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 ODA T reading for July 22 speaks about the fact that it is a waste of time to attempt to understand the disease of alcoholism by studying books on the disease. It points out that most of us do this because we believe the more information we have, the better we will be able to cope with the disease and change the alcoholic.
The reading suggests that unless we intend to become professionals, nothing is to be gained by a study of the disease, nor does it help to explore the reasons for the alcoholic behaviors, particularly since our own conduct is not entirely rational.
All change must begin with us so that the search should be for our own serenity which will prove to have remarkable power to inspire others in the home.
The thought for today is do I blame all the family adversity on the alcoholic? Have I the courage to face up to my own mistakes / character flaws?
And the quote is from Marcus Aurelius: "how much trouble he avoids who does not look to see what others say or do, but only what he does himself, that it may be just and pure".
An important concept is that:" If I am ready to learn anyone can be my teacher."
I guess the reading reinforces the fact that we should keep the focus on ourselves, live one day at a time, and place principles above personalities. All powerful program tools.
Oh my - before the program, I spent/wasted so much time trying to better understand the substances my boys were doing so I could 'fix' them. I look back on that and find gratitude that my bottom happened pretty fast compared to a life-time....
I love the concept - and it's so true. I've said it before, but will say it again - I learn so much from new members and from my doggie.....both are vastly different in how they are, but both are very wanting of acceptance and understanding. Such a simple gift this program allows us to give to others, and only through the steps, tools, and program am I willing and able to give of my true self to others.
If I still lived as I did, I wouldn't have the ability to help another or even concern myself with their issues, after all - I have my own....but the program has taught me that my time is better spent working on me, helping others who ask and living this lifestyle 'change' as best I can.
(((Hugs))) Betty - thanks as always for the daily and your ESH!
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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
