AA for Beginners! What to Expect During An Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting?

This video should give you a brief outline of what you can expect when you attend your first AA meeting. When attending your first Alcoholics Anonymous make sure to keep an open mind and give it some time to sink in. I know for myself I felt very uncomfortable at my first AA meeting but everyone was very welcoming . Check out a meeting and know you love it !!
Terry G
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[@kek_tus]

Went to my first meeting ever today. Cried but left the happiest I've ever been. I even talked. I'm proud of myself.

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

I'm so happy for you ;) Congratulations !!

[@emmamunro7208]

❤❤❤❤

[@user-xt1nh1oh2c]

I remember my first aa meeting on December, 12, 1993. It was scary. Since my journey of being alcohol free, I have learned a lot and still learning. On December 12, 2023, I will be alcohol free 30 years. It works if you work it.

[@moomoo4228]

Crying reading this. Thank you.

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

@moomoo4228 Are you alright?

[@lusiamatavesi1177]

Very well done congratulations 😊

[@andrewb9974]

Thank you. About to head to my first meeting tonight. I'm not nervous at all. It's just time to take care of this issue. Be honest about it, and move on to a better life.

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

Just take it one day at a time . God speed :)

[@ShogunateDaimyo]

Best thing you'll ever do. What a blessing this program is

[@OthO67]

@jerrym.762 I was here to ask the same thing! Hope you’re still sober.

[@MobileDecay]

I'm not an alcoholic I just love inspiring stories of people bettering their life. Go get 'em!!! 😊

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

Thanks for the positive feedback 😀

[@aprilmay6803]

Don’t let people cross talk. Members are not therapists even tho many think they are. No member has a legal right to keep your confidentiality be careful what you share at meetings. Stay sober today. One day at a time

[@HarryHamsterChannel]

You can't stop them. Therein lies the lessen. I no longer speak at meetings. Something about avoiding argument like the plague. Something about alcohol only being a symptom.

[@LilChivo22]

For new comers. I will say this..... Don't be nervous. Most of us have been judged so much that we don't have it in us to judge anyone else. So if it's your first time. Or if your problem is out of control. We won't judge you. And most of all. Everyone is there to help

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

Great share, very postive:) Thanks, Terry G

[@Aquaman-uc1ze]

I just started going to AA one of the best decisions I ever made almost 2 months sober now

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

Right on !! One day at a time :)

[@jackjack8844]

Spotted a notice on a table in a KZbin video about AA. 'Who you see here, what you hear here, when you leave here, let it stay here.'

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

Did you want to know what it means?

[@jackjack8844]

@@AnAlcoholFreeLife I get the impression that attendees are given the privilege of being trusted with proceedings inside the room. Including who is present, what is said and contents of the room. However, individuals are free to interperate anything any way they wish.

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

@@jackjack8844 We trusted with what we hear at AA meetings. When I share something at a meeting I share in a general way . I leave the heavier stuff for my sponsor or therapy:)

[@HarryHamsterChannel]

In mixed company, I avoid the slogans. They ruin a person's credibility. Think before you speak.

[@ShannonFreng]

@@AnAlcoholFreeLife Most of what is said at those meetings is gossiped about, after. There are many negative truths concerning AA, that its supporters purposely avoid talking about. If this is doubted, then study up on some of the criticisms made of AA, then confront pro-AA people about them. You'll mostly find they'll immediately act dismissive toward you, if not antagonistic (so much for being exemplars of their much vaunted maxim of being open-minded). Read up on how AA is notorious for being unsafe for females, due to the prevalence of sexual predators, at meetings.

[@JaeDott96]

Tonight will be my first meeting I’ve ever attended . I am currently 5 days sober . It’s up from here .

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

Right on . It sure is all up here, and Im talking way up !!!

[@JaeDott96]

@@AnAlcoholFreeLife peace and love ✌️

[@Vashti0825]

I'm 25 years sober. I was very glad that I got help in a recovery house to get my bearings and a new start in life. I was taken aback by women telling me how to do things, "or else", but I continued attending until a few years ago WHEN I WOKE UP to the full blown narcissism and hypocrites in the room. All I can say is, yes, do the meetings, but do your step work /therapy with an outside 3rd party unassociated with the program. I hate to break it to you, but it is a CULT. Keep a safe distance. Take what you can and leave the rest. People gossip, judge and the next thing you know, the people in the next town over know all your shit.

[@mcnielentertainment]

I attended my first AA Meeting May 29, 2021. It was the 12 Steps & 12 Traditions meeting of AA. May 31, 2021 was my 2nd time at AA and we read the Living Sober book. I haven't shared my story yet as still shy to everyone at the meeting and I loved it. Going again this Saturday June 5 2021. I been reading the Daily Reflections daily and the AA itself is keeping me away from alcohol, with God's help as well. May 23 was the last day I drank and was sober by 12pm May 23.

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

So good to hear that you are giving yourself a chance at a new life. sIt may be hard at times but just plow through it . You are worth it !! Recovery has mad me a new person :)

[@clementinegraham9829]

I8

[@helenarose580]

I've been sober for three months

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

Keep moving forward:)

[@carlrichie2012]

I really need this, I'm such a mess right now. Whiskey is my downfall, I know it's bad, everytime I drink I feel sad but when I don't I feel worse, I wish I could break free 😢

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

I felt the same as you do right now.Go to an AA meeting and get some help. It will be ok 👍 👌

[@Livgorgeous]

You can and you will just go to your first meeting you can do this just believe in yourself.

[@lusiamatavesi1177]

Thank you Jerry this video was very helpful as I have just attended my first meeting tonight and I am looking forward to living a more healthy and happy sober lifestyle. One day at a time 😊

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

WOW,big decision!! Your best life starts now 🙌

[@iamwabisabi3711]

Just got home from my first meeting. Was eye opening. An overall great experience. Felt very welcome 😊

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

I glad it went well for you ;)

[@coffinsmokej7408]

Hey thanks I was on the fence about going to AA tonight and uh this actually helped so keep it up.

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

You really don't have to do anything. Just show up ,sit down and relax. It will all workout.

[@ericemelianenko6575]

Thank you for this. Doing my second meeting tomorrow. Little nervous

[@melissabytwork7905]

I'm in Michigan... And I'm GUNNA try... I hear this

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

Just take it real slow and keep an openmind

[@JoshSmithGamer]

i went to my first meeting and never felt more welcomed and happy to meet people. I made the bad mistake of buying alcohol earlier today but feel really bad for it after hearing about other people in my groups stories and from now on am going to stop it completely and be happy to get me week sober keyring as my group is also a cocaine anonymous group. thanks for the info

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

When I went to my first AA meeting .I right after the meeting, I drank, but when back to the meeting the next day.

[@JoshSmithGamer]

@@AnAlcoholFreeLife im going to another tomorrow and even if i do drink progressivly less i really want to just say bye to the alcohol for good

[@Albert-the-Astro]

I liked how you delivered the message, seemed extremely genuine. Thx

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

Thank you 😊

[@midsummersnight3848]

Thank you for this vid. It's helping more people than you know.

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

Thank you for the positive feedback!! We build awareness about the danger of addictions of all kinds.

[@mountiescorner]

My first one is tomorrow, thanks for this video. My friend who’s been sober for 8 years is introducing me and going with me. How long have you been sober for? Congrats

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

You can do it!

[@matthewjohnson4683]

How’s things been?

[@mountiescorner]

@@matthewjohnson4683 never went back out since that first meeting, brother. Just hit 20 months sober December 7th. Thanks for asking. I owe it all to AA, the steps, the big book & the fellowship. It taught me to deal with life as I’m sober but also just to overall be a better human. How are you doing

[@tedingram516]

Pretty fair and honest assessment of the AA program.

[@HellDescent]

He forgot to mention who sponsors are. They are the people who have completed the program, and are now helping alcoholics in recovery. You can just ask people at your meeting at any point about it, if you'd like to be introduced and need a helping hand guiding you through the program.

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

Great point:) Thanks

[@normanhowell3994]

A big book that's falling apart , is usually owned by someone who isn't.

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

That is so true :)

[@Ace-ls6yl]

I read the big book first 164 pages dozens of times. Still don't really understand it. Allen Carr crushes AA. AA is only about keeping the book alive, doesn't really care about helping the alcoholic.

[@riner9]

I loved my local AA it was basically a cool cozy clubhouse with dim lights and a kitchen, then they relocated down the street now it looks like a church inside and out. I stopped going.

[@AngelaDubs-nk9cg]

They just keep counting me out. Being so unsupportive and attacking others. They practice saying DO NOT SHOOT OUR WOUNDED. THEY DO.

[@melissabytwork7905]

Your here .. I'm taking my first step......... Today is new and scared but willing

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

Go for it !! A great life with be our for the taking

[@Success4u247]

I am 40 years plus and I stay very clear of hard recovery heads whose whole life is about meeting meetings meetings. People like them are just a dangerous as a drink. Also if someone asks you that they will be your sponsor, burn rubber……… Here is my take in 8 words. GIVE UP.CLEAN UP . MAKE UP .GROW UP . All the best to anyone who struggles with Alcoholism.

[@johncorbett6420]

Thanks, you seem like a very nice man you are appreciated 🙂

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

Thank you :)

[@slowstang88]

Im going to a local aa meeting tomorrow. I wouldnt know what to do without hearing this name. I need help

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

You'll be ok at meeting.You may get a little nervous at the start but will pass ,good luck .The start to your nee life :)

[@Pinman376]

Tomorrow, i will be sober for 2 weeks. Im just getting used to AA.

[@kathleenwharton2139]

Forgive as I Forgive. It is an Energy thing. Unforgiveness and resentments are low energy you bring to yourself. Forgiveness Frees you from that lower Energy. The Higher Power is simply High Energy. Forgiveness brings you Peace..the highest Energy there is. There is a scientific explanation. 😊❤

[@babystayflo]

just drank a six pack of modelo.going back for another round. who is with me!!!

[@jeremyhayes5124]

Thank you! You did a good job on this video!

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

I'm glad you found it helpful:)

[@JesseMohr-yv7cb]

Closed discussion meetings are actually compared to you being a kindergarner stuck in a 6th grade class but with another 6th grader leading it. Good luck getting to speak or share anything...good luck relating, understanding, and if you do get a change great!

[@WisconsinWebsitesLLC]

Watched many videos. Many mentioned praying. I'm out. I am glad it works for many people though.

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

It's for I get that. Try not to give up on getting sober .it's just my point of view , .

[@rodelmar1]

Thanks for sharing!

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

Thanks for watching!

[@user-lq5pz2tm7u]

Welcome to anyone new or anyone who's considering going to AA. I will have 14yrs of sobriety in 30 days. I love AA. You guys don't have anything to worry about. Go to a speakers mtg but go w/a friend, DON'T sit in the back, don't leave b4 the mtg ends, FORCE yourself to walk around and meet people, ask questions (trust me- we can spot a newcomer a mile away!! 😅) and we want to talk to you but JUST TO SAY HI, yep!! That's it!! Just hi! So go, give it a chance.

[@destiniandhaley]

Great video! I always enjoy listening to you speak!

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

Thank You ;)

[@HarryHamsterChannel]

This guy is overwhelming. Expect interminable cross-talk directed at you, people who insist on knowing who you are, and advice from people who really shouldn't be giving advice. Aside from that, it's OK. Just don't drink. Period. No matter what. You can do it.

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

Just an opinion ,lossen up ;)

[@HarryHamsterChannel]

@@AnAlcoholFreeLife lossen? People who spent most of their lives on bar stools, watching a TV with no sound, trying to tell others how to live? That's why 95% of them decide this isn't the way to wisdom. The program is sound. Alcoholism is a moral construct. It doesn't happen by accident.

[@Blue_ocean66]

Why does alcoholics anonymous force people to give there name in a ANONYMOUS program? 🤔

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

In some meetings, we have to adentify as a alcoholic, closed meetings.Open speaker meetings, you dont.Just go to the speaker meeting for now .

[@JesseMohr-yv7cb]

Speaker meetings usually involve food and beverage. Best part if you ask me

[@dawntaylor3972]

Im drinking a beer right now..iced cold and I just love it..I know that I need intervention and I pray for God to help me..today right now I want help. B😂tomorrow I will wak😂up and go on like today never happened

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

How are you making out ?

[@nemesisbreakz]

Some people seem like they do worship bill though

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

I think some do ?But I really have not noticed people speaking of Bill in a worshipping way

[@BlackFrieza1987]

Going to my first meeting now kinda nervous.

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

You will be ok !

[@lizzalkula376]

What are your thoughts about psychology students going to meetings as an assignment? It's one i'll have soon - attend no less than 4 meetings and to write an essay (im not sure yet what the expectation is for the essay). I'm ethically torn honestly

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

You can go to all the open speakers with no problem. The close discussion meeting may be a problem for you because of anonymity and what people in those groups are sharing . But you can always ask the chairperson.AA can be pretty touchy when it comes there to privacy . Are you in Ottawa?

[@lizzalkula376]

@@AnAlcoholFreeLife thank you for your response. Knowing that the entire thing is supposed to be private and anonymous gives me pause for concern. Unfortunately, no, not anywhere near Ottawa. All the way down in Florida, instead.

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

​@lizzalkula376 Go to an open speaker meeting .It's a start 😊

[@morenikejiolaidedada5830]

Is it for alcoholic alone?

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

@morenikejiolaidedada5830 AA is for alcoholic.Bur group that use the 12 steps . What are you looking for ?

[@bastaballe2153]

People described It to me as a whatever "service" made by volonteers. No mention about the spiritual part by them .... I found out the link of the authors with C.G. Jung and that made me see personally as a search for my Lost soul. The great opportunity to be a Better human being, not only avoiding alcohol.....many things : also brotherhood, tolerance, patience....how many things to learn. If i knew I joined before , I found It out when 53 y.o. After 30 years of hell. Thanx

[@Seabutterfly1]

Thank you so much.

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

Take it one day at a time ;)

[@billc.4881]

I have been sober for 12 years. I did it through the white knuckle technique. I’ve often wondered if I should have done it through AA . Did I miss something by not working the steps? Should I go through AA to support my sobriety?

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

How are you coping with your life? You can always go to a couple of meetings and give it a try. It will only cost you 3or 4 hours of your time . Having 12 years is a real accomplishment, be proud. You have saved yourself a lot of problems over the last 12 years ;) Terry G

[@billc.4881]

For the most part I’m coping well in life. I rarely think of having a drink. Good point that there is no harm in going to a few meetings. I worry I will feel like an imposter though. Like they will think what the heck are you doing here?!?!

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

@@billc.4881 It may feel a little uncomfortable at the start but give it a try.

[@billc.4881]

@@AnAlcoholFreeLife 👍🏼 What type of meeting or would it not matter? Thank you for taking the time. Much appreciated!

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

@@billc.4881 If you can find a open speaker meeting go to it.Bill when you go try and say hello to couple of people.All you have to do at the meeting is just sit and listen for a bit .If coffee grab yourself one before you sit down.

[@ashleyvampyre7469]

I wanna go but Just kinda don’t want to go alone but iguess I will

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

Go for it !!

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

How did you make out?

[@ashleyvampyre7469]

@@AnAlcoholFreeLife I plan on going soon

[@tommyvasquez111]

Thank you

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

All the best :)

[@Mr_uchiha_of_the_leaf]

Im an alcoholic but i want to change and i need help

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

Can you get to a meeting or is there anyone you can talk to about what is going on?It is very hard to get sober by yourself

[@topperharley7892]

1st meeting tonight

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

Go for it !!! Terry G

[@shaydenhornsby2342]

THANK U 😊

[@enchantress7]

In the first meeting do I have to talk?

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

No you don't. Just try and relaxes. It will all be good :)

[@jtranmer64]

Here's one thing to expect: to be shut down if you criticize any part of the program. If you are a fan of using your critical thinking abilities, you won't like these rooms. You've been warned.

[@unemployed.R6]

god i need a drink

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

You need to talk to someone. That will help you a lot.

[@user-qd9cp9tw2x]

It is a cult. Where is your brutal honesty? You lost me when you said it is not a cult. Everything after that, from you, has no meaning. Speaking from 9+ years sober. This guy needs to get honest about what he's saying. If you start your spiel with,"AA is not a cult", that's what people in a cult say; just ask a Jehova's Witness if they're in a cult....

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

Is it Cult ?

[@cajunkarl4828]

I wish I had going years ago

[@AnAlcoholFreeLife]

Are you going now?

[@kevinmelicant9566]

Love the hat. We'll always be the indians to me. Go tribe. Oh yeah I've worked my steps.