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 today reminds us that in Al-Anon we come together as a" fellowship of equals" where no one is in charge and no one is an expert. Because the help we exchange is nonprofessional and has a specific goal, Al-Anon does not solve every problem.
It is a remarkable effective approach to recovery from the effects of someone else's drinking. The reading goes on to talk about a nurturing environment and atmosphere when people help other people by being themselves in sharing their own experiences. I found this can be true even in the workplace.
The quote is from Al-Anon's 12 steps and 12 traditions." We meet as equals and help one another not because some are experts and others are beginners, but because we all have needs and strengths."
I love these principles of Al-Anon because it is evident that those who came before us, understood what it takes to recover from living with the disease of alcoholism. I know that I had lost my voice, made myself invisible, went along to get along and lived in the denial and pretend a make-believe life.
Entering the rooms of Al-Anon and discovering that honesty, openness and willingness are the keys to opening the doors to recovery, I gladly discarded my old tools. Having this be a fellowship of equals, also gave me the courage to be able to do this without my EGO being involved. What wisdom The founders had!