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 discusses how we grow in recovery and learn the value of having a sponsor. So many of us arrive starving to be heard, and we find in meetings that we can talk freely about that which has been pent up inside. We share and others nod with understanding. They share and mention how they relate. We are finally heard and often even appreciated by others who have also been there.
Often, this attention is so nice, we overdo it. We fear to let go of this great chance to share so freely! Yet we come to understand that the group suffers when any member dominates the sharing and come to understand how the well-being of the group must always come first. The program traditions are invaluable, and as grow in recovery, we come to understand how valuable a sponsor can be to keep the sanity and sanctity of the group.
Today's Reminder --- My needs are important. Al-Anon helps me to find appropriate ways in which to meet them. I will take good care of myself today.
Today's Quote --- from Sponsorship --- What's It All About ---- ". . . Very personal details . . . are better left to a sponsor who can lend a consistent ear and keep a confidence -- someone who knows all about you and accepts you as you are.
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I am one who processes best by writing about it, talking about it and praying about it. I feel very fortunate that it was my sponsor who suggested I attend Al-Anon meetings. We already had a relationship and it was a gift to be able to share in meetings as well as with my sponsor. I have always been very private and love that we are asked to keep the focus on self.
For me, when I am troubled and uncertain what's the next right thing, I go to my sponsor. I can talk freely, openly and without any restraints. Our meeting also has the option for one-on-one meetings, and that is offered for anyone in crisis who needs to talk at length. Lastly, I have a phone list that I will also use when I need to talk things out.
What I realize now in looking back is that asking for help was hard for me. I felt I was an adult and needed to solve my issues. I was uncomfortable laying out the reality of my life to just anyone. I'd spent a lifetime telling others that life was good when in fact it was a disaster most days.
Today I better understand the value of trusting and relying on others. I have felt the calm come over me when I've released my burdens and am so grateful that others are willing to actively listen without judgement and offer suggestions based on recovery. I've had enough advice thrown my way to last 2+ lifetimes - for me, I learn way better knowing I have options and suggestions from others who truly understand the way this disease affects us.
Happy Friday to one and all - I am going to finish packing and then I am off to the lake for the weekend with my gal pals from high school! 37 years post graduation and we're still going strong....boy when I say that it sure suggests we are old. Yet, when we are together, there is an element of youth that keeps us laughing, playing and just enjoying each other! The standard uniform for our weekend includes comfortable tee or sweatshirt + stretch pants....ha.ha.ha.ha.
Make it a great day and (((hugs))) to my MIP family!
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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
Good Morning IAH I love the quote that reinforces the idea that "Our needs are important". I know that prior to al- anon I made myself and my needs invisible, took care of others and thought that that was the best way to care for myself.
Determined to embrace the principles of program,I did get a sponsor and shared at meetings. Much to my surprise, I found that having a trusted person that I could go to with my concerns, who would not give advise, or gossip was a tremendous asset and I am so grateful to program for such a gift.
Have a lovely day
I started out occasionally coming to the board. I thought I could fix my A and myself. LOL! I could fix neither. So I started listening on the board and hearing about sponsors and F2F meetings. I wasn't going to do either of those. With my limited understanding of the steps, I came to believe that doing them with a sponsor would help me immensely. I began F2F meeting just about the same time I found a wonderful sponsor. They both helped me SO much! The sum total of alanon has helped me change and grow as a person. I am grateful for all the contact I have in all the different ways. Progress not perfection. A grateful member of alanon am I, Lyne
