{"id":383,"date":"2021-05-17T15:34:51","date_gmt":"2021-05-17T15:34:51","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/myfigtree.com\/dans-sandbox\/?page_id=383"},"modified":"2023-10-22T20:17:54","modified_gmt":"2023-10-22T20:17:54","slug":"dear-grace-columns","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/saaforwomen.org\/index.php\/dear-grace-columns\/","title":{"rendered":"Dear Grace column"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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The women of SAA write responses to letters they receive and publish them in the Dear Grace Column. the SAA newsletter, The Outer Circle<\/u><\/a>. We’ve listed the articles below to help you find ones you’re interested in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To learn more about the column read this article from July-August 2016. Who is Grace?<\/a>, on page 12.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Read more about the newsletter and find out how to submit articles, at saa-recovery.org<\/a> and find past issues<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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The Women’s Committee started answering these questions as part of their work “To reach out to all women with a desire to stop addictive sexual behavior through this printed medium and share with the fellowship the types of questions the Grace e-mail receives.” <\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

15 years of “Dear Grace” <\/strong>– (2007 – 2021<\/strong>)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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2023 TOC<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 17 ISSUE 1 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

My therapist says that she doesn\u2019t think I am a sex addict. I think I am, but her doubt has me confused. How can I know if I belong in SAA or not?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023-01-TOC.pdf<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 17 ISSUE 2 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

I am a man in recovery attending a mixed meeting in my town, but we rarely have women. My wife has told me she does not want me attending meetings if women are present, and several of us in the meeting are in this situation. Recently, a woman showed up to our meeting. We didn\u2019t know what to do. One of the other men in the group told her that some of our wives aren\u2019t comfortable with women attending our meetings. I don\u2019t know if she will come back. I hope she can find something that works for her, but her attending the meeting doesn\u2019t work for me. What do I do?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023-03-TOC.pdf<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 17 ISSUE 3 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why do we frequently make use of quotes? – BY WOMEN\u2019S OUTREACH COMMITTEE<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023-05-TOC.pdf<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 17 ISSUE 4 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Is SAA sex positive?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023-07-TOC.pdf<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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2024 TOC<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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2021 TOC<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 15 ISSUE 1 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I have been a member of SAA for a few years, and I have a local home group that I attend regularly. I love that there is a meeting near my home and I want to support recovery in my community. However, my meeting is pretty much all straight men (and I\u2019m a straight woman), … (Signed,) Seeking<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer:  https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/NewsLetter2021-01.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 15 ISSUE 3 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I keep hearing that it would be good for me to attend an all-women\u2019s meeting. It seems to be expected, but frankly, I don\u2019t see why. I\u2019m much more comfortable with men. Women scare me. Is it necessary for me to go to an all-women\u2019s meeting? (Signed,) Scared of Women<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/NewsLetter2021-05.pdf<\/u><\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 15 ISSUE 4 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: How do I, as an SAA member, know the difference between abstinence from my inner circle behavior and sexual anorexia?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer:<\/strong> https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/NewsLetter07-2021.pdf<\/strong><\/u><\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 15 ISSUE 5 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: Is the Women\u2019s Outreach Committee going away?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: <\/strong>https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/NewsLetter2021-09.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 15 ISSUE 6 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: My sponsor wants to schedule my Fifth Step, but I\u2019m having reservations about sharing it with her. Am I required to do my Fifth Step with my sponsor?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: <\/strong>https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/NewsLetter2021-11.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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2022 TOC<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 16 ISSUE 1 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Just who is Grace? Are you an individual? Can I be Grace?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/NewsLetter2022-01.pdf<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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VOLUME 16 ISSUE 2 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

I thought Tradition One was all about Fellowship Unity. How do \u201cspecialty\u201d meetings uphold
this tradition without creating division?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saaforwomen.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/Dear-Grace-Mar-Apr-2022.pdf<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 16 ISSUE 3 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Several people have suggested that I start recovery by going to meetings. Why can\u2019t I just work the Steps with a sponsor? I\u2019m not able to go to meetings, but I really want to get going on recovery<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022-05-TOC.pdf<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 15 ISSUE 5 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

I tend to sexualize caring women authority figures. I\u2019m afraid that I might make a woman sponsor my Higher Power or the object of my fantasies, but I don\u2019t feel comfortable around men at all due to past trauma. What do I do? Should I get a sponsor that is a woman or a man?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022-09-TOC.pdf<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 15 ISSUE 6 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

I usually love my meeting, but lately, it feels like everyone there is struggling in recovery. I\u2019m not excited to go to meetings anymore, and I sometimes leave feeling worse than when I arrived. What can I do to fi nd the experience, strength, and hope in recovery when it feels like all my recovery friends are on shaky ground?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022-11-TOC.pdf<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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2019 TOC<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 13 ISSUE 1 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I am trying to attend telephone meetings but there has been an intruder interrupting the meetings saying inappropriate things and I am scared to go back. What should I do? (Signed,) -Scared to call<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/NewsLetter2019-01.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 13 ISSUE 2 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I feel stuck reading the same things over and over. Do you have any favorite readings that have helped in your recovery? (Signed,) Stuck<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/NewsLetter2019-03.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 13 ISSUE 3 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: Is fear a character defect? I thought fear was a natural emotion. Signed, Uncertain<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/NewsLetter2019-05.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 13 ISSUE 4 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: What are meetings like? What if I am the only woman in the meeting? (Signed,) Woman Newcomer<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/NewsLetter2019-07.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 13 ISSUE 5 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: What is a sponsor? How do I get one? Why do I need one? (Signed,) New Member<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/NewsLetter2019-09.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 13 ISSUE 6 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: As a man, I am fearful of women attending my meetings. Are there any tools\/resources that can help men not only feel safe but also welcome women in SAA meetings? (Signed,) Man Afraid of Women in Meetings<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/NewsLetter2019-11.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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2020 TOC<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 14 ISSUE 1 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I\u2019m a man who wants to attend meetings with women, but my wife is afraid of that. What tools\/ resources can help? (Signed,) Man Wanting to Heal with Women<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/NewsLetter2020-01.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 14 ISSUE 2 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I am friends with some of my sobriety \u201csisters\u201d (those with whom I share the same sponsor), but there is now conflict between one of them and my sponsor. I feel uncomfortable because they are both people I care about. How do I handle this situation? (Signed,) caught in the Middle<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/NewsLetter2020-03.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 14 ISSUE 3 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: People in my life can\u2019t seem to accept that I am a sex addict. … (Signed,) Not Getting Acceptance,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/NewsLetter2020-05.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 14 ISSUE 4 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I\u2019m confused. Our Green Book says that there is no one right way to work the steps and to get sexually sober, but I\u2019ve attended meetings where I\u2019ve heard that if I don\u2019t do things in just a certain way, I am not going to be able to get abstinent or stay abstinent. How can this be? (Signed,) Befuddled<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/NewsLetter2020-07.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 14 ISSUE 5 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: Sometimes, I feel like I am the only woman who has trouble with porn! The people in my life, and even some of the people in my meetings, seem really surprised when I share about compulsive porn use. It feels like they think that is a \u201cguy problem.\u201d I know I have trouble. I\u2019ve spent so much time online that I\u2019ve never been in a relationship; I\u2019ve never even dated. But can I truly be a sex addict if I have never had sex with another person? (Signed,) Confused<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/NewsLetter2020-09.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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2017 TOC<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 11 ISSUE 1 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I want more of a face-to-face presence in my recovery. There are a couple of other women at the in-person meeting I attend, but I don\u2019t really connect to either of them. Can you help me? (Signed,) Face-to-face<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/NewsLetter2017-01.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 11 ISSUE 2 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I\u2019ve just started going to meetings in my area. I\u2019ve got a very close friend whom I suspect may also have a sex addiction, but may not be ready to admit it to herself. Do you have any advice on how best to approach the topic without upsetting her? (Signed,) Helping a friend<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/NewsLetter2017-03.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 11 ISSUE 3 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: Help, please. I want to start my recovery journey as soon as possible. Not a moment to lose! I\u2019m looking for a sponsor, but are there other things I can do right away? (Signed,) Anxious to Begin<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/NewsLetter2017-05.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 11 ISSUE 4 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: My sponsor and I agree that I\u2019m ready to date now that I\u2019ve completed the steps, and I\u2019m really scared. I\u2019ve never dated as a sober person. Actually, I\u2019ve never dated at all; … (Signed,) Ready to date<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/NewsLetter2017-07.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 11 ISSUE 5 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I am friends with some of my \u201csobriety sisters\u201d (those with whom I share the same sponsor), but there is now confict between one of them and my sponsor. I feel uncomfortable because they are both people I care about. How do I handle this situation? (Signed,) \u2014Caught in the Middle<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/NewsLetter2017-09.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 11 ISSUE 6 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I am new to SAA and have been looking for a sponsor. I have asked two people and both of them told me they only work with people who have the same Higher Power they do. I really want to get started on the steps but I don\u2019t even know what my Higher Power is! Are they allowed to do that? I thought this was a program for all beliefs. Signed, Confused<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/NewsLetter2017-11.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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2018 TOC<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 12 ISSUE 2 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: A newcomer confided in me that they were approached in an obviously sexual manner by a long-term SAA member. Whom do I report this to and what do I tell my friend? (Signed,) Concerned<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/NewsLetter2018-03.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 12 ISSUE 3 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I would like to do more service within the fellowship, especially for women, but have no idea what I can do beyond reading and sharing at meetings since I haven\u2019t finished the steps yet. How can I find service opportunities? Signed, wanting to help<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/NewsLetter2018-05.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 12 ISSUE 4 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace:  I am not getting sober with my current sponsor, so I have asked another sponsor to take me through the steps, but I am keeping my current sponsor. Is this okay? (Signed,) Two-Sponsors<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/NewsLetter2018-07.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 12 ISSUE 5 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I just heard about a new SAA Women\u2019s Intergroup. Does this mean the Women\u2019s Outreach Committee (WOC) is going away? I don\u2019t understand why we would need both. So I guess the new intergroup will be taking over all the stuff the WOC does now? Will you work for the intergroup? Will you still do this column? What will happen to the Grace list? Sincerely, What about the WOC? (Signed,) What about the WOC?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/NewsLetter2018-09.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 12 ISSUE 6 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I have got a lot of personal\/outside issues going on in my life right now and do not have time to work the Steps. I am on Step Two. Should I keep coming to meetings? My sponsor says she can\u2019t work with me if I won\u2019t work my steps, but I need her to listen to my problems and help me solve them. (Signed,) \u2014Lost<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/NewsLetter2018-11.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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2015 TOC<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 9 ISSUE 1 PAGE 12<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I\u2019m confused. Our Green Book says that there is no one right way to work the Steps and to get sexually sober, but I\u2019ve attended several different meetings where I\u2019ve heard that if you don\u2019t do things in just a certain way, you are not going to be able to get abstinent or stay abstinent. How can this be? (Signed,) Befuddled<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/NewsLetter2015-01.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 9 ISSUE 3 PAGE 6<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I have emailed grace@saa-women.org to get a sponsor, but so far Grace hasn\u2019t found me a sponsor. Why won\u2019t Grace help me? I keep waiting for her to assign me someone, but she hasn\u2019t. (Signed,) Sponsorless<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/NewsLetter2015-05.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 9 ISSUE 4 PAGE 12<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I\u2019m new to this whole thing, and I don\u2019t get why my sponsor is telling me to do certain things. … (Signed,) Dear Do I Have To,<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/NewsLetter2015-07.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 9 ISSUE 5 PAGE 12<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I am a man in recovery attending a mixed meeting in my town, but we rarely have women. My wife has told me she does not want me attending meetings if women are present, … Sincerely, Doesn\u2019t Work for Me<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/NewsLetter2015-09.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 9 ISSUE 6 PAGE 12<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I am a guy who has witnessed many women come to our meetings over the years and not come back. Is it something we are doing? … (Signed,) \u2014 A guy who wants to see change<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/NewsLetter2015-11.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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2016 TOC<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 1 PAGE 12<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: Our meeting gets a lot of newcomers, but they don\u2019t seem to stay. Most of them come to one or sometimes two meetings, and then we never see them again. … Any advice for me? (Signed,) Discouraged<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/NewsLetter2016-01.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 2 PAGE 12<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I recently attended a telephone meeting with about 30 men, and it appeared that I was the only woman on the call. … Sincerely, Sick of Stories<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/NewsLetter2016-03.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 3 PAGE 12<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I attended my first SAA meeting last week. It was listed on your website as mixed, but there were only men there that night. … (Signed,) Loveless<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/NewsLetter2016-05.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 5 PAGE 12<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I was in a meeting where they read their inner circles. Several women had \u201csexual activity with other women\u201d in their inner circle. I know the literature says all sexual orientations are welcome, but is that really true? Why do people have this in their inner circle? I just want to know if I have a place here. (Signed,) Confused<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/NewsLetter2016-09.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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2013 TOC<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 7 ISSUE 1 PAGE 22<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I\u2019ve been in the program for a little over a year. I\u2019ve been sober for four and a half months, and I\u2019m on Step Four. I feel that I\u2019m ready to start dating, but my sponsor strongly suggests I wait. … Sincerely, Tick-tock<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/NewsLetter2013-01.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 7 ISSUE 2 PAGE 22<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: Do I have to listen to my sponsor\u2019s suggestions? Some of the things she suggests that I do (for example, waiting a year or more before dating) seem really extreme! I\u2019m not sure if it\u2019s truly what is best for me. Sincerely, Confused<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/NewsLetter2013-03.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 7 ISSUE 3 PAGE 18<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: There is a man who makes me feel very uncomfortable at meetings. I have been told by a couple of other men that this man apparently makes a point of doing this and has driven out several women. What can I do to feel safe? (Signed,) \u2014Intimidated<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/NewsLetter2013-05.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 7 ISSUE 5 PAGE 16<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I am new to SAA and just finished my First Step, I am struggling with Step Two and am feeling everyone else is making more progress than I. Am I doing something wrong? (Signed,) \u2014Desperate<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/NewsLetter2013-09.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 7 ISSUE 6 PAGE 20<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: Just who is Grace? Are you an individual? Can I be Grace? (Signed,) \u2014Curious<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/NewsLetter2013-11.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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2014 TOC<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 8 ISSUE 1 PAGE 14<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: Isolation is something I struggle with all the time. I use tools like phone calls, and outer circle activities, but inevitably I end up in isolation before I even know I am there. … (Signed,) \u2014Isolated<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/NewsLetter2014-01.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 8 ISSUE 2 PAGE 16<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I have got a lot of personal\/outside issues going on in my life right now and do not have time to work the Steps. I am on Step Two. Should I keep coming to meetings? My sponsor says she can\u2019t work with me if I won\u2019t work my steps, but I need her to listen to my problems and help me solve them. (Signed,) \u2014Lost<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/NewsLetter2014-03.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 8 ISSUE 3 PAGE 16<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I\u2019ve been coming to SAA for three months. There is a guy at my meeting who keeps looking at me. I feel myself falling for him. What do I do? (Signed,) \u2014 In Love?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/NewsLetter2014-05.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 8 ISSUE 4 PAGE 18<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: If I have a relapse do I have to start my steps over? (Signed,) \u2014Not Sober<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/NewsLetter2014-07.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 8 ISSUE 6 PAGE 16<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: How can I tell if the meetings I\u2019m attending are healthy, safe and sober? (Signed,) \u2014Unsure<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/NewsLetter2014-11.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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2011 TOC<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 5 ISSUE 1 PAGE 23<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: How can I find a sponsor?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/NewsLetter2011-01.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 5 ISSUE 2 PAGE 23<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I acted out with someone in my face to face group. What do I do? Is my meeting still safe to go to? (Signed,) Can\u2019t Go Back<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/NewsLetter2011-02.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 5 ISSUE 3 PAGE 21<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: How long will it take me to complete the Twelve Steps of SAA? (Signed,) Impatient<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/NewsLetter2011-05.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 5 ISSUE 4 PAGE 22<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I have been hearing a lot about a recent women\u2019s retreat held in March. What is the difference between this and the annual convention? Is the convention also a retreat? Is the retreat a convention of sorts? (signed) Curious About Attending<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/NewsLetter2011-07.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 5 ISSUE 5 PAGE 23<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I attended a meeting recently but I was the only woman there. I am not sure I belong here. Can you connect me with a women\u2019s -only meeting? (Questioning)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/NewsLetter2011-09.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 5 ISSUE 6 PAGE 21<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: Can I deal with love or relationship addiction in SAA or do I have to go to a different program? (Wondering)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/NewsLetter2011-11.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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2012 TOC<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 6 ISSUE 1 PAGE 18<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I hear there\u2019s a phone list of women members. It would be great to be able to call women in recovery\/ How can I get this list? (Signed,) Willing<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/NewsLetter2012-01.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 6 ISSUE 2 PAGE 20<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: What do I do if another woman triggers me at a meeting: Can I ask her to stop coming to the meeting? (Signed,) Triggered<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/NewsLetter2012-03.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 6 ISSUE 4 PAGE 17<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I am fairly new to SAA and I have attended telemeetings for four or five months. I\u2019m wondering why the women share their circles as they are checking in at the start of the meeting. To be honest, that part of the meeting makes me feel uncomfortable. (Signed,) Uneasy<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/NewsLetter2012-07.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 6 ISSUE 5 PAGE 20<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: How do I know if my relationship with my sponsor is healthy? (Signed,)  \u2014Questioning<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/NewsLetter2012-09.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 6 ISSUE 6 PAGE 26<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I just started attending SAA meetings and am overwhelmed with all the new things I am asked to do in order to stay sober. Do I really need to spend so much time going to meetings, making phone calls, and doing Step work? How long will it take for me to recover? (Signed,)  Overwhelmed<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/NewsLetter2012-11.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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2009 TOC<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 3 ISSUE 1 PAGE 21<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I have been to a few meetings, and other members are encouraging me to call them.  Why do I need to call other people in recovery? Signed, Temperamental in TN<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/NewsLetter2009-01.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 3 ISSUE 2 PAGE 21<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I just got home from treatment for my sex addiction and I live in a remote area of Ohio. There are no meetings close to me, but I want to stay sober. Can you tell me what I can do each day to support my recovery? Signed, Optimistic in Ohio<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer:  https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/NewsLetter2009-03.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 3 ISSUE 3 PAGE 28<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I am in recovery. What should I be looking for in a sponsor? Signed, Mixed Up in New Mexico<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/NewsLetter2009-05.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 3 ISSUE 6 PAGE 20<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: Will you be my sponsor? If not, where can I find a sponsor? (signed) Sponsor-less in Spokane<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/NewsLetter2009-11.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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2010 TOC<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 4 ISSUE 6 PAGE 20<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: What was it like going to your first face to face meeting and being the only woman there? Signed, Scared to Go:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/NewsLetter2010-11.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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2007 TOC<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 1 ISSUE 2 PAGE 20 \u2014<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I went to SAA for a while and I couldn\u2019t handle all of the God stuff, but I can\u2019t stop sexual acting out either, what should I do? (Signed,) Agnostic in Alaska<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/NewsLetter2007-09.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 1 ISSUE 3 PAGE 27 \u2014<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I\u2019m the only woman at my meeting; how do I know I belong if I\u2019m not hearing my story? (signed) Do I really Belong Here?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/NewsLetter2007-11.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 2 ISSUE 1 PAGE 29<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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2008 TOC<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: What do I do if my sponsor does not always answer the phone? Signed, Endlessly Dialing<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/NewsLetter2008-01.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 2 ISSUE 2 PAGE 26<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

(Dear Grace: ) My SAA group collects money from me and others in my group; where does it go? Signed, Prudence<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/NewsLetter2008-03.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 2 ISSUE 3 PAGE 31<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: What was it like going to your first face to face meeting and being the only woman there? Signed, Scared to Go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/NewsLetter2008-05.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 2 ISSUE 5 PAGE 29<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: I\u2019m a professional in my community, and I can\u2019t attend a meeting because I am too afraid, embarrassed, and ashamed. Do you have any suggestions for me? Signed, Well-Known in Washington<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/NewsLetter2008-09.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VOLUME 2 ISSUE 6 PAGE 17<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dear Grace: Thank you for your quick response to my first email. I can\u2019t realistically to to meetings every day. I have a husband and three children at home as well as a full-time job, and I don\u2019t think anyone else understands how difficult it is to get there! Signed, Overwhelmed in Oregon<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Answer: https:\/\/saa-recovery.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/10\/NewsLetter2008-11.pdf<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

The women of SAA write responses to letters they receive and publish them in the Dear Grace Column. the SAA newsletter, The Outer Circle. We’ve listed the articles below to help you find ones you’re interested in. To learn more about the column read this article from July-August 2016. Who is Grace?, on page 12. …<\/p>\n

Dear Grace column<\/span>Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-383","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/saaforwomen.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/383","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/saaforwomen.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/saaforwomen.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/saaforwomen.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/saaforwomen.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=383"}],"version-history":[{"count":9,"href":"https:\/\/saaforwomen.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/383\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":8137,"href":"https:\/\/saaforwomen.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/383\/revisions\/8137"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/saaforwomen.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=383"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}