Growth Through Service 

What does it mean to me to be a trusted servant? I recently attended my first CoDA Service Conference (CSC). It was quite the experience! There were several opportunities for me to put my program tools to work.

First, the traveling itself comes with its own set of stresses: booking a flight, packing, navigating TSA, customs, and figuring out ground transportation. Then the preparation to speak at the conference. Pretty unnerving for me to get up and speak in front of a large group of people.

I could have stayed home and stayed in my comfort zone. I would have missed out on so much though.

Seeing the process of new motions, making new friends, meeting people in person whom I only knew through video meetings, touring a new city. I learned that I am capable of speaking in front of others, that I can present information in a clear and concise way. I also learned it’s okay to have doubts and fears as long as I don’t let them rule me. I had to remind myself that the healthy perspective is I am just one person with one set of opinions or beliefs.

CoDA works when we are all looking to our Higher Power for guidance; looking for the greater good — not just what seems right to me. It was a hard lesson in the moment with a racing heartbeat and even a few tears. But knowing that something greater than myself was at work got me through. Got me to a new level of serenity and confidence that things will work out just as they should — and they did!

I stayed over the weekend and had the opportunity to make even more friends at the International CoDA Convention (ICC). I attended inspiring workshops that focused on my internal world of thoughts and core beliefs. Tools were discussed reminding me of the importance of daily affirmations, loving myself, and how to effectively apply the principles of the Twelve Traditions in all my relationships.

I had the privilege of meeting CoDA’s founders. Firsthand, I felt their warmth, kindness and humility.

It was an amazing week of both giving of myself and personal growth. I was willing to give yet received so much more.

A trusted servant — what better way to experience the joys of recovery and serenity.

Alison J. 08.16.2024

Everybody in CoDA has a story to tell. Sharing yours may help thousands of codependents still suffering. We are always accepting submissions. Please contribute your experience, strength and hope by emailing your story to wr@coda.org.