2024 Fall Seminar Summary

The 2024 fall seminar was a the big success. We had over 30 in attendance. I think all of us enriched our lives be being in attendance. 

We started with sharing our gratitude in the Big Gratitude Circle. I was especially touched by Jon C’s heartfelt share. Although there were many that showed a real appreciation for the way our program has had a meaningful impact on their lives. 

A special thanks goes out to our keynote speaker, Greg P for his presentation entitled “Intimate Deception: Recovering From Sex Addiction and Betrayal Trauma” with his partner Tony (Antonette). He shared his very personal struggles in the program along with knowledge he has gained through recovery programs and literature. One point I especially benefited from was on “Betrayal Trauma Triggers”. Basically it was about how we can rebuild trust with our mate/partner using various methods such as transparency, the AVR formula among several other practical measures. 

Then we had a session on Sponsorship. We thank our the panelists Rick, Brian and Don. They shared with us details from the Green Book on what is involved in being a sponsor. I especially liked Don’s point that we should all seriously consider it when someone personally asks us if we would be their sponsor. That is an indicator that we are ready to take on that role. (Although he stated it more eloquently and with real conviction).

In the first breakout we had “Recovery Literature”. Dan shared his vast library of books and shared his passion for how they have helped him personally. It was very moving and has motivated me to do some reading. In fact, he borrowed me one of his books. I found a section on how we as addicts deceive ourselves and how we can recognize the truth/damage such thinking can have on us. Thank you Dan. 

Lastly, we had the music/art/poem breakout led by Paul. He is a gifted song writer and performer. His signature song is entitled “recovery me”.  Although he shared a newer one on the 12 steps. We had a poem shared by David (that unfortunately I missed) and I stepped out of my comfort zone and shared a rap entitled “The Journey of an Addict from Discovery to Recovery”.

I want to sincerely thank everyone for all of the time, effort and resources that you sacrificed to make this program a success. Paul did a great job in putting together the program. We had a great team helping set up our meeting space after the Friday night meeting and to clean up at the end of the seminar. That team included Robert, JJ, Jim, Rick, Paul, Jon, John M and others. 

We had $68 in financial contributions. Many contributed financially in other ways and we want to express our appreciation for your contributions. We had three hot dishes in amongst a variety of other food items brought by members. We had individuals pay out-of-pocket for name tags, ice, plates, cups and audio equipment. We thank Mark for getting the coffee there on time. 

I’m sure I missed mentioning some that have contributed in other ways toward our special day of recovery and for that I apologize and want to thank you for your contribution without any recognition. 

Sincerely,

John M

The Madison Area Serenity Intergroup