From Broken to Blessed: My Year as Friday Secretary

The year I have spent serving as the Road to Recovery’s Friday secretary has been one of the greatest honours of my life. Looking back to the miserable, terrified, suicidal 23-year-old little boy who arrived at his first Friday meeting just over two years ago, it feels unimaginable that the same person was able to find peace and joy in life – let alone host a meeting of nearly 100 alcoholics. At that time, I couldn’t fathom how anyone was even capable of standing on that stage sober, let alone sound the bell to call for order or enact their finest “Paddington hard stare” during a disruption. The only reason I was even willing to try is a testament to the transformative, miraculous power of the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous.

The growth I have experienced from every aspect of the role has proven invaluable, offering the opportunity to learn and develop through the guidance of my sponsor, my God and some occasionally lengthy Step 10s! Being asked to serve the group in any way is a remarkable privilege, as I will always need Road to Recovery far more than it needs me.

I owe a huge amount to our incredible GSR and service teams for all they do for the group week in, week out. I will be forever grateful to have been trusted and wholeheartedly supported by the fellowship throughout my tenure, and I hope to follow suit for Andrew and all those who come after.

Greg T
Road to Recovery Group, Plymouth