It was still summer when I walked through the door of Al-Anon that first time. I recall the overwhelming sorrow in my heart, the result of the disease that was ravishing our family. I recall my feelings of fear and dread, but most of all, I remember how embarrassed and humiliated I felt as I took my seat around the table. I wanted to be invisible and hoped I wouldn’t see anyone I knew. When I summoned enough courage to glance at the group, they were smiling at me in welcome, especially the faces I recognized. Their warmth, laughter and …