Another View of Sponsorship

In the early days of Alcoholics Anonymous sponsorship was conducted most thoroughly.
Perhaps as a natural result of growing bigger the picture has changed. At any rate the old style of sponsoring, with the sponsor utterly devoted to his prospect is seen infrequently.
A revival of interest is needed. The following are a few suggestions:
1. Responsibility is the first principle of good sponsorship; the sponsor is the one who assumes responsibility for the person seeking help. If one is unable to devote the time and attention essential to good sponsorship, one should not undertake it. The Big Book of AA says. “Practical experience shows us that nothing will so insure immunity from drinking as intensive work with other alcoholics.”
2. Sponsorship ought to be approached with the most serious attitude AA is a life or death matter to the alcoholic seeking help. Prepare yourself for the first call on a prospect by re-reading the chapter in the Big Book, “Working with Others”.
3. Visit the new prospect as soon as possible after he calls for help. Presenting the Recovery Program to him at the psychological moment he reaches for it may be the factor that saves his life.
4. On your first visit, tell the prospective AA frankly and simply, some of your own story — with enough pauses that he may chime in with some of his own experiences and reactions. Let him ask questions. Explain how AA works but keep your presentation brief and simple. Do not wear out your welcome whe...

Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com - January 15, 2013 Category: Addiction Authors: Sparrow Tags: 12 Step Fellowships Alcoholics Anonymous Alcoholism Recovery Sponsorship AA sponsorship responsibility Source Type: blogs