The Milwaukee Area Intergroup’s International Day Experiencing Abstinence (IDEA) event featured a speaker, a writing activity, and a lively discussion based on the Lifeline article *Outside and In*, exploring the contrast between trying to be abstinent and being willing to embrace abstinence.
“Elaine G. reflects on the transformative power of humility and Step Seven, capturing her journey through abstinence and surrender in a heartfelt poem during an International Day Experiencing Abstinence celebration.”
“In a moment of surrender, without truly believing in a Higher Power, I experienced a profound intervention that kept me abstinent and began to crumble the walls I had built around me.”
In Knock, Knock, Valerie G. reflects on her journey in Overeaters Anonymous, where a pivotal moment of openness to the concept of a Higher Power sparked a reexamination of her beliefs and a shift in her spiritual journey.
n Overeaters Anonymous, I found a community that taught me to believe in a power greater than myself—not through God, but through the fellowship and support of others who understand the journey.
Anonymous was so afraid of financial insecurity that stealing was normal. But the Big Book promises came true for him before getting halfway through his Step Nine amends.
When Anonymous asked God to help curb her impulse purchases, a homeless woman named Skye showed up and provided an opportunity to shop charitably and make a living amend
We can better appreciate Tradition Nine by imagining if OA was organized by VIPs and from the top down.
A sponsee overflows with gratitude to her sponsor. Read this wonderful poem by Catherine W. from Minnesota USA. “Finally,” she says, ”I am not alone with my fear and grief.”
OA member Glen F. reflects on the imperfect nature of being a sponsor. “Someday I’m going to let you down,” he reflects to his sponsee. Read on and take heart from his heart’s guidance, both spoken and unspoken.