Hello, my name is [First Name] [you may also identify addiction or fellowship if you choose].
Welcome to the Madison Meditation and Recovery meeting. We are a group of individuals from a variety of 12 Step fellowships, who come together to support each other's meditation practice and explore the role of meditation in 12 Step recovery.
While we honor the 12 Steps and 12 Traditions, our meeting is not intended to replace regular attendance at 12-step meetings. While we support newcomers and strive to learn from each other, this group does not teach meditation. We are non-sectarian and do not represent any specific religion or spiritual tradition.
This group is supported entirely by contributions from its members, and is not affiliated with AA or any other 12 step organization nor with the owners of this meeting space. Members may sign up to lead the meeting, but in keeping with the 12 Traditions, our ultimate authority is our group conscience.
Our meeting is a place where each of us can practice silent, sitting meditation in any tradition or method that they choose, surrounded and supported by others with the same goal.
Are there any announcements?
We will now begin a thirty-minute period of silent sitting meditation. You may sit on the floor, on a cushion, or in a chair as you see fit. If you must move during the meditation period, please do so mindfully, and in a way that will not disturb those around you. I will ring the bell three times to begin the meditation period, and once to end it.
In our group sharing, we practice mindful speaking and listening. We use our first names only, and identify our addiction or fellowship only if we so choose. We use the words "I" or "we" instead of "you." We do not interrupt or give advice unless asked. We practice anonymity and confidentiality, so that this meeting will be a safe place for all of us.
May whatever wisdom and serenity we have gained through our meeting today be shared will all those whose lives we touch in the coming week. May we go forth from here with a renewed commitment to daily meditation, that we may deepen our conscious contact with a power greater than the self. And may we mindfully practice the principles of recovery, both for our own benefit and for the benefit of all those who still suffer.