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 July 1 is extremely important. It points out that when we enter the rooms of Al-Anon, we have lost much of our self-esteem and feel full of self-pity and resentment. Living with the disease of alcoholism we have been harshly criticized by others,lost our perspective on the situation and become hard on ourselves. This is part of our disease, the self-destructive habit of beating ourselves up.
Although it takes time, self-confidence will be restored and does come slowly and grows with practice. This can happen if we make our daily gratitude and asset lists, and by really looking at our positive qualities.
When we find negative self-critical thoughts running through our head, we must make the effort to defuse them by remembering an asset. I found this very helpful. I also just simply recited the serenity prayer over and over in my head or a slogan such as:"Let Go and Let God or keep it simple.
These ANTS, "automatic negative thoughts"were diffused, and were not so automatic anymore.To my surprise, they were replaced by serenity and the ability to enjoy the moment, a squirrel, a flower, a sunset, a nice conversation.
The reading goes on to say that in time and practice, we learn to treat ourselves with compassion and gentleness, and because of this our admirable qualities have a chance to shine.
Today's reminder is:"Today I will make an effort to remember that I'm a terrific human being."
The quote is from Langston Hughes; "everything there is but lovin leaves a rust on your soul.".
Since I am against being "rusty", I will practice placing principles above personalities and make an asset and gratitude list daily. Restored, self-esteem and self-worth is certainly worth that effort.
I do hope all you terrific human beings, have a lovely day.
Thanks for the daily and the ESH & Wisdom you have shared.
I am always amazed at how my self-value and self-esteem can slip by things way beyond my control. I've been dealing with some loss this week, and am sad/grieving. Well - clearly I can not control the passing of a lovely dog nor the passing of a lovely young person, but the sadness I feel is pulling at other parts of me...
I needed to hear that I am a terrific human being - as well as the reminder about assets and gratitude. I just suck @ processing death some times.....
Have a gr8 day and thanks for the marvelous summary!
__________________
Practice the PAUSE...Pause before judging. Pause before assuming. Pause before accusing. Pause whenever you are about to react harshly and you will avoid doing and saying things you will later regret. ~~~~ Lori Deschene
