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Published: August 28th 2009
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WCNA 33
The logo of the 33rd World Conference of Narcotics Anonymous - Amor Sin Fronteras (Love Without Borders.) I know, I know ... what the heck am I doing in Spain? Three weeks ago my Dad managed to call me (it is possible!) and informed that I'd be meeting him in Barcelona on the 16th. Why Barcelona? The Catalonian capital was chosen to host the 33rd World Convention of
Narcotics Anonymous (WCNA). So here we are, along with about 5000-7000 NA fellows.
So this week, thousands of recovering addicts from across the globe flooded the streets of Barcelona. While a majority of the group came from the United States, where NA began, every continent is represented. People came from Japan, New Zealand, Iran, Israel, Egypt, South Africa, Morocco, Sweden, Turkey, Argentina, Mexico, and everywhere in between. I'm pretty sure I was the only person coming from West Africa, but I found out that there are chapters in Liberia, Ghana, and Nigeria.
Because this is an NA convention, everything is done on a service (or volunteer) basis. This means that everyone working registration, the gift shop, the help desk, etc. has shown up and said, "How can I help?" The most amazing aspect of this is the translators. English is the lingua franca of the convention, but non-Anglophones were
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NA Spain is hoping that by hosting the WNCA, the government and community will become more welcoming of the program. I saw this banner in one of the posh shopping districts of Barcelona. not left in the dark. Throughout the week, fellows have volunteered to offer translations in up to 20 languages for their peers. So at any given time, you can look to the back of the conference room and see 10-15 people in little booths working hard to keep their peers in-the-know.
A lot of people here are surprised I speak English. Most people think I'm either Spanish or Indian. This is confused even further when I say, "I'm from Indiana." And the response is always, "I knew you were from India!" Then they ask where I live and the conversation just gets more complicated.
This convention is full of interesting people with complicated answers to the question, "Where are you from?" And for my friends who know me, they know that nothing makes me happier. For example, one man that I spoke to was from Iran, but lives in Norway, working with Afghani refugees. But it's not just people's geography that's intriguing. Everyone here has come equipped with the most incredible life stories you'll ever hear. Honestly, I don't think I've ever been around a more inspiring group of individuals. Their commitment and dedication to overcoming obstacles is
Barcelona International Convention Center (CCIB)
Random artwork is littered throughout the city, like these structures outside the convention center. paramount. I wish I could talk about certain people that I've met this week, but that sort of goes against the whole "anonymous" aspect of the organization.
While it is a little awkward being there and not being a fellow, my Dad is quick to remind people that I've probably been to more meetings than they have. In fact, he says that I attended the WCNAs in Chicago and Orlando, making this my third convention. Who knew?
Bé, vaig a veure Barcelona ara ... ou bien ... "Bueno, voy a ver Barcelona ahora."
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Don Petersen
non-member comment
Great job!
Well said, again! You will fit in anywhere. Peace