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.
Our lovely Betty is sailing the high seas for the week, so I will try and do some justice to the daily C2C readings.
Today's reading begins with discussing our need to look for the similarities in this program vs. the differences. It suggests that we remember why we are all here and while we are all different, we need never feel alone.
The writer states that when they came to Al-Anon, they felt their problems set them apart from others. As time passes, the writer realized that it was fear and shame that kept them at a distance. As the writer reached beyond the details of the chaos and drama brought about because of the disease, they could clasp the hands of others affected by alcoholism and find true help.
While we are each different, we can join together for the closing prayer hand in hand as part of a circle of hope. This circle of hope is greater than any of our individual difference.
The reminder says that while we each have our own unique qualities, our hearts all beat the same under the skin. Our hearts reach out to each other's as we share our stories and faith. As we share with others, we know deep down that our shares are heart-felt, and just for today we can share our collective strength.
From the Bible, "For the body is one and has many members, but all the members of that one body, being many, are one body."
I know that when I arrived at Al-Anon, I was filled with many, many negative emotions. I felt as if I would never find peace or joy again. I had been told to look for the similarities and not the differences. I was told to have and keep an open mind. I was told to take what I like and leave the rest. I did my best and with each meeting, each reading, each share of another, I felt less alone.
I have learned that no matter how different we are, we have at least one element in common - the destructive disease of alcoholism. Our common goal of finding peace and serenity after being affected or damaged by the disease must always come first for the common good. I love my Al-Anon family dearly and would not be where I am if not for those who came before me and their willingness to share a part of them with me.
Thanks to (((all))) of you for being here - grateful for this program and the wisdom I get from each of you each day!
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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
Such an appropriate reading for Sunday, thank you so much for it. If there is one thing I learned that aside from all of our differences we are most certainly the same in our goals for a better way to live in the midst of this disease, alcoholism. Al-anon is truly a gift as well as you, IAM and everyone on MIP.
Happy Sailing Betty!!
-- Edited by Iamhere on Sunday 31st of January 2021 01:01:33 PM
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"Forgiveness doesn't excuse bad behavior, but it
does prevent bad behavior from destroying your heart". ~ unknown
