First GA Meeting

Today is 3 weeks and 1 day gamble free….

Yes, it doesn’t sound a lot! But I’ve never gone this long through my own choice/self restraint.

I attended my first ever GA meeting a few weeks ago. I had all these stereotypical thoughts of what it would be like. Shamefully, I assumed it would be full of s**m, but the people were normal and nice. They had families and jobs and were real people. It was honestly a totally surreal experience. The stories ranged from situations I considered not as severe as my circumstances but also those than seemed far graver. There was no judgment and I felt so decompressed. I genuinely cannot put into words how valuable it was discussing and listening with people that plainly understood the struggles. 
The steps had almost put me off as they seemed heavily religious in nature, but my concerns were settled by other members in the group.
I have attended a few meetings since and feel confident that I will continue to so. Unfortunately, I missed my first ‘Steps’ meeting as I was away for my birthday but I’ve read through all the literature.

If anybody is reading this and is terrified to go for the first time, let me say this…. 
Walking through that door for the first time is terrifying. It may feel totally bizarre to go round in a circle, say your name and admit you are a compulsive gambler out loud. It really does help. Listening is just as helpful as talking.