Truly Empowering

I have been a proud member of OA for more than thirty years; I’ve had many relapses and also a lot of recovery in this Fellowship. I attend my region assemblies each year, but last year I was thrilled by the opportunity to go to Boston, Massachusetts USA in September 2016 for my first World Service Convention.

I had booked my hotel room a whole eleven months prior to the event. When I set out to do something, I keep close to my Higher Power and then take the necessary actions. It took me that entire year to save up for Convention, and I paid it off bit by bit. It was truly empowering to be with OA fellows and friends for the entire long weekend. Each moment was special.

I attend a daily telephone meeting (the 6:45 a.m. Sunrise meeting), and it was wonderful to actually meet face-to-face some of the many fellows I’ve gotten to know, who share so much experience, strength, and hope with me and others. At Convention, I learned a lot about our Traditions, our primary purpose, and how giving service is a cornerstone to my recovery.

I speak Spanish fluently (although I am not a native speaker), and it was a blessing to share during a Spanish meeting. It gave me perspective about how I can continue to carry the message of recovery in many different realms. One of the keynote speakers talked about carrying the message internationally and doing six months of service in her country of origin. She helped with translation of OA materials, led meetings, and now has sponsees. So many people set powerful examples that I want to emulate. My service commitment at the Convention was to sell raffle tickets, and I found other ways to be helpful. I had long, spiritual conversations with members, spoke to people in relapse, and engaged in fellowship activities. One fellow and I took a wonderful tour of Boston and had a lot of fun.

I am very grateful for the organizers of this World Service Convention and all it offered everyone. It was an amazing experience. I took notes on things I wish to remember and share with others—I can’t keep it if I don’t give it away. I continue to seek learning and growth during this spiritual experience, which I am sharing with all of you! I am so grateful to my Higher Power, the Twelve Steps of recovery, and all of you who remind me I am never alone on this journey.

Together we get better. Together we can do what we could never do alone.

— Rhonda I., Queens, New York USA