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.
The ODAT reading for July 9 speaks about self-pity and how destructive this can be to our minds and hearts. It suggests that we may be envying those who have more material things like a house etc or many could be resentful of others because we are bored an hate the monotony in our lives not having enough relief. We also can be critical of others and then have unrealistic expectations.
The reading suggests that self pity comes from concentrating on the negative aspects of life. in order to be happy and appreciate our lives, we must find a way to make life more interesting and take the view of the pleasant things that happen each day. We need to settle for less than our fancy dreams and see the reality and beauty in the world and day. Living in the moment and in the day is a great way to see the good in each moment.
The reading suggest that those who have a great deal should be grateful but often grumble and complain, however others who are , living desperate even tragic lives somehow find a way to be cheerful and manage to find some joy in what they do.
I love the quote ; "to expect life to be tailored to our specifications is to invite frustration."
Thank you Betty for your service, the daily and your ESH. When I read this, I recalled the 'comparing my insides to another's outsides'....it just serves no good purpose for me in recovery.
I am at peace with what I have and I have what I need. I am grateful and that's an awesome place to be! The work we are asked to consider in recovery pays a much better dividend than any other investment I've made in my life - and it is the gift that keeps on giving.
Have a lovely Sunday too Betty! I'm off to pick up a new member, head to a meeting, break for a small bit, pick up my son and then all head to sober softball. It's a hot one here today - working to stay hydrated. I have ball again tonight too - it's a great way for me to spend a God-given Sunday!
(((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
Although I am not thrilled at the fact that I will be working till I drop, I CAN be grateful that #1, I have nice clients..#2, I am in great shape and CAN work #3, somehow I scratch and get my needs met, even if I have to be "creative" which is a lot....But I get it done....Live is not easy...many times hardship gets me down,but it does not rule me nor keep me down...I FIND ways to have fun...I LOOK for fun adn joy and I manage to find it, even if it means hanging out with me, myself and I...
thank you Betty for this wonderful reminder.........HUGS
