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 January 12 speaks about the wonderful tool of "Detachment".It offers a profound example of "detachment": for me to think about . It suggests picturing a person walking along and seeing an active beehive buzzing intently/ If the person stops and pokes their hands or nose into the hive they will be hurt but if they walk on by and do not poke their nose into the hive they will not get stung.
This is the same for us If we choose to maintain a safe distance from a dangerous situations,we too can be fine. That is what detachment is all about. When we sense the situation is dangerous to our physical, mental or spiritual well-being, we can just set distance between ourselves and the situation. Sometimes it means I don't get too emotionally involved, sometimes I need to physically leave the room or end the conversation. This doesn't mean I stopped loving the person only that, I acknowledge the needs of my own well-being and make choices to take care of myself.
Today's reminder is " we must learn to know how to end an argument by simply refusing to participate, We can turn to our higher power for help with whatever I am powerless to change and say no and step back from insanity rather than driving to it.
The quote is aN Hasidic saying; "if a man carries his own lantern, he need not fear the darkness.".
Before Al-Anon I never understood how to carry my own lantern and still be supportive of others. Thanks to this fantastic program. I can now do just that.
Thank you Betty for the daily and the ESH....Detaching for me is a great tool that allows me to back away from discomfort and gather myself and tools to act/react differently. It has not always been easy and still at times presents challenges, but I believe I am a better person for working on this vs. reacting without thought - my go-to pattern of before program.
That quote is powerful and reminds me that true happiness and peace are an inside job. If I can focus and be grateful for what's good in my life, outside distractions are so much easier to manage.
Have a great 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
