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.
Todays reading is a focus on concept 9- personal leadership at all service levels. The writer is more of a follower than leader, but through the study of concept 9 realizes there is leadership in following good example. There is leadership in following the suggestions of the program. Although the writer is not completely comfortable as leader in many scenarios, there is much room to be a leader in the program.
I can relate to this reading because I am not one to volunteer to lead in many situations. I am more comfortable receiving rules and then following them! I like the idea that simply by listening to my conscience, performing service work and cooperating with others (as mentioned in the reading) I am demonstrating forms of good leadership.
Good morning Mary and thank you for the daily. I love the concept in 'leadership at every/any level'. I grew up with parents who had very high expectations for us and pushed us to be the best and do our best. We were informed when we did not meet expectations and for me it pushed me to focus on perfection vs. progress.
I arrived at Al-anon hurt and broken. As I studied the concepts, I truly accepted that my way of perfection vs. progress was inverted and there was a ton of peace eluding me as I rarely enjoyed the journey, and was always focused on the end game, which of course was 'my' end game vs. that of my HP.
In Al-Anon, people tend to say they accept you at any level and appreciate your contribution, big or small. I had to learn that progress is at times just showing up. There have been days where listening felt like lifting heavy weights, but it was the next right thing. Whether I am making coffee, leading a meeting or just planting my backside in a chair, I am leading my heart, soul and mind to a different and hopefully better way.
Fear of failure kept me in the back ground for a while. Because of the concepts and principles in Al-Anon, I am able, willing and confident about being a part of and being of service - no matter what is asked of me!
Have a great day Mary! Thanks for your service!
__________________
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
Thank you Mary for sharing your thoughts on the "Concepts". They are rarely discussed but so important to recovery.Leadership being defined as the ability to set a good example is a great concept and so true. That is why alanon is considered a fellowship of equals . Your post reminds me of the quote:
"Example is not the main thing in influencing others. It is the only thing." Albert Schweitzer. Thanks for your service
