The ODA T reading for May 11 is a reminder of the way I once thought , felt, and reacted. It discusses the overwhelming   feeling of determination --that I am responsible and can  and must do something about everything.

 

 The reading points out that this attitude will do nothing constructive for me if I  retaliate for injuries and suffer because of other people's actions. 

The principles offered by. Al-Anon suggests that we are not empowered by God to even up scores or make others pay for what they did to me, instead I am asked to let go and let God and see the solutions unfold by themselves.

 

I find I can use this former determination to keep the focus on myself, and practice this program in all my affairs. 


There's another wonderful quote from Thomas a Kempis; "what hurts could it do thee,if thou wouldst let it pass,and make no account of it?  Could it even so much as pluck one hair from my head?"

 

I think, before program, I did believe that if I did not take action, respond and defend myself or tell people what to do, that in some way. I was abandoning myself and my responsibilities to the world and my family. Al-Anon has taught me, not to react, but to take my time, process the situation, remember that I'm powerless over people places and things, place principles above personalities, and respond to every situation with courtesy and respect. What a difference that makes it every relationship.

 

 I am responsible for my own serenity and peace of mind. I should not surrender it easily