The ODA T reading for May 13 speaks about how we feel ,when we first come to Al-Anon looking for support and relief from the pain of living with the disease of alcoholism. It points out that we  are being torn down by the drinkers guilt and self reproach and this has left us feeling invisible and with no self-esteem.

The reading stresses that we are not looking for approval or praise from others but that we want the inner confidence that we are worthy of respect and adequate human beings. We need to learn that we have rights as individuals, no matter how grim the home situation is.

 

Today's reminder goes on to say that the restoration of self-esteem is one of Al-Anon's primary functions. This does not encourage her big EGOe view of ourselves, but in helping us to see ourselves as we really are. We learn to discover our good qualities and to build stronger, better personalities.

 

The quote for today is; "I am grateful for what Al-Anon is doing for me. I am relieved to know that I can have a better picture of myself that I came in with and that I must respect and like myself as his person before I can begin to grow,"

I found the restoration of my self-esteem.one of the most powerful gifts that f Al-Anon did provide..  My sponsor suggested that performing esteem able  actions helped to restore  self-esteem. Attending meetings, letting go of judgment, criticism, gossiping, praying,d meditating and using Al-Anon slogans all worked together and helped rebuild my damaged self. Small steps,one day at a time, including gratitude and asset lists may be more visible and acceptable to myself.