Open Speaker Discussion meetings are, as the name implies, Alcoholics Anonymous, or AA meetings that feature a speaker, as well as a discussion and are open to anyone who would like to attend. The format of this type of meeting usually involves having a guest speaker, who is often a regular member of another AA home group.
The guest speaker at an Alcoholics Anonymous, or AA Open Speaker Discussion meeting usually speaks for approximately one – half the length of the meeting, with a discussion, observations and comments by the assembled AA members following. Depending on the length of the meeting, as well as other circumstances, a short break may follow the guest speaker’s talk. At meetings that feature a break, a discussion that involves comments, insights and observations regarding the speaker’s presentation is held when the break is over. At Open Speaker Discussion meetings that do not feature a break, the discussion immediately follows the speaker’s presentation.
During the ten years that I have been a member of Alcoholics Anonymous, I have probably attended more than 100 Open Speaker Discussion meetings. I can honestly state that each speaker’s talk, or presentation was unique, yet like the disease of alcoholism itself, there are certain behaviors, conditions and occurences often mentioned that are common to alcoholics everywhere. I have listened to speakers who were funny, speakers who were very serious, speakers who were somewhat boring and speakers who were very interesting. Depending on how the speaker’s tale is articulated at AA Open Speaker Discussion meetings, I often find it to be entertaining to visualize the locations, situations and eras that the various speakers recount. For instance, I attended an Open Speaker Discussion meeting last night, where the guest speaker was a friendly man in his mid – 70’s. His story was very interesting, with parts of it set in the 1940’s and ’50’s. Because of his warm, relaxed style and good communication, he provided enough imagery for me to really enjoy his speech.
Speakers at Alcoholics Anonymous Open Speaker Discussion meetings often stick to a tried – and – true method known as describing “How it was, What happened and How it is now”. Using this method of speaking, guest speakers at AA Open Speaker Discussion meetings recount what it was like when they were still actively drinking, the consequences and actions they experienced and what it is like now, after becoming sober in the Alcoholics Anonymous program. Sometimes, the speakers speak in very serious tones and other times, they offer doses of humor with their oral recitations.
After finishing his or her speech, the meeting chairman and / or guest speaker at AA or Alcoholics Anonymous Open Speaker Discussion meetings usually open the floor for meeting attendees to voice comments and to offer their opinions and ways in which they can relate to what they have just heard. Depending upon the individual meeting rules, commenters may be chosen by the raising of hands, or by going in order of seating.
Alcoholics Anonymous Open Speaker Discussion meetings are not intended to provide a platform for members to glorify or dramatize their drinking experiences, rather, these AA meeting formats are designed to provide hope and inspiration to other members of Alcoholics Anonymous. If you are already familiar with Alcoholics Anonymous Open Speaker Discussion meetings, then you are undoubtedly aware of the benefits of this meeting format. If you are new to AA, or have never attended one of these meetings, why not try attending one. You might find that it will be much to your liking and quite beneficial.
