I may be wrong, but to me, this was about people, not politics.  Anytime innocent people are killed, we grieve, that is our nature. 
With all due respect, HP did not create us to have us kill one another, but to love and take care of one another.  What Alanon has taught me is to care for myself and others, and to live a full life, regardless of what life may hand me. IMO, the post you are referring to was not meant to offend anyone, and if it did, well, there of those of us who were offended by all those people killed.  As Kari said, it could have easily been her husband!  It was a senseless tragedy, rooted in politics, but the post was not at all political.  It was simply an outpouring of love and rememberance to those innocents who lost their lives.  Alanon teaches us that every life is precious.
Love in Recovery,
Becky1


-- Edited by Becky1 at 08:58, 2007-09-11

Sorry if I am wrong, but doesn't the top of this Board page state the following:

"Alanon Family Group Message Board

The material presented here is not Alanon Conference-Approved Literature.  It is a method to exchange information, ideas, feelings, problems, and solutions on a personal level."

First, let me say that I don't consider myself a "political person".  But this topic has made me want to express a couple of things...

I have seen many, many, many posts that didn't relate DIRECTLY to someone's situation with an alcoholic or addict.  I understand that this board is to post topics close to our hearts relating to our recovery, etc., and I think that if the safety and security of our country is close to our hearts, we should be able to express that.  Heck, we live in this great country, and I, for one, am glad that I AM able to have the FREEDOM to express my feelings on a public forum, as well at local Alanon meetings. 

Just my opinion, take what you like and leave the rest...

Kathi

The only part about that post that I could contrue as political was the word evil.  That implies judgement.  Lets face it, those that did this to our county feel we are evil too.

But I also know that in Alanon we can express how we feel.  Someone might refer to their A spouse as an a***hole in a meeting.  I've done it.  Does it mean I'm a bad person or not working my program?  No it means that I'm just not working it perfectly....and thats OK.

When I feel offended, it's usually another opportunity for me to work my program. 

Now that is not to say that when one thinks a tradition is being violated that one shouldn't question it.  We can't possibley work, especially the traditions in our group without communication amongst us to learn how we view each tradition.  How else can a GC be formed.

Also, I don't personally see this board or any other (unless the board is the actual conduit for the meeting, like some meetings are email) as an Alanon meeting.  It's more like the meeting after the meeting. 

Bob

There's no doubt in my mind that out of all the people killed, there were
Alanon and AA members.
I saw nothing at all political in that post. Just an outpouring of love for innocent souls.
It would be no different then praying for lost souls in any catastrophe like Columbine or hurricane Katrina.

6. Our Al-Anon Family Groups ought never endorse, finance or lend our name to any outside enterprise, lest problems of money, property and prestige divert us from our primary spiritual aim. Although a separate entity, we should always cooperate with Alcoholics Anonymous.

*This means that the Alanon name shouldn't be attached or affiliated with any business or political candidate/position. Like "Alanon backs for Hillary or Trim Spa".

10. The Al-Anon Family Groups have no opinion on outside issues; hence our name ought never be drawn into public controversy.

* There was no opinion at all on the incedent or controversy for that matter.

The only controversy is whether the post should be there or not.

We accept Christian prayers and mention God all the time on the board. That could be labeled an outside issue and offensive if I was Hindu.

Christy

The Rights of Appeal and Petition Protect Minorities and Insure that they be heard. We need to listen with consideration to everyone and encourage those with differing opinions (minorities) to state their views. Inviting those in the minority to speak out and listening to them with full hearts and consideration helps us maintain unity. When we hear, understand, value and incorporate minority opinions in our decision-making process, we may avoid mistakes that can occur when we are angry, hasty, misinformed or rigid. Practicing consideration compels a thorough debate, keeps us all focused on the issue at hand and validates the worth and dignity of each member. It takes courage to speak up when we are in the minority. Having permission and even the obligation to do so without prejudice or fear of reprisal often strengthens our courage. Practicing consideration and courage helps us seek resolution where everyone wins. When we are open to hearing minority voices and listen with full consideration, we all benefit because everyone is respected and included.