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 comes from the perspective of a long-term Al-Anon member. The member reflects on her program, her experience and the power of how HP (Higher Power) has carried the message and the member.
Through the program, the member has gathered a large supply of healthy positive experiences. All of these remind us that our Higher Power is worthy of our trust. This does not suggest we won't have difficult or challenging times, as these present us with opportunities to learn and grow - yet we are never given more than we can handle.
Even when we feel it's too much for us to deal with, guidance and comfort were present when we remained open. Today when we encounter a crisis, we can face it without fear. Our experience in the program teaches us that we can rely on a Power greater than us to help us through whatever happens. The slogan "act as if" is suggested as a tool to believe we are cared for. It is through the results presented over and over and our growth that we continue to have faith in HP and trust that all will be OK.
Today's reminder - Each day is an opportunity to build a supply of positive spiritual experiences. Today, I will take not of what happens when I trust my Higher Power.
Today's quote - "By far the best proof is experience." ------- Francis Bacon
When I arrived at Al-Anon, I was broken and defeated. I looked beyond myself for the cause of all my issues and felt beaten down and so very sad as to how my life was. I found comfort in this program, and could see the insanity all around me. It took me a while to realize I contributed to this insanity through my own actions and reactions. Others who came before me suggested I accept and surrender to a power greater than me. I had no where else to turn, so practiced what was suggested until it felt 'right' for me.
Today, I can honestly say that I am different, feel different and am grateful. I have faith in a loving HP who wants what is best for me. I know by reflecting on my time in this program that no matter what happens around me, I will be OK. I have been relieved of my want/need to fix others, and of my want/need to cure this disease. I can walk through each day with grace and dignity knowing my path is different than my qualifiers, and that's OK.
My HP has brought me through some very hard, difficult and challenging times. I am lead to solutions that never entered my brain before. He speaks to me through you all here as well as my meetings and program work. I try to surrender each morning and then do what's necessary for my well-being. It's a freedom I did not ever dream of having.
Thank you MIP family and Al-Anon for this gift and all others I've received as a result of working this program. Make it a great day all!
__________________
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
Powerful reading and beautiful share IAH, Thank you.
I can certainly attest to the validity of this reading. I know without a doubt that HP was present in my life during the difficult years of hubby's cancer and my son's relapse. I would certainly have preferred to not have to walk through these difficult times and I know that without the courage, and wisdom provided by HP I would have folded . It is amazing to see that because of these painful experiences I am able to feel more empathy, compassion and love for others . None of the pain was wasted.
As I heard at a meeting last night In alanon we learn to change our scars into stars
Thanks for your service.
-- Edited by hotrod on Thursday 2nd of June 2016 10:17:24 AM
-- Edited by Iamhere on Sunday 31st of January 2021 01:13:17 PM
Thank you for this powerful reminder. I needed it this morning.
If it weren't for my HP, I would not be here today. I know that to be completely true. I should have died, about a year ago. My HP kept me here on this earth because I have more work to do. I don't know exactly what my HP has planned for me. I try each and every day to be a blessing to others. In fact, before every other prayer request, each morning, I ask to make me a blessing.
This morning has been extremely challenging. I'm so glad for MIP, and the program, and especially for you, IAH and Betty. Hugs to both.
I agree w/ sweetness. If it weren't for my HIGHER POWER, I wouldn't even be here especially in this wonderful Program. I may be an old timer but I have been teachable & am learning more every day. I don't feel that I am worthy of any kind of respect or special treatment. We all deserve the kindness & thoughtfulness of this Program. I am grateful that I have a place to show my appreciation for you all.
But, back on the topic: It would never be possible to go through all that I have gone through w/o God. He is the center of all my universe. No one, not even the alcoholic can dictate what I should do w/ my life. I take suggestions & advice from God that happens through others but I have a choice what decisions I make. If this is not quite on topic, I am sorry. I felt like I needed to say something about this reading. It is from yesterday but I couldn't seem to get it together enough to post.
