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 talks about Step 5 where we admit to God, to ourselves and another human being the exact nature of our wrongs. Step 5 is a very intimate look at ourselves and allows us added freedom and clarity to continue moving forward in progress towards a better way of life.
No matter if we are the sharing party or the listening party, we benefit. For the one doing the sharing, the burden of added baggage is often lifted. For the listener, we get to practice unconditional love and support just by listening. Often we also identify similarities and can see our own growth in recovery. Lastly, it becomes apparent often that no matter our differences, we have much in common with others.
Both, the speaker and the listener open up channels for the spiritual aspect of our program. We often hear something that sheds light on our own situation.
Today's Reminder --- When I respond to a request for help with working the Al-Anon program, I help myself as well.
Today's Quote --- "There is no better way to keep our spiritual benefits than by giving them away with love, free of expectations and with no strings attached." - From . . . In All Our Affairs
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As with most things, my first time through the Steps, I made this way more complicated in my brain that what's suggested. I had fear of allowing another to see the real me - faults and all. For as long as I can remember, I either felt less than or greater than others, and very uncomfortable in social settings. Sharing intimate details about myself caused me fear and anxiety as I always thought if someone truly knew me, they would not like me at all and think even less of me.
Instead, I experienced a loving person who did not blink an eye. When done sharing, we prayed together, laughed a bit and went on about our day/lives. It was very freeing and so not a big deal like my mind had projected it to be. This gentle, loving exchange paved the path for me to become a much better listener. When asked to hear the 5th step of another, my experience serves as a lovely reminder how to practice our program with grace, unconditional love and gentleness.
I am grateful for recovery and the freedom of self the steps provide. I almost allowed fear to keep me from being honest, and am grateful I had just enough humility and honesty at the time to do the work as suggested and seek a forward path for spiritual growth.
Happy Friday MIP family - make it a great day!!
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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
All the reminders from the readings daily, allow me to reflect upon where I started on this journey , and where I am now. Admitting my own flaws seemed silly in the beginning. After all, it was my A who needed fixing. I saw myself as the victim of years of abuse as the result of her drinking. Doing all the steps was a humbling experience . Had I been hurt? For sure. But I learned that I needed help as much as my A. The years had broken me down and I didn't like the person I had become. I am stronger for sure now. Looking at myself is an excellent way to grow, and sharing my ESH pushes things forward. I am a grateful member of Alanon, Lyne
Good Morning IAH, ans Lyne Thank you for sharing your thoughts on this powerful Step. I love that you both as well as the reading point out the fact that when we help others we also grow and are helped ourselves.
When I first began working the Steps, I was a little frightened at the thought of actually looking within and owning my negative attitudes and tools . Using the slogans and attending meetings allowed me to release the fears and accept the fact that these negative tools were really hurting me and when i learn to let them go I would discover they were covering up more positive tools that I could use. I found just that and I find I can be happy, joyful and free when I move through the Steps of this Spiritual program.
I am so grateful to alanon for giving me the gift of being able to "Give" freely ,without strings or expectations because this simple attitude enables me to receive in like manner .
I appreciate your service and hope the "Little People" are making you smile. Have a lovely day
Great shares Lyne and Betty......thank you for your ESH! My 'little people' are such a gift.....I can recall when my son told me they were expecting - I was not a happy camper. From my own place, they were not ready, this was a mistake, yadayada......Yet again - God certainly had a different plan as being a grandma is way, way, way more fun and joyful than being a mama!
As they were leaving last night, the oldest was yelling out the window, "Thanks for watching us Grandma; Thanks for playing Grandma...." over and over again.....I am amazed at the mind of children - the 'adult's did not thank me yet he did!
Just a thought/mention of my little people warms my heart and makes me smile! My days and life go so much better when I can just stay out of God's way!!! Enjoy your day - we're having summer like temperatures - going to be a hot one!
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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 sharing that about the little ones" Love the fact that the appreciated your"PLaying Grandma " You are fortunate to be able to appreciate them.
I am off to the beach today as a final summer farewell.
Enjoy the beach Betty! I'm taking it easy and hydrating - early games tonight with 90+ ... self care is necessary! Have a blast!
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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
