[Businessmtg] My ESH regarding Al-Anon service

[ANNE O'HARA]

Good Morning All,


Kristen has asked for some ESH from members who have served ASP (or Al-Anon?)


I can share a little on this topic.  I believe very strongly in rotation of leadership and to adhering to the principles and policies set forth by the ASP group and by Al-Anon.  With that in mind, my experience has been very positive. 


Experience:  Over the years, I have felt that my voice has been heard and that change has been a collaborative and structured effort.  With the rotation of service, it is important to me that  we keep to that approach and that  all change follow the proper channels and that it is clearly documented for all to refer to.  This approach  has kept me from moving too quickly.  I tend to be impulsive, working as a team with SC and Business Meeting members, is a sometimes slow process, however, it allows all voices to be heard and decisions to be made thoughtfully.  At the end of the day I may not agree or like where we have landed but I know that we have use service tools and careful deliberation to reach a decision.  I have been GR for two different Face to Face meetings and have served as treasurer.  At ASP, I have been webmaster, treasurer and now archivist.  I have learned and practiced that: our leaders are but trusted servants they do not govern.


Strength: I have never had an issue finding my voice, my issue has always been with the delivery of that voice.  I can be still somewhat agressive in my views and delivery. I am a work in progress, and if I am HALT (Hungry, Angry, Lonely or Tired) I will still come across that way.  I try to use THINK and Let it Begin with Me, to present my thoughts on a topic.  It has taken great strength for me to temper my responses and to feel comfortable enough to accept feedback from others that I may not agree with.  It takes great strength to not take things personally. 


Hope: my hope in service is that I continue to learn and grow and to always give back to this program through service.  My hope is that I never think I am well enough to walk away from program.  My hope is for harmony, peace and serenity.   I believe that as long as I practice and participate, I will be healthy enough to respond to issues and dissent in a positive way.  Just like I use hope in my personal and professional life, this wonderful journey continues.


I welcome questions and look forward to seeing more members step forward for service.


Hugs,


Anne