EACYPAA XIV From Darkness Into Light
February 19-21, 2016
The Eastern Area Convention of Young People in Alcoholics Anonymous was held in NYC at the Grand Hyatt Midtown (by Grand Central Station). The theme “From Darkness Into Light” is derived from page 110 of Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions. “Practically every AA member declares that no satisfaction has been deeper and no joy greater than a 12th Step job well done. To watch the eyes of men and women open with wonder as they move from darkness into light, to see their lives quickly fill with new purpose and meaning, to see whole families reassembled, to see the Alcoholic outcast received back into his community in full citizenship, and above all to watch these people awaken to the presence of a loving God in their lives – these things are the substance of what we receive as we carry A.A.’s message to the next Alcoholic.”
The 36 Principles Workshop (from the Steps, Traditions and Concepts) was held in a large Ballroom. Three long rows of tables and chairs were set up – One row for Steps, one row for Traditions and one row for Concepts. There were 2 or more presenters for each Principle and after they spoke the floor was open for 10 minutes of Q & A. This multiple workshop was all happening at the same time and people went from table to table to hear the topic(s) they were interested in hearing/discussing.
I was asked to share on Concept III, THE RIGHT OF DECISION. To tie this to my “experience” I selected two experiences; one was tied to a decision that was made and abandoned by the majority of the participants and one was serving on a committee where a member of AA took money without consent. Discussion was robust to say the least; everyone had something to share and the time went way too fast.
It was an honor to be asked to participate in this Workshop. The entire experience of being there was electrifying – it gives me deep felt conviction that A.A. will survive and thrive into the future for those in need.
Yours in Service,
Anita Lee, Alternate Delegate
