (P-24/27), all of which provide invaluable guidance as I navigate the complexities of carrying the message and putting Step Twelve into action. By speaking our stories and experiences, we not only find healing for ourselves but also provide hope and help to those who may be struggling.
By Heather S., Associate Director—Community Relations
The Forum, August 2024
Reprinted with permission of The Forum, Al-Anon Family Group Headquarters, Inc., Virginia Beach, Virginia, USA.
Tradition Nine
Our groups, as such, ought never be organized; but we may create service boards or committees directly responsible to those they serve.
photo by Clif H
Need a Free Newcomer Packet?
Anyone local to Seattle who is a newcomer and wants an individual newcomer packet (or in Spanish, too!), please submit your request via the New To Al-Anon page, or send an email to outreach@seattle-al-anon.org with the name and mailing address.
Has Your Meeting Changed?
Gone back to meeting in person
Become hybrid or concurrent
Has a new physical location
Made other changes that members need to know about
Has an alternate Holiday Schedule
Has disbanded
Please submit all meeting changes to the WA Area Group Records Coordinator by using the form at https://wa-al-anon.org/group-records-request-a-change/
Changes and Updates are made Weekly.
(Seattle AIS is automatically cc'd in the change request)
If you have any questions or concerns regarding the Seattle AIS updated meeting schedule, please contact meetingdirectoryeditor@seattle-al-anon.org
2024 Washington Area Event Schedule
FALL ASSEMBLY: October 4-6
Requesting Phone Volunteers
Contact the Phones Coordinator
Phones@seattle-al-anon.org or call/text 206-625-0000
Concept of the Month
by Allen L
Concept Nine
Good personal leadership at all service levels is a necessity. In the field of world service the Board of Trustees assumes the primary leadership.
Concept Nine gives primary leadership to the Board of Trustees. It does not give “command.” To be clear when someone commands, they direct authoritatively. When they lead, they guide in a way that the group is glad to follow.
It’s worth remembering that the Steps, Traditions, and Concepts all fit together and support each other. The board assumes primary leadership and with that the “right of decision” described in Concept Three. Concept Six reminds me that the Board of Trustees must have that right of decision so that it can function effectively to provide the services we need from the WSO.
Watching the function of Al-Anon, first at the group level, and later at the district, area and WSO levels, I observed good leadership practiced. Leadership where the people put the idea of the 12th tradition of “principles above personalities” into real practice. I also learned the difference between self-serving leadership and servant leadership.
Yes, in some cases I saw those principles ignored by a few, fortunately the institution of Al-Anon is robust enough to weather those infrequent storms. I learned from those less than ideal situations. Just as I learned good practices from the best examples, I also learned what to avoid from the less well-executed examples.
Of course, my relationship with my boss, my coworkers, and my subordinates got smoother and less contentious as I gained experience in practicing these Concepts. The place where I got the biggest return was in my home life.
photo by Clif H
As I learned to focus more on creating the best outcome for the entire family and not on my being “right” or “in charge,” the disagreements became fewer and less intense. Since I was truly trying to practice the principles of good leadership as described in Al-Anon, it never felt like I was giving in to others.
As I became a better and more caring leader the people in my life became much more willing to follow.
Concept Nine
Good personal leadership at all service levels is a necessity. In the field of world service the Board of Trustees assumes the primary leadership.
AIS Council Meeting
The next Council meeting is Thursday, September 12th, 2024, 7:30-9:00 pm. Check the AIS website calendar (https://www.seattle-al-anon.org/events) for the zoom link.
AIS Board Meeting
Thursday, October 17th, 2024 at 7:00-8:30 pm. Check the AIS website calendar (https://www.seattle-al-anon.org/events) for the zoom link.
2024 Board Meeting Schedule
October 17 7:00 - 8:30 PM
LIVE YOUR LIFE
by Callie D
It was like a persistent message in Charlotte's Web, or “If you build it, they will come,” from Field of Dreams. Every time I entered the room, “Live Your Life” was right there in bold letters, entering my mind whether I consciously read it or not. This adventurous phrase was daring me to take action, in my own best interests.
It felt like it was coming directly from God. Although it was just a magazine turned on its face, it spoke to me several times a day. It is a simple yet profound statement: “Live your life.” A short phrase where every word could have its own particular emphasis. I could break it down and apply it uniquely to my current situation.
“Live” What does it mean to me to live? As I reflect on an average day, week or month … I realize I am mostly just surviving my circumstances. However, if I look back a year or more, I have made some changes over time to take better care of myself. But there is definitely room for improvement.
Residing in the same household with active alcoholism has had a heavy impact on how I live. As I ponder the possibility of change, I realize I want and need more freedom.
“Your” Too many times I have been sucked into the alcoholic’s stuff. Being conscientious and “overly” responsible has left me in Catch-22 dungeons, grappling with unbearable burdens. There are no easy answers when you know you can’t walk away or do nothing, in good conscience. Am I living my life or their life?
photo by Callie D
Perhaps if I take inventory of what is actually “mine.” Shore up my responsibilities. Take possession of my time, energy, intelligence, and love. These are finite resources and I want to make conscious choices of where I am investing.
“Life” Sometimes it feels like I need to earn the right to enjoy life. That I may not be worthy of spending money on myself or taking a vacation. I will never forget a young fellow traveler’s observation about the way I had to justify taking a Sunday drive. They basically said that I didn’t always need to have two reasons to do something.
The other day I made a spontaneous decision to head for a favorite trail in the waning light of early evening. It was well worth the round trip and the picture within this article will attest to that. No regrets!
photo by Callie D
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August 2024 AIS Council Meeting Minutes (Summary, not yet approved)
Seattle Al-Anon Information Service Council Minutes August 8, 2024 7:30-9:00 pm
Meeting opened at 7:30 pm by Dave M - Chair
In attendance: 19 attendees
Serenity Prayer
Introductions
Readings: Concept 8-Solveig W
Secretary Report: Kathy K - Approval of the May minutes
Chair Report: Dave M
July Board Meeting
Held July 18th
1 DR in attendance.
Same reports as July 11th Council Meeting.
The major discussion was on Outreach opportunities in addition to Sound Transit.
October Board Meeting
Items to be discussed:
2025 Budget
2025 Officer Discussion which will be presented to the Council at the November Council Meeting.
Outreach Opportunities (in addition to Sound Transit already committed to)
Donation Thank You’s
Looking for a volunteer to send out monthly thank you e mails to groups that donate. Contact Dave at chair@seattle-al-anon.org if you are interested.
Lois’s Birthday 2025
Paperwork completed
Working on insurance requirement. (Certificate of Liability)
Goal: Complete and meeting held with St. Andrews by August 31st.
Vice Chair Report: Arden C
Gave a full accounting of AWSC event.
Treasurer’s Report: Gary H - AIS remains in good financial shape.
Coordinator Reports:
Phones: Heather R
Contact: phones@seattle-al-anon.org or can just call or text the AIS phone number 206-625-0000 to volunteer.
VOLUNTEERS:
We have 17 trained volunteers.
VOLUNTEERING NEEDS: Please let your groups know that members can volunteer as little as once a month!
ACTIVITIES :
Work on updating Phone Manual
Research what happens if a text recipient replies HELP or STOP
LDC: Mary R -
LDC Report to Council 8-8-2024
Another slow month for literature sales, better for donations. It must be summer. We are well stocked in Literature for both our Open Office Saturday and our upcoming Ice Cream Social, thanks to Linda H.
We will be in need of a volunteer to step up for an Office Shipping position. Our wonderful volunteer Arden H has done a beautiful job for us for 3 years, and had decided to step down starting January 1. Please announce at your meetings. It would be great to get a new volunteer well before January so we they can be trained to take over January 1.
Communications: MJ
We have a new Web Editor – Tom K! Welcome Tom! He and former Web Editor Evelyn are getting together for training. (Tom notes he has reached out to Evelyn but they have not met yet.)
A new meeting has been added to our Meeting Directory (thanks Linda, Meeting Directory Editor). It’s happening right now, Thursdays at 7 p.m. It’s called “Hope for Today AFG.” It’s in the town of Snoqualmie.
Tech: Pierre J
It was a very quiet month. He has connected with the new web editor Tom. He has not had time to work on the Chat Bot and there were no support requests.
Outreach: Solveig W
The Conference I would recommend considering is the 2025 National Association for Addiction Professionals Annual Conference, which will be held at the Hyatt Regency Bellevue, Seattle earning Exhibition for $750, there are only 4 available so we would need to act fast.
Outreach Ads - Holiday 2024/25 (late November through end of January). We will continue our Sound Transit Bus and Train ads this Holiday Season for $5K.
Action Item: It was moved and seconded and passed that Outreach be authorized to spend $750 to purchase a booth at the National Addiction Professionals US Conference in 2025 which will be held in Bellevue WA.
Old Business:
None discussed
New Business:
None discussed
Seventh tradition
https://www.seattle-al-anon.org/donationsforms
Next Council Meeting
September 12, at 7:30 PM
Next Board Meeting
October 17, 2024, at 7:00 pm
Adjournment: Al-Anon Declaration
Meeting adjourned at: 9:04pm
Respectfully submitted by:
Kathy K, Secretary
Thank you for your donations and your support of AIS!
Our funding now comes primarily from:
Donations by Members, Groups, and Districts
Literature Sales
Please send all AIS mail, including checks for literature orders and donations, to:
Seattle AIS
505 Broadway E #400
Seattle, WA 98102-5023
And More ...
MEETING SCHEDULE: Registered Al-Anon groups in the Greater Seattle Area. Hybrid, Concurrent, and in-person meetings are listed.
Please visit our Member Resources section for the most up-to-date information on:
List of AIS Officers and Coordinators
Where to Send Donations
District Representatives and Business Meeting Information
AIS Financial Information
Calendar of Events
Meeting News
News from the Meeting Directory Editor
Meeting changes received since those reported in the August BITS.
• Tuesday, 7:00 AM Opening our Hearts, permanent online meeting (7/20)
• Sunday, 8:30 AM Sunday AM Fresh Start, updated meeting directions (7/22)
• Thursday, 7:00 PM Hope for Today AFG, new in person meeting (8/7)
Seattle Al-Anon Information Service
Meeting Directory Editor