Hi y'all... I am back from the northern city. Going there was my goal-set for the year- present for myself. This time i did not isolate- but stayed with friends- in a warm comfortable space. One of my long term goals is to be part of a process- that places ACA D-F in a comfortable spot- between Alanon, AA and other 12 step groups... a 20 year plan. I was able to attend two meetings of this group. Still in it's infancy in NZ. The Saturday, I arrived early, was given the key- and was asked to chair the meeting. The group had recent members- a sure sign in growth- both in numbers and in content.

The course I did was okay... I met a person there who knew my step-brother and family. We did one of the exercises together and she unloaded on me. Tears on my knees. I responded by weeping too. Years and years of Alanon have given empathy- and tears is sometimes an appropriate response. Made me feel that I belonged and was meant to be there.

I am thinking of going back and doing another course in May. I know, for sure- most times it is not helpful to try and work out- what alcoholism and addiction is all about. Yep- true, keeping it simple is the best strategy. Although I am a farm boy- I have always done short courses and seminars since I was 20. It got me through a real rough patch when most of my friends were heroin users. I could slip away and engage with society. Not always easy. Some solutions for social problems were not very practical!

But i am interested in addressing anxiety and trauma in practical ways. Simply attending meetings and meeting people is a really good start! Identifying and creating trusting bonds. For me- it was finding out that I was a worthwhile person- and moving out from there...

...it is Sunday morning here- and we had two grand-daughters sleeping over. No sports today because there is cold rain outside.

Just sharing- and writing a letter... is a good relaxing pastime. Living in the moment- one day at a time...  ...

(((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((( Y'all )))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

Step 10... for a long time I was 'a gusher". Once i found my own voice- of course i had to create boundaries.

                I take time out to search my own heart. I do not need to be too tough on myself. Nor too gentle, either.

Step 11.

Step 12. Simply by attending a meeting we begin to give back. I really like to see younger members come forward. I want Alanon to keep growing and reaching out- and I can take part in this.

I hope to be truly humble and to be an example of what Alanon can achieve. Thanks.