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 September 16 speaks about "negative thoughts" and suggests that in the midst of a crisis these thoughts tell us the worst-case scenario and It is easy to think that they reflect the truth. The reading goes on to explain" feelings are not facts" and that these ANTS (Automatic Negative Thoughts) are simply just feelings and are not prophecies aswe don't get to know what will happen tomorrow. We must remember that counting on a particular outcome can lead to disappointment and that a positive outcome is just as likely as a negative one. We must constantly remember that we are powerless over the results of our actions, we can try to make wise choices, but what will happen in the future is out of our control and we can attempt to trust that HP can use whatever happens to further our growth.
The reading goes on to suggest that today we can place the future in HP's hands and trust that by turning it over. It can be used for good.
The quote is from Ralph Waldo Emerson this time, like all times is a very good one, if we but know what to do with."
After living with the disease of alcoholism for so many years, I do believe I automatically or unconsciously lost hope and developed the ability to project negative outcomes to every event . I think this was my protection so that I would not be disappointed as I had so often in the past. I could never see the glass as half full--- it was always half-empty. Working the program, attending meetings, using the slogans, working the steps all worked out a dramatic change that I was unconscious of happening. One day I could see the glass half-full and Hope was restored !!! I am so grateful for this.
I must note that my automatic negative thoughts ANTS still fly around over my head. With the help of program I elect not to pull them in and make them fact.
Thank you Betty, you have really inspired me with your ESH. Those ANTS are always flying over my head, and I still pull them in. Im growing though... I call The forum and the online meetings my temporary sponsor..Ha! So far the program is working or me...so I am not going anywhere.
Thank you Betty for the daily and the ESH. I too must admit that the ANTS are 'in wait' and always ready to be deployed. I have to work this program to keep them where they belong....and if one sneaks/creeps in, again - use the program to 'take it down.'
I hold on to the promise that HP will lead me and guide me where he needs me to go.....and as Debb suggests try to stay in the present. Keeping it simple sure helps me avoid the chaos/drama that I used to live with often.
Glad to be here and glad you all are here too! Helps me when the ANTS are trying to invade me/my mind.
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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
