Good morning MIP family!  Today's daily reading discusses our 8th Tradition - which states taht our 12 Step work should remain nonprofessional.  This is further and simply explained that as Al-Anon members, our ESH (Experience, Strength & Hope) is more than enough to help others recover from the devastating impact of this disease.

The reading goes on to discuss helping others who want help.  We have all spent tons of time and energy trying to help those who DID NOT want our help!  As we learn and grow in the program, we realize how different and rewarding it feels to be able to help others who want/need it.  Because of our own experience with alcoholism, we are better able to understand and empathize with others.  There is gratitude in realizing that something positive has come from our difficulties.

The program shows us how to give and receive without guilt.  We don't have to keep score, owe another who helps us or expect anything from those we've helped.  Working the program shows us that we must give away what we've learned in order to keep receiving. 

Today's reminder suggests that one of Al-Anon's greatest gifts in the ability to share our ESH with others as an equal.  

The quote is from Albert Schweitzer - "The only ones among you who will be really happy are those who will have sought and found how to serve."

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If I had arrived at Al-Anon and been told what to do, when to do it and how to 'be successful', I would not have lasted.  Part of my own sickness was the loss of me, my person, my hope, my spirit.  Hearing that recovery was a personal journey that we travel together but with our own timeline helped me to relax, listen, learn and breathe.  I have often said that when I arrived, I felt I had not breathed deep in years.  That was the first freedom I got - coming to a safe place without judgment and being allowed to just breathe.

I almost felt as if I was breathing in peace, hope and 'fresh air'.  I truly did not realize how toxic my own environment was until I felt the love at an Al-Anon meeting.  I can never repay back the gift of love and acceptance I received when I came to Al-Anon so broken, but I can pay it forward for others who come in and need support, love and empathy.

Serving others is a gift unto itself.  I always feel better when I have done something to help another, without being asked, without being acknowledged and even better when I can do it anonymously.  Simple things like making coffee, stacking chairs, reading at a meeting, giving a hug - make all the difference in my own day/life.

So very grateful for the steps, the traditions and the program exactly as it's written.  Thank you Al-Anon and MIP for helping me be a better version of me!!!

TGIF family!