[Businessmtg] OT

[LindaLee H]

It's not possible to control what comes out of another person's mouth (or typing fingers).
In my f2f meetings we still have people who come in to "dump" - who talk only about their jobs or 
their neighbors, who never seem to speak or practice Al-Anon.  This sometimes includes long-timers as 
well as newcomers.
 
By practicing the 12 steps and traditions myself, hopefully I'm setting an example.
I believe we can't "restrict" how people share.
By continuing to use CAL and repeating the principles and focusing on program, some will get it - some will move on - 
and some will continue as they are.
 
The topic chair has an opportunity to use some of these for discussion in our meeting.
Reinforcing getting a sponsor and talking to a sponsor.
Encouraging individual contact between members for further or more detailed discussions, rather than meeting time.
Reminders in shares that we do not give advice.
Chairs using CAL that addresses these issues.
 
The majority of people who come to these rooms eventually "get" it by listening and learning.  I do not want to judge or criticize newcomers who are already afraid and confused.
Linda