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.
The C2C reading for April 19 speaks about alcoholism being a disease. It points out that by attending meetings and working the steps we will readily accept the fact that alcoholics are suffering from an illness and are not simply bad people.
By accepting this reality, we are able to identify what is reasonable to expect when dealing with this disease. The reading goes on to state that we have the ability to adjust our expectations so that we no longer set ourselves up for constant disappointment. By not expecting a drinking alcoholic to keep every promise we make our own life easier and more manageable. The knowledge that we gain in Al-Anon also helps to alleviate our fears and anxieties and has made room for compassion for the disease.
The quote is from Al-Anon Faces Alcoholism; "I have learned techniques for dealing with the alcoholic's, so that I can develop a relationship with the person behind the disease."
I would like to add that all the tools Al-Anon has given me for dealing with the disease have been very helpful in dealing with the world in general. Practicing these principles in all my affairs as may be a kinder, gentler person in my life more manageable.
This is a good one, Hotrod. My biggest hangup is the constant disappointments by broken promises. I've had that all my life. You'd think by now I'd be so over that, but I keep trying. That little girl inside of me holding onto the promises that a child holds dear, like spending time with family, or doing something fun together, etc. I've dealt with this this weekend- oh, we'll have date night and I'll make a big dinner, and we will watch a movie. I look forward to it, then it doesn't happen. I'm tired of being disappointed and I have a lot of trust issues. I guess that's where I need to focus on my recovery. Thanks for the reading.
Gabigail
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Butterflies can't see their wings. They can't see how truly beautiful they are, but everyone else can. People are like that as well. Anonymous
Thank you for your share Gabigail. Letting go of expectations is not easy but ODAT, slowly I have been able to do so . It does make a huge difference. Glad you aree sharing the journey.
Love this particular aspect of Al-Anon ... letting go of expectations has been an essential part of my recovery and is such a useful tool overall in other aspects of my life!! Thanks Betty. xoxo
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"Forgiveness doesn't excuse bad behavior, but it
does prevent bad behavior from destroying your heart". ~ unknown
