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 in C2C is about Tradition Eleven, which suggests Al-Anon's public relations policy is described as being based on attraction rather than promotion. The writer suggests that their first responsibility in Al-Anon is to learn to keep the focus on self and to do the best possible to live this program one day at a time.
When we walk the walk, there is really no need to talk the talk. If we are not demonstrating recovery in our life as best we can, talking about the program may be nothing more than a substitute for living it.
The writer finds that when a meeting is needed most is often when they are most compelled to urge others to attend.
Today's reminder --- Before I start telling people about Al-Anon, I might consider posing this question to myself: "Did they ask?"
Today's quote --- "Example is not the main thing in influencing others. It's the only thing." - Albert Schweitzer
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Finding recovery in my life was a great gift. My serenity resulting from working this program as best I can is a non-quantifiable blessing. In recovery, I've come to cherish my sanity and peace and truly am willing to go to any length to keep it. For me, this means sharing the message when asked and then letting go. My HP doesn't want me to do anything more than be a walking example of doing the next right thing as best I can.
Before recovery, I felt the need to 'help' others by working hard to fix 'them'. It truly never dawned on me that this was my own selfish view of controlling, managing, etc. others to get my way! I lived with the constant thinking of If, Then or When, Then - rarely if ever - present in this day.
As part of my morning prayers, I always include peace for those in recovery and peace for those in need of recovery. This tradition is included in both sides of our program, and like all others, exists for a reason. I was told in the others rooms that we carry the message, not the alcoholic. It applies on this side for me too!
Happy Friday to one and all - may you make your day as best as possible. It's darn, darn cold this morning in my neck of the woods - wind chill close to zero!!! Working hard to stay warm! (((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
Hi IAH Thanks for your service. I do love the quote from Albert Schweitzer .
Talking the talk and not walking the walk is how I operated before program-- Do as I say and not as I do, was the principle that I lived by. Being "other" directed and knowing what everyone else should do kept me very busy and with no time to focus on myself. Working this program,especially the Steps and examining my motives changed all that. I now live by my own principles and keep the focus on myself.
Have a great day.
