Translating Recovery

A newcomer's guide to ACA vocabulary.

“When I walked into my first ACA meeting, I didn't understand half of what was being said. This guide is what I wish I'd had from day one.”
— Aaron, Fellow Traveler

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What you may hear

I couldn't find Serenity at home because The Committee in Your Head would start up the moment I walked through the door — every mistake I'd ever made, on rotation, with editorial commentary.

What it means

Serenity

The peace and calm that can be achieved through recovery. Breathing, present moment living.

The Committee in Your Head

The internal voices that represent past influences and messages, both positive and negative.

ACA Word of the Day

Black Sheep

(BLAK SHEEP)

The family member is often viewed as the troublemaker or outcast. Black sheep often carry the family shame.

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Being the Black Sheep of the family, I often felt blamed for problems I didn't cause.

12 Steps or "The Steps"aaron aca 2 ACA (When referencing oneself)Adult Child Authority Figure

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This is not official ACA literature. It is an independent service project by a fellow traveler.