Next time.......sponsor says he doesn't let the group pick a topic, can be a challenge to stay in solution. He prefers to initiate topic and says the second moment of silence is a treatment center tactic and wishes to avoid that and wants the group to be close to AA roots. (for the record - I came from streets straight to AA).
I on the other hand feel a newcomer or member may have something they want to talk about and if I can wrap a step (solution) around it we can take off. Otherwise, let's not get into advise giving and wallowing in a problem that may best be discussed with a sponsor or other member in private.
Some chairs just lose control right away for various reasons and allow the group to give advise and stay in problem. I prefer integration of solution myself.
My question to you for discussion:
What is your method/style in conducting a meeting?
