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 28 speaks about practicing the slogan:"Letting go and Letting God".
It suggests that when attending an Al-Anon meeting, if we learn to use alanon tools such as placing principles above personalities , letting go of our egos in the safety of Al-Anon rooms, we can learn to let go easier in the outside world. We can easily see that the needing to have our own way( a defect in itself) can be addressed when we practice alanon simple tools and become a equal participant in any group.
With practice, having the courage to share an idea without attempting to force an agenda will become second nature. We will find that the simple act of "suggesting an idea": is rewarding .
This difference in perspective effects each of our relationships. The reading goes on to impress upon us that it is important to express our ideas just as it is also important to accept the outcome. We have grown because we had the courage to take the risk . We must then leave the results of the actions in HP's capable Hands
The quote is from the Ghagavad Gita; "Your proper concern is alone the action of duty, not the fruits of the actions. Cast away all desire and fear for the fruits and perform your duty".
I know that I learned how to use all my alanon tools at alanon meetings. I practiced non judgmental listening as people shared. I practiced letting go of my ego and sharing with humility when it came my turn at meetings and I stopped blaming and critiquing other as I shared Meetings are such a safe place to work out new response. Thanks alanon
I see this slogan as such a heavy hitter, covering so many areas of my recovery. I was too often a say it once, then say it in different ways until it was done 'right' or I disengaged in frustration. This slogan helps remind me that my contribution may be helpful, but should be a contribution and not a demand.
The added peace this has brought me and those around me has been greatly appreciated. You make a very good point about meetings, as they certainly provide an opportunity for me to practice my program. Thank you for sharing on this page, Betty
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Paul
"...when we try to control others, we lose the ability to manage our own lives." - Paths to Recovery
Thank you Betty for the lovely ESH and the Daily! I too have learned how to express my thoughts as suggestions vs. demands and how to not take it personally when they are ignored or not used. It's perfectly fine with me to Let Go and Let God - only as a byproduct of working this program, surrendering to my humanisms and focusing on the next right thing based on God's will for me.
I can't even recall or recount how many things I took personally or allowed to change my attitude and mood in a given day before the program. Often I awoke with dread of the unknown. Knowing and believing that there is a power greater than me who can see the whole picture and lead me to peace and serenity was a huge gift and relief. I not only have a different outlook, I am so much more at peace with myself and my surroundings.
I agree Paul - this is a heavy hitter. It's as powerful for me and my program as the Serenity Prayer. For me, it truly makes me realize I am just one among many and my only concern should be me doing what's right. My life, my thinking and my days are so much simpler when I am able to deploy this lovely slogan.
Have a marvelous day all!!
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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
