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 is about Tradition 3...The writer shares how comforting it is to be able to attend a meeting any place and any time, and expect to find no other affiliation promoted by the group. Members will not try to sell a religion, a treatment program, a therapy, a political platform, or anything else. If a member of the fellowship does discuss any of these, we have the freedom to take what we like and leave the rest.
The second aspect loved by the writer is the sole requirement for membership - a problem of alcoholism in a relative or friend. We don't have to dress, act, feel, speak or work a certain way to belong. We do not have to believe or dis-believe. We are free to be ourselves in this come-as-you-are program.
Reminder: Al-Anon has come to my support -- undiluted and with no strings attached -- when I have needed it. I hope to pass it on in the same spirit.
Thought: "Tradition Three explains two ways in which my Al-Anon friends and I can "Keep it Simple." One is to avoid being diverted from our program by others, and two is to welcome into Al-Anon anyone who is suffering from the effects of another's alcoholism. from Al-Anon's Twelve Steps & Twelve Traditions
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I view the traditions as the fundamental foundation for a healthy group. Each serves a purpose to help us place the program above all else - personalities, social influences, etc. The simple aspect of membership suggests we all are equals no matter what our lives, bottoms, experiences have been. Keeping it simple has helped me greatly as I look to the voice of my HP come from each member. I focus as best I can on what is similar vs. what is different.
At every turn in my recovery, I've been directed back to 'me' and my recovery. It is comforting to know that I can keep my serenity and joy no matter what another is/is not doing. I am free to take what I like and apply it to my world in my way when wanted/needed. I no longer have to be defined by my past or fret the future as I've got a program, support and tools to center me and keep me present.
Happy 4th of July to those who celebrate! We already experienced some fireworks into the night last night. I am off to golf this morning and then may/may not head to the lake with some friends from HS. I may also decide to just hang out with family and relax - the day is young and I always have choices. Make it a great day MIP!
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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
Happy 4th IAH Thanks for your service. I love this TRADITION. Because of the denial that I developed to deal with the insanity in my home , I also felt that i could not fit into alanon when i heard this Tradition I loved the fact that no one checked credentials and i was allowed to stay and learn. the traditions are great principles to live by
Thanks IAH for your service. For myself, I always felt like an oddball who did not fit anywhere. But I have always felt accepted in alanon. I knew I belonged from my very first meeting and I felt welcomed just the way I was. It is a comfort for which I am grateful for, Lyne
