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 would have liked to go from miserable straight to happy, but life isn't like that, especially with an alcoholic. Coming to Alanon was a rude awakening for me-I couldn't even fix my spouse, and group members were talking about fixing themselves. I was truly desperate to stop feeling so depressed, obsessed, anxious, etc. I didn't know or like myself anymore. I just started program, writing on the board, reading Courage to Change and ODAT for Alanon, attending meetings, etc. I got a wonderful sponsor, and in time and a whole lot of work, I do feel much better. I've been in program four years. Did I feel better right away? Heck no. Do I still have to be involved in recovery work? Absolutely. But for me, it's worth it. There is no quick fix. But I have gone from absolute misery to having many happy days. I see the world and my spouse differently. And I like myself and deserve to be happy, no matter what's going on around me, Lyne
I am like Serenity - action, action, action. I heard early on that I can't think my way to right actions but I can act my way to right thinking....this made perfect sense to me as I'm a thinker, an over-thinker, an over-analyzing person and often I thought on my backside and when I had solved other's issues in my head, I was still on my backside - and nothing changed.
When I changed up my waking actions, my attitude followed. I typically start my day with HP, coffee, reading and some prayer/meditation. I do program things each day and reach for literature or my phone list when my stinking thinking/negative thoughts attempt to surface. I hang with healthy people and attend healthy meetings. I avoid dominant personalities as they trigger me and work hard to find what is working well in my life.
Before recovery, my mind seemed to focus on what was wrong and I didn't even see that I truly was blessed in spite of the disease. So - I too see the world and my part in it differently since embracing Al-Anon, and it all comes about by setting aside my way and practicing the program way.
(((Hugs))) - recovery does truly work if we work it!
__________________
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
It helps me to spend time in sunshine each day, too. Paying attention to my sleep (dark dark room, no noise, reserve time to sleep) also adds to my happiness.
I keep coming here and reading. I attend meetings.
Thank you. I needed somebody new in my head to turn my attitude into being more grateful. I overthink myself into fear. And it gets me into trouble. Thanks for helping me see what I needed to hear
