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.
I decided to participate in a two day event to advance my physical, spiritual and emotional wellness. I went out and bought some required things on the last day to register. Even after I bought the stuff, I rationalized that I could use the stuff whether I decided to go or not. How practical of me lol. It was a bit of an expensive weekend but you know what? I was ready and the benefits were going to far outweigh the cost. I deserve to give myself good things. I felt if I backed away from this, my energy was not going to change for the better. At least not unless another opportunity came along very soon. Now I feel ready to try even more unchartered territory. There's no passing or failing in Alanon right? We just have a lifetime of learning experiences ahead of us. Acceptance opens so many doors.
So yes, I took a leap of faith this weekend. I came home feeling very proud of my courage to take a chance, jump feet first into unfamiliar territory, accept of where I am, risk to be known by new people and to know them. Yep, full participation. Years ago, I would not have even considered a challenge that would put my health and well-being in the spotlight. What? Everybody is going to look at me? I don't think so! I would have felt I'd have to be perfect. And for me "perfect" is a buzzword for a lifetime of procrastinating and lamenting "if only." I spent a lot of time comparing and dispairing myself to others using terms like I wish I had the courage to do that or Oh I could never do that! Today, I'm more in a place of Why not and You're not terminally unique, you can give it a try as well as any other person can. Alanon and my hp have taught me to live and let live and I'm very grateful for the gift of loving myself as I am.
It was exciting to meet so many new people this weekend with a common interest, all ages, at all stages and listen and learn from them. It was nice be asked for feedback too. No competition, no judgement just people encouraging one another, gaining more physical, spiritual and emotional endurance - experiencing joy in the moment. All of us teachers and all of students just like in Alanon.
Thank you for letting me share with you. TT
__________________
Surround yourself with people and elements that support your destiny, not just your history.
Oh TT - sounds absolutely marvelous! I am so glad that you did this and applaud you stepping out of your comfort zone! I'm beginning to think I need to do a bit more - you gave me courage to dream bigger - thanks for the fantastic share!
__________________
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 for sharing TT, it is inspiring to hear about someone else's successful journey. I have that bad habit of over analyzing what people will think about me. It can be paralyzing. Thanks again for sharing! I will keep your words in my mind next time I doubt myself.
Thank you for your inspiring share. I needed to read this this morning. I almost went to an early morning gym class because of your share lol but alas I stayed in bed but I did do my readings and got up earlier than usual and started my day off smoother thanks to you.
I really liked what you said about 'advance my physical, spiritual and emotional wellness' I love that and I definatley need to do more of this, its a program of action after all and lately I havent been that active in the action.
Also, 'I deserve to give myself good things. I felt if I backed away from this, my energy was not going to change for the better.' A change of energy, this really spoke to me, it kind of suggests if we keep doing the same things we get the same things. I want and need to change things and change my energy by changing my habits. I think the winter gives me an excuse to hibernate and embrace and justify my laziness at times but now the spring is here, the daffodils are out and its time I changed my energy.
