IDIOTS

Types of AA Meetings

Birthday: In AA, birthdays refer to the last day (or the day after) that a member used alcohol or drugs. Birthday anniversaries are celebrated as milestones to encourage sobriety.

Cross Talk Permitted: Cross talk refers to speech in AA meetings that are directed toward a specific member, rather than the group, and is generally critical. Crosstalk is generally not permitted in AA because it is considered disruptive and can undermine the unity of the group. However, some AA chapters allow cross talk in discussions.

Discussion: AA discussion meetings in California help members share their thoughts and feelings on a specific topic related to alcoholism and recovery. A pre-determined speaker will open the meeting by sharing a topic from an AA text, such as the Big Book or AA Grapevine. After discussing the topic briefly, they will open the floor for others to speak.

Speaker: AA speakers often blend humor, faith, charm, and raw emotions before audiences. In California, speakers can effectively motivate listeners to harden their resolve against alcohol.