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.
The reading for Monday, 2/24, talks about the benefits of taking a personal inventory. We cant fix anything if we dont see what needs repair. We can take Step 4 without personal judgement. We can gain healing power from taking the Steps so pain from our past does not have to recur.
Reminder: When I cant find a solution to a problem, when I have nagging doubts, fears,or frustrations, when I feel lost or confused, a searching and fearless moral inventory of myself can make a tremendous difference. Whenever I work the Steps, I tell my Higher Power that I am willing to heal, to find a solution, to feel better. The energy that would have been dumped into worry, tears, and obsession can be turned into positive action.
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The first time I did the steps, I was so afraid of what I would find. The second time I did the steps, I approached them with the confidence that I would receive so much help. And that was true. My sponsor had me do Step 4 several times, when I felt stuck and/or desperate because too much focus was on my A. Step 4 demanded I look at myself. Its not so scary anymore, because I know I grow and change when I allow myself to look at the negatives, and see what can become positive. Thats what this program is all aboutpositive change, growth, repair, and healing. Lyne
Lyne - thank you for your service, the daily and your ESH/share! I too had fear over finding defects within me, I believe because I had practiced perfection for so long, I viewed 'defects' in a negative light. I am grateful for the shift in thinking recovery has given me as I do not view defects as 'bad' any longer - just as an area with 'room for improvement'.
I had big time obsession, worry and fear when I arrived. I no longer have the same levels today, and truly can find peace/serenity/joy in small ways! I feel awestruck almost each and every day at how blessed it is that I have a God of my understanding who truly wants me to be happy, joyous and free. That keeps me open and willing to do the next right thing and focus on learning, growing, changing in a positive way.
We have rain here today and cooler temperatures - a great day to do some home projects before Tacos. Love and light 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
Thank you Lyne for your service and share... thank you Iamhere! What a great nudge for me today!!
The first time I did my inventory, it was because I "had to." I too had practiced perfection for so long, that I felt I just couldn't have any serious defects... certainly nothing that contributed to this madness! LOL! I really do chuckle at this now. So much I didn't know - or even want to know!
The second and third times, I embraced needing to delve into myself. I approached the task with more hubris... much better results.
Lately, I have been feeling unsettled. Several reasons. This thread on today of all days, is prodding me to revisit Step 4.
Enjoy your Monday, MIP Family!
My son is meeting me after work and we are going to dinner. Despite the fears that linger, I am focused on celebrating me today, and I am looking forward to the special meal!
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"The wolf that thrives, is the one you feed." - Cherokee legend
"Hello, sun in my face. Hello you who made the morning and spread it over the fields... Watch, now, how I start the day in happiness, in kindness." Mary Oliver
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