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.
Good morning MIP! Today's reading shares many reasons why one would/does continue coming to Al-Anon. No matter the length of time in recovery, most find that we need continual spiritual help to live with or having lived with an alcoholic.
The list is noteworthy -
- To maintain a rational perspective.
- To nurture a closer relationship with a Higher Power.
- Warm and loving members are desired as a part of life.
- Steps, Traditions and Concepts serve to put structure and goals in our lives.
- Al-Anon is the light that helps us find our way in the dark.
- Continued service to self and others.
Love that the reading suggests that long-time members are also imperfect, and will disappoint newcomers, simply because all fall down at some point.
Reminder: The amount of time I've spent in Al-Anon is less important than what I am doing with that time today.
Quote: "I don't resort to Al-Anon only to learn to live with the active drinking problems. It is my way of life, an increasingly rich and rewarding life, as I learn to use the program in depth." from One Day at a Time in Al-Anon
Many of the 'issues' I had when I arrived at Al-Anon were present before the disease blew-up in my life/family/home. I didn't know this 'then' - it's part of my discovery in working the program and steps. The disease just magnified my 'issues' which were used in vain to battle the disease in others I love.
I keep coming back as that's what was suggested to me. Recovery has brought me to a place of inner peace I never (remember) experienced before in my life. Relying on a power greater than me, and exploring my own motives, feelings, thoughts, etc. to grow and change has been the best gift I've given myself. Since arriving, my 'worst days' are those where I take back my will or let other things take priority over self-care and/or my recovery tasks.
For me, a daily reprieve from the disease and insanity it brings is directly related to the effort I am willing to apply to my recovery. I was told early on three basic things - Trust God, Clean House & Help Others. I am grateful that I had the courage to come and I have the willingness to keep coming back!
Happy Thursday all - make it a lovely day...golf this morning and softball this evening - my favorite kind of day!!!
__________________
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
Goood Morning IAH Thank you for sharing on this important topic. I know that i have e been in alanon for over 30 years and would never consider not attending meetings. The support and spiritual enlightenment I receive from one meeting helps me to move through the week with courage and serenity
Even after all these years , at times when I feel challenged, i sometimes attempt to revert to my old destructive tools to cope. So pleased that I have developed health constructive tools to live by. Thank you HP and alanon
Thank you IAH for your service and both shares. I love that reading, and especially the Reminder. It's what we do with the time and tools from alanon that counts. It reminds me of a quote from Abraham Lincoln that says it's not the years in our life but the life in our years. So very true and important.
I also have found an inner peace I never had, even on bad days. I bounce back quickly from defeat and have a different perspective on life. It is a way to live regardless of alcoholism. Truly a blessing to be in program, Lyne
IAH and everyone, thank you for your shares this morning. I agree, the Al-Anon way of life is truly great, and it helps me every day. Meetings are a humbling and uplifting experience.
