Past DCM Experience
For a long time, it was a tradition at District 54 meetings to set aside time in the second January of each panel to hear from past DCMs, who would share with the Trusted Servants "what they saw, heard, and felt". As time has passed and we have found that we cannot always rely on oral testimony, we've created this space for those who have served as District Committee Members to document significant events, so that "we will not regret the past, nor wish to shut the door on it."
1. What were significant accomplishments by District 54 during your tenure?
"Maintenance and expansion of District Service Committees to further serve member groups.
Formulate and approve District Guidelines to be used as guiding principals for the future." - Jim C, Panel 53 (2003-2004)
"We were able to finalize a brochure for AA members who were interested in doing Corrections work. We voted (along with Districts 53 and 55) to end our membership in Combined District 5 as it was a duplication of the NETA and the district felt participation in NETA was most important." - PJ H, Panel 55 (2005-2006)
2. Does any anecdote/event stand out to your during your time as DCM?
"The Area Treasury found itself without any money at the end of Panel 51 – the District and the District groups “stepped up” to contribute extra and make sacrifices to support the Area. It was a wonderful example of how we rally as a Fellowship, Area, District, etc. when faced with a challenge." - Jim C, Panel 53 (2003-2004)
"I and another member of District 54 were meeting due to a conflict that was getting acrimonious. We met at an IHOP in Richardson and talked for about an hour-and-a-half. Neither of us were swayed by the others but the contentiousness of the event dissipated during our conversation. As we stood to hug a man in the booth next to us introduced himself as a member of AA from a city outside of the Metroplex. He said he didn’t mean to eavesdrop but he had figured out we were members of AA who were in disagreement on a certain subject. He said “it was incredible to see the principles of this program in action”. We all hugged before we parted company." - PJ H, Panel 55 (2005-2006)
3. How did serving Alcoholics Anonymous at the District level (in any capacity) enhance your life?
"General Service work in any capacity has truly completed the AA Triangle for me. It has allowed me to be a part of the whole while enriching my personal growth. Knowledge of and practicing all three Legacies to the best of my ability has made me a better member of the Fellowship, but, more importantly, has allowed me to become a better person and a useful member of society." - Jim C, Panel 53 (2003-2004)
"I was introduced to Concept 9 when I was a GSR. Through reading and practicing the essay that is part of this Concept, I was able to identify qualities of leadership that I wanted not just in my AA life, but in my home, professional life and in my community." - PJ H, Panel 55 (2005-2006)
