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 talks about how each of us as individuals uses this program. We each move at a pace that works for us, and practice the principles as best we can. This is why our program works so well - we try as best we can to grow and change what we can, and allow others the same grace and dignity. We don't give advice, we don't judge and even if we are hearing the same story again and again, we do our best to not throw off statements such as, "Quit feeling sorry for yourself."
We each struggle at times and how great is the gift of compassion, patience and tolerance others have shown us! As we understand more about the disease and Al-Anon, let us all try to assist others without judgment and advice and work to be better listeners.
Today's reminder --- Today I will try to extend to my fellow members the respect, patience and courtesy that I want for myself.
Today's Quote --- from a Sioux Indian Prayer --- "Great Spirit, help me never to judge another until I have walked in his moccasins."
Most of us arrive to Al-Anon without knowledge or the disease and with great pain, anxiety and fear. Those who came before me were patient, tolerant and full of grace as I tried to find my way into active recovery. I came to fix others in my life and it took me a bit to understand that the program is about changing me. I would still be lost and very broken if others hadn't shown me the way and I do my best to return the favor for newcomers.
I have been given a gift - a gift of freedom from the chaos and insanity caused by the disease of alcoholism. I have chosen to do the best I can with what I have to find peace and joy in my life - no matter what others are doing or are not doing. I am grateful for the gift of recovery and pray each day for those who are still suffering.
TGIF everyone! Make it a great day!!
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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
Great reading IAH and oh so true. I have found that by simply giving others the respect of listening with an "open non judgmental mind, as we do at meetings, they know I care and feel my compassion. Love the statement in your share that said:" have been given a gift - a gift of freedom from the chaos and insanity caused by the disease of alcoholism. I have chosen to do the best I can with what I have to find peace and joy in my life " I agree completely
I can take care of myself can still be supportive and compassionate to others-- Who Knew!!!!!
Have a great Friday Thanks for our service as I am off to the beach once again. :)
-- Edited by Iamhere on Sunday 31st of January 2021 01:12:39 PM
Oh Betty - enjoy the beach today! We are having a lovely cooler morning here and the sun is shining brightly! Layla took me for a walk already and I wish I were closer to a beach....but will enjoy the 70s and the sun as I run errands.
I am playing my first softball tourney since my head shot tomorrow so won't be around too much. I am excited and scared all at the same time - feel like a 10 year old....but it's a good feeling - have a marvelous beach day!!
(((Hugs)))
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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
Thanks Iam and Betty, such a great page and reminder for me. How I find myself reacting to the comments or behavior of others is a great barometer for where my program is in the moment, an indicator of when I need an attitude adjustment.
If I am feeling an internal eye roll, an 'oh no, are we going there again', I am judging something without full knowledge, and certainly without the right. It is humbling to recall how members listened to my pain when I first arrived at AlAnon, without signs of judging or impatience, listening to my realizations of things that most others understand much earlier in life.
This page reminds me of the love I can show others by simply listening and showing basic support and kindness. It meant the world to me, and I can return that to others if I check my attitude and listen to my higher power. Great shares, thank you
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Paul
"...when we try to control others, we lose the ability to manage our own lives." - Paths to Recovery