Sunday, July 28th
Here was a group of strangers who knew what I had been going through.
For many, self-isolation helped fuel our sexual compulsion. Our feelings of shame and low self-esteem made us fear intimacy, and we often tried to hide our behaviors to avoid further shame.
When we attended our first SCA meeting, we may have heard other members tell their stories. We might not have initially identified with some of the details. Perhaps we hoped to hear juicy stories that would incite us to act out, even though we did not want to.
We eventually learn to relate to the feelings — not the facts — of another member’s share. Perhaps their feelings sound like our own. We might hear how that person copes with their situation: their awareness, acceptance, and actions.
When we feel safe in meetings, we begin to honestly share our struggles with sexual compulsion. We are nourished by hearing how others cope with similar difficulties, and we are encouraged by reading the literature and working with a sponsor. Fellowship with other members helps us overcome our desire for isolation and secrecy.
We rely on mutual support for our recovery. Help and support are available; we only have to ask.