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 is about how a difference in our perception about any given situation can change our attitude and brighten what may have seemed like a bleak situation. The writer tells of looking at a tree that at first glance seems out of place, not healthy looking, not the type the writer is used to. After some time, the writer notices some positive characteristics of the tree and it began to seem strong, unique, and worthy of respect.
This reading reminded me of times when a few things wouldn't go as I expected and my reaction was to 'throw in the towel'. I would begin to feel defeated and hopeless. I know now that so much of the power I was giving away lies within me if I am willing to trust my HP and am willing to see things in a different light. For me part of the lesson is realizing that things are not meant to happen according to my plan just because that's what I want! Changing perception involves getting my ego in check and remembering that there is a plan but I'm not the sole orchestrator of it.
I hope everyone enjoys this day- the sun came out in CT again and that is wonderful!
Good Morning Mary, The sun is out in NYC as well and is a welcomed guest.
I do appreciate the thoughts expressed in this reading. It reminds me of the "alanon opening" where it states"changed attitudes will aid recovery". Prior to program I had black and white thinking and although I could have sworn I had an "open mind "it was not.
Program tools allowed me to listen to learn so as to become teachable and at the the same time "humble" What a difference !!!
I love how you pointed out that there is a plan and that I am not the sole orchestrator. Prior to program I did not pray for HP's will but for my will and when I did not get what I asked for I sulked-- what a difference from praying for HP's will and the power to carry it out as in the 11th Step.
Good Morning Mary and Betty - the sun is out here in KS too - we've been having nice days and strong storms each evening....I can dig it - we have tons of green and color everywhere.....I took Miss Layla out for a walk this morning and she was so excited - I thought she was going to hyperventilate in front of my eyes!! Of course, she reminds me to stay in the present as she gets this excited every day we walk and for her breakfast....ha.ha.ha.ha.
Thanks to this program, I have the tools to check myself, my motives and realize that I am so powerless over others....it is just so pointless to expect or assume things will go my way. I am grateful I've found a connection with a HP, and that helps me stay grounded and know when things are left of center, it's part of a larger plan.
I too had black and white thinking when I arrived and my attitude and outlook were never focused on what was good or working, but rather on all that wasn't working well around me. With the tools taught to me, I now can change my attitude as needed by using this program, program friends and a lovely sponsor.
Make it a great day all - enjoy that sunshine!!
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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
