The material presented
here is not Al-Anon Conference Approved Literature. It is a method
to exchange
information, ideas, feelings, problems and solutions on a personal
level.
It's been awhile since I've posted here, but I do still read this board every now and then (usually right around my Al-Anon anniversary, which will be 9 years in February). Just wanted to share that life is good, and certainly that is an understatement compared to 9 years ago when I walked into my first Al-Anon meeting! What a night that was. I almost changed my mind and heading back home after I parked at the meeting place; and then ended up sobbing after sharing my newcomer story (and I'm not much of a crier, but I sure was that day!). I felt so hopeless when I entered those doors, but after hearing others share their ESH, I soon realized that maybe I could get through the Hell that I was in then. And I did with the help of my fellow Al-Anon members, my sponsor, Al-Anon literature, and this board.
Today, I don't often go to meetings anymore, but I still read my Al-Anon literature and practice the twelve steps and slogans. I sometimes need to do a 4th Step when I am stuck, but at least I know I can pull out that tool, and others, when I need to!
My AH passed away 5 years ago yesterday, and I miss our good times together. I'm sad that he has missed out on so many family milestones since then: weddings, births of grandchildren, birthdays and anniversaries. He was just 52 when he suddenly passed away after complications of heavy drinking for the last five years of his life. And my AD is still estranged from our family and has yet to hit rock bottom, though it seems like she's always very close. I just continue to love her from afar.
I have so many things on my gratitude list: five healthy grandchildren; two loving daughters and their spouses; a new job that I love; a supportive and patient boyfriend of two years; and financial security. Thank you, HP!
Thank God for Al-Anon! It works when you work it Sending you all lots of ESH and thanks for letting me share here over the years.
((GE)) Thanks so very much for reconnecting and sharing such powerful ESH. I have missed reading your wisdom and am sending positive thoughts and prayers your way
Good to see you Green Eyes and so cool to here your recovery in action. Sorry about the loss of your AH but the many blessings seem to carry you and keep you grounded. Thanks for stopping by and sharing with us!!! (((Hugs)))
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Practice the PAUSE...Pause before judging. Pause before assuming. Pause before accusing. Pause whenever you are about to react harshly and you will avoid doing and saying things you will later regret. ~~~~ Lori Deschene
Sending you all lots of ESH and thanks for letting me share here over the years.