“Diet and calories” clubs come with lists of dos and don’ts. They are generic plans which supposedly work for every person and body. Overeaters Anonymous is different. OA sees me as a unique individual.
My needs are unique, and my food issues are unique. As a result, OA doesn’t provide a list of dos and don’ts. Rather OA has stories, stories about individuals with unique issues and food plans. I see myself in some of these stories but not others; however, I can usually relate on some level to all of them.
Since OA doesn’t treat everyone the same, OA meetings can’t address all of everyone’s needs or answer all of everyone’s questions. That’s why partnering with a sponsor is so important. A sponsor is someone who understands and gets to know me and can offer their experience of recovery, personal perspective, and support. A sponsor is someone who shares her stories with me and with whom I share my stories.
What a great program!
—Amy, Kansas USA
