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.
In my years in Al-Anon, I have used many slogans, but my most favorite ones are:
"How important is it?" and "First things first"
"How important is it?" makes me slow down long enough to ask myself if whatever is bothering me worth giving away my serenity?
Usually the answer is no. My sponsor once asked me when I was in a panic about getting things done if I needed to get all these things done today?
I immediately calmed down and said no.
"First things first" says it's ok for me to take care of myself and do as much as I can in one twenty-four hour period without losing my serenity or making myself sick.
These slogans also tell me I have choices. I can choose to hang on to my serenity and apply program in moments of stress, or I can give my serenity away.
I choose the latter. I like my serenity...alot!!!
Love you all,
SenoraBob
__________________
Higher Power doesn't always wrap presents in pretty paper.
Along with the alanon slogans, I have picked up some new ones that are similiar but stated differently. When I was explaining to my dad the alanon program he shared with me slogans he learned in the Navy during World War II. One is "What will be will be". I use slogan with my mom alot now too while she struggles with another horrible disease, alzheimers :( We both will say alot, "Does it really matter?" when she or I can't remember things. I also remind her to be kind to herself which is a new concept for her and her generation. She gets so angry at herself when she can't remember where she puts something which happens to her all the time now :( Thanks for this post. IT reminded me that I can also use alanon slogans with my parents for other situations in life. cdb xoxoxoxoxo
I have been living by "how important is it" for awhile now. With my disability, I tire easily, so it seems that I lie around a lot. Why I am actually do is prioritizing my energy. My boys and work come first. I need to work for my mental health and to get out of the house. If the house is dusty, is it more important than a scout trip or project? Is it more important than watching a wrestling meet? I think not. I also choose my battles with the boys this way as well. Was it a long lasting defect of character on their part or were they a boy? My life is much calmer since I brought this into my life and don't don't miss anything important by overdoing.
Josey
__________________
Julianne - It's best to move on. You cannot look back in anger in life. It's too short
