It started about eight years ago when several men who were awaiting sentencing began attending local SA meetings. Although I suspected they were attending the meetings in an attempt to influence the court, I gradually learned this was not the primary motivation of all of them.

After sentencing, I maintained correspondence with several of these men, and I got onto the visitor’s list for one. (In Arizona, we can only be on one visitor list at a time.) As the initial member moved to a distant prison, I changed to another list, and have now been on several, while maintaining correspondence with four or five.

A couple of years ago, I picked up from prison the first and only one of this group to be released and brought him to our home for brunch. I still maintain contact with him in another state. Meanwhile those I corresponded with met other prisoners who were interested in recovery. A couple of these men, who I have never met, continue to work the Steps conscientiously by mail. This has been more effective and satisfactory than I expected at the outset.

I have tried twice to get a regular SA meeting established in the Arizona State Prison at Tucson. Both times I have gotten negative responses. I suspect the lack of interest was partly because they had a contract treatment program in operation, and partly because they were not sure of an anonymous program and an unknown leader.

Recently we got a new warden, and the treatment contract was not renewed. Through a friend, I became acquainted with a prison chaplain who decided to pursue the matter. Within the last few months I have jumped through several hoops and the issue is now before the deputy warden.

Through all of this work, I have had to develop considerable humility. But the experience has been good for my soul.