I was at an AA meeting last night and afterwards my sponsor asked me if I would be interested in doing telephone service for AA and twelve-stepping people who 'phone. She seems to think that I would be good at it and I would love to do it. I feel privileged and humbled to have been asked.
But, I also feel more than slightly nervous at the responsibility of what I will be doing. Does anyone, who does this, have any advice for me? I really would welcome all comments and suggestions. Thank you.
Take care and have a super day,
Carol
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Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind. ~Dr. Seuss
Youll have a list in front of you with all the meetings for the different districts...and a telephone list of contacts for the area..that the call comes in from...
All answering services are supposed to be just referrals....so it keeps it pretty simple..
If you do a bit of 12 stepping on the phone...thats easy also..Youve been there...:)
In this area...we get quite a few calls from the ones that are pie eyed...and we know that theres no use in trying to communicate...when they are in that condition..
So..we usually get their phone number..if they wish...and call someone on the contact list to get in touch with them...
If they are suicidal...we give them a number for the emergency mental health 24 hour..hotline number...
Simple stuff....and we dont save them all.:)
Im sure you will enjoy it..Its very frustrating at times...but very rewarding...Good luck...
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"LOVE" devoid of self-gratification, is in essence, the will, to the greatest good...of another.
Thanks so much for that. I really do appreciate it.
It really is so important to me, and especially for the person who calls, that I get it right. I so clearly remember when I made that same 'phone call and how I felt. I'm going to stay focussed on that and pray for guidance from God.
Thanks again, Phil.
Have a great day,
Carol
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Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind. ~Dr. Seuss
We have a saying on the hotline ....if the person wants to get sober everything you say will be right....if they dont want to be sober everything you say will not matter....and what phil mention mainly a lot of referals ....they give you mens and woman 12 step list for you to call...info about ...detox ...we also have info about other 12 step programs..
Thanks so much for your comments. They really have helped. I feel more peaceful about doing telephone support now.
I'll certainly remember what you said, Mikey, about if a person wants to get sober then everything I say will be right. Thanks so much for that – it was just what I needed to hear.
Have a great weekend.
Carol
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Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind. ~Dr. Seuss
