When I was a Newcomer in my second year, our group paid my way to go to the MAI Convention in Downtown Milwaukee. I had never attended this type of event before, but I went with a few other members. The intergroup put on a very funny and interesting skit that made everyone laugh and feel at home.

The speakers were wonderful and really gave me a more rounded understanding of
the OA program. It was very enlightening to hear from people who had been working the program for several years. It was such a boost to my program to bring back
the message that I heard at the convention to our little weekly group in West Bend. I met people from all over the state and even some from Illinois. Some of those people are still in program and I look forward to seeing them at our annual conventions.

After that first convention, I looked forward to any opportunity to get to a large gathering of OA members whether at a MAI convention or at a Region or World Service Convention. It is like getting together with my OA family for a reunion with lots of hugs and catching up. There is something contagious about being together in a large group of recoveringmembers. TRY IT, you’ll like it!! JW