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 ODAT page is a gentle reminder of the importance of developing and maintaining a positive focus as we progress in our recovery. There is certainly relief when we first find AlAnon and find that we are not alone, and become aware that others can relate to the fears and struggles that we may share.
The strength and purpose of AlAnon, however, is not in providing a place to continually recall, restate, and refresh the actions and atrocities of others. Healthy AlAnon groups encourage progress in recovery by focusing on the positive aspects of the program, and how AlAnon tools can and have helped us in recovery.
Today's reminder suggests the importance of viewing the program as a place to detach from our miseries, not as a place to endlessly sound off about them. This approach helps us, and all those present. In this way negative thoughts and experiences are replaced by the positive, and ineffective habits are nudged back to make room for the positive Experience, Strength, and Hope that results from focus on AlAnon literature and work on the 12 Steps.
When I find myself sidetracked and pulled away from serenity, it is an indication that I need to return my focus on solutions, not problems...I need to return the focus to me, and the incredible tools the program provides. I am very grateful for AlAnon
__________________
Paul
"...when we try to control others, we lose the ability to manage our own lives." - Paths to Recovery
Hey Paul - great to see you and thanks for the daily and your service.
This is a great read for me for today. It reminds how negative I was when I arrived, not intentionally but I truly had my energy and focus on all that was broken vs. what was good and working. In working the program to the best of my ability, and being open, I've been able to turn that around and find a much better place to 'park my brain'.
The fellowship, meetings and tools help me to redirect as necessary when life happens. I am grateful that when things happen, I can now see that they are life events and not directed at me. I believe today that my HP wants me to be happy, joyous and free and if I do what is suggested, I am open to receive all that is good.
Make it a great day - I too am very grateful for Al-Anon as well as all it gives me....including MIP of course!
__________________
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
Hello Paul Thanks for taking the time to share the wisdom from this reading in the ODAT. I have found that attending alanon meetings, with an non judgmental attitude and an open mind, I can truly;Hear my HP's t;message and grow. I believe that sharing negative issues with a sponsor, prior to meetings is important, so as not to waste meeting time rehashing negative happenings of my life .
The program suggests that we share our ESH . To me this means that I share, an issue that I have encountered where I implemented a program tool. How that tool helped me to move forward while I engaged with insanity and then the Hope where I can see that program can continue in my life so I can grow.
I am always inspired and hopeful after a meeting and that is because other abide by this formula as well.
