[Businessmtg] Newcomers Discussion

[LindaLee H]

Hi Friends:

I apologize for being late to the discussion - as I said, have been on the road.  I've kept up with reading everyone's input but haven't been in position to join in.  I would like to offer some of my thoughts and I apologize in advance if they are somewhat disjointed.


Of course Newcomers are confused and afraid.  They are Newcomers.

The fact they "hope" they are doing things "right" and apologize in advance happens in f2f meetings also.  It's the way I was.


In regard to the discussions:


Like:   If it's the consensus that the Newcomer site can be simplified and improved, and we have

an experienced volunteer to work on it, what would be our reasons for refusing to have a look?

Keep it simple is one of our basics


Like:  Love the idea of Newcomer packets being offered and available to be mailed.

Reading everything online isn't the same as being able to hold something tangible in your hands, tuck in your pocket, refer to frequently.  Sometimes people aren't able to afford the books and these free pamphlets can be a Godsend.


Disagree:  I do not believe the List Administrator is intimidating or unwelcoming in any way. That's the title of the position.


Disagree:  The Welcome says that Al-Anon has one purpose:  to help families of alcoholics.  It does not say to do everything for them that they can do for themselves.  It does not say to not allow them to make mistakes, to fall down and get back up.  It does not say to anticipate and have an answer ready for every question or possibility that might arise.


Since I'm late to the meeting, I'll stop here.  I wanted to give some of my thoughts.

Hugs, Linda