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.
Today's reading talked about being stuck and at a standstill due to dissatisfaction of our lives. We are so bogged down, we don't know where we are or where we are going. Taking time to 'Think', and engaging in Al-Anon helps us realize that negativity keeps us at a standstill. While the program suggests it's important to acknowledge whatever we feel, we then have a choice about where to focus our attention.
The program challenges us to find positive qualities in ourselves, our circumstances and others around us. Attending meetings, making gratitude lists and sharing with others in the program helps these attributes become more apparent if/when we are willing to see them.
The reading goes on to suggest we are beautiful and have a purpose just as those we encounter each day do. We are given the choice to look for the positive in everything we do and see. We come to realize that on the other side of some difficult times has been wonderful change, just for us.
The reminder discusses replacing negative attitudes with a positive one - just for today.
The quote, "Sometimes I go about pitying myself And all the while I am being carried across the sky by Beautiful Clouds"................Ojibway Indian Saying
As hard as I tried to be a positive person looking forward and hoping for a solution before this program, my tendencies were to slip backwards into negative thinking. I believe parts of this were because I tended to think or wonder, "will it always be like this?" I held onto past hurts with a death grip and anticipated negative future events based on past. I did not have the tools to take charge of my part in my life, and change my way of thinking, processing, acting and reacting.
Al-Anon helped me to learn about the disease and the diseased. The program has taught me how to be empathetic and show compassion where I had nothing but angry. I have boundaries now that keep me safe and centered and I can stand in my truth and keep my side of the street clean.
My life is not perfect - far from it, but I will take the 'better' of today when I consider my 'previous past'.
Thank you all for being here and thank you Al-Anon for showing me a better way!
__________________
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
The absolute most positive thing that has happened in my life my MIP fellowship and Al-anon. I start each day thanking my HP for the these gifts. Granted I have my moments of discouragement, but if I start each day in gratitude, it has become apparent that the discouragements are far few as time goes on!!
{{HUGS}} to you IAH for being you and your service!!
-- Edited by Iamhere on Sunday 31st of January 2021 01:09:51 PM
__________________
"Forgiveness doesn't excuse bad behavior, but it
does prevent bad behavior from destroying your heart". ~ unknown