We all belong! We all belong! We are like pieces of a puzzle individually coming together to form one picture, not because of our differences, but because of what we share—compulsive overeating. Most of my life I didn’t feel as though I fit anywhere. I was a fat child suffering the indignities of what today would be called bullying; then …

Disparate yet one. Broken, but being made whole in the telling. Huddled around the campfire of our hearts. Finding a commonality, finding healing, finding wholeness. Warmed by interest, trust, and safety— our dreams and foibles uncovered. Winners and survivors despite our shortcomings. Diamonds in the rough sparkle as facets are revealed to the sun of understanding, identification, respect, and admiration. …

When I first came to the program of Overeaters Anonymous, I found out I wasn’t alone; there were lots of people who had the same disease that I had. What a relief! I no longer had to attempt to do this on my own, and I was offered the hope of recovery. As I became aware of the diversity of …