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.
I just wanted to share something that my sponsor did for me....
At christmas we always exchange gifts. Last christmas she blew me out of the water w/her gift.
I got an italian charm bracelet w/the word COURAGE written on it. She told me that for the 9 yrs that she has sponsored me and knowing things that have happened in my life, that courage was what she thinks of when she thinks of me.
This bracelet has more value in it than I ever thought. I eventually filled up the other links w/charms that include the serenity prayer and slogans from the Program.
What I find amazing is that it is a physical reminder for me at times to remember to use the Program in my life. Having something to look at, reading the prayer or the slogans seems to set my mind back on track. It is like walking around w/one of my books all day long!
Today I am so grateful to have such a wonderful sponsor in my life. Who has been there thru a breakup, a marriage, children born, devasting catastrophes, and wonderful spiritual enlightments...
For those that don't have sponsors, there is really something to say about having one. That one on one, helping you work thru the Steps and guiding you along the way is priceless.
You are incredibly lucky to have her. Don't forget to tell her that!
The charm bracelet was an amazing gift. Call it a life stripe.
My A and I both wear our "Live Strong" bracelets (the real ones we get from the foundation) as a reminder. We are having rings made to add to our wedding rings that say the same thing.
Glad to hear you're doing well. Keep it up and enjoy your day.
Live strong, Karilynn
__________________
It's your life. Take no prisoners. You will have it your way.
I am VERY fortunate to have such a strong and committed sponsor as her. I remember doing one of my steps and disclosing something real personal and very humiliating to her. I was so ashamed and kept this secret hidden inside of me for a long time.
After I said the words and just sat there crying her response to me was "I still love you." I never in my life have ever had that. Never was able to feel free to be totally honest w/out feeling that love from another would be conditional. She's the one person that knows more about me than anyone else and keeps me on track. She helps me work thru my baggage and keeping the focus on me.
I tend to isolate myself and where other people have just come to accept it, she'll call me on it. When I'm not reaching out, she reaches out.
I just can't say enough about how important sponsors are. I hope that someday (lol..you'd think after 9 yrs I would be ready)that I can be as good of a sponsor as she has been to me.
