[Businessmtg] Membership Involvement

[Marilyn Booms]

Hi everyone,

I have also perceived that ideas brought into the BM aren't 'heard',
because more seasoned members shut them down.  Reasons such as 'that didn't
work in another group' or 'we decided against that 20 years ago' wouldn't
seem to apply to forming a current group conscience in this group at in the
presentations, yet I've witnessed quotes similar to those shut down a
discussion more than once.

Fear of rejection or criticism are certainly issues I need to work on in my
own recovery.  Are they a barrier to partipation for more than me?
Probably.  I'd be curious to know if any records exist on members who have
only attended one or 2 business meetings and are still currently part of
the recovery group? That may tell us if someone tried a BM and felt
uncomfortable.

On the other hand, as a newcomer to the SC, I recently made a suggestion
that was well received and did feel heard.

Hugs,
Marilyn



On Mon, Oct 14, 2024, 7:56 AM Betsy C <ladybetsy.ec at gmail.com> wrote:

> I am delighted that this item is on our agenda and I'm hoping for a lively
> discussion.
>
> I depend on ASP to help me keep my life in balance.  Since I have health
> problems that prevent me from attending F2F meetings, this group is my
> Al-Anon lifeline.
>
> I've experimented with service but haven't found a place where I feel
> comfortable given my unpredictable health and, yes, I do have my own
> personality issues, too.  I know this sounds harsh, but I've never felt
> especially welcomed beyond the recovery meeting.
>
> I don't want to get into blame, but I would like to talk about some of the
> issues.  The way I see it is that this group has been around a long time
> and it's not the same as a typical Al-Anon F2F meeting.  We have dedicated,
> faithful members of the Steering Committee who have maintained this group
> over decades.  They've seen the technology change as well as our group
> itself.  They know what works and what doesn't.  That's wonderful and I'm
> so grateful, especially to Steve for doing so much for our group.
>
> My problem is that I have also felt that my thoughts and input haven't
> always been welcome.  I wouldn't even bring this up but I look at the lack
> of volunteers to serve on the Steering Committee and I wonder if others
> haven't felt the same.
>
> I'm hoping that we can brainstorm ways to keep what's good about our group
> and still be open to input from potential new members of the Steering
> Committee.  The emails to the recovery group about Steering Committee
> positions is an excellent start but I believe we need more.
>
> Please, please, say what you think.
>
>
>
> --
> *Betsy C*
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