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 page addresses the loneliness that may come from feeling that no one truly understands what we are going through. We are reminded, however, that we can free ourselves from this at any time by refocusing our mind on blessings, rather than the real or perceived deficits in our life.
Nothing has the power to deny us the joy that is available to us, we only need the will to direct our thoughts to more positive sources and perspectives. -------------------- There are times when actions must be taken, or facts considered, that are tied to circumstances that may be undesirable or challenging. Even then, I have the option to attach resentment to them or simply view them as a task that must be completed.
The former ensures negative thoughts throughout the task and longer time spent disentangling and trying to refocus and reenergize. The latter allows me to feel accomplishment when completed and freedom to then attend to things I enjoy.
Before I found AlAnon, my mood was often at the whim of the actions of others. I felt justified in my bad moods when I felt the blame could be laid on others, that it was inevitable.
Today, I know that I am responsible for what I focus on and the level of peace I have, regardless of the challenges I face. I am so grateful for the wisdom and tools of the program that make this choice possible
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Paul
"...when we try to control others, we lose the ability to manage our own lives." - Paths to Recovery
Good morning MIP....We had enough rain yesterday that I am opting out of golf again - not into mud golfing much! Thank you Paul for the daily and your service. Thank you both for your shares & ESH. BR (Before Recovery), I would vent, complain, over-share and throw blame/shame to anyone who would listen. Of course, most had opinions and gave directions, which were usually given with expectations. *SIGH* - It was all exhausting. As I got closer to my bottom, I stop sharing as I felt I was 'playing the same tape over and over again, and my approach had driven saner folks away'.
In Al-Anon, I found others who truly understood, actively listened and did not advise, direct or judge.
Instead, they shared their ESH and more about the program/tools available to me to be/do/feel/act different. I know today that I have true unconditional support from others who love me when I am baffled or struggling. I know today that my attitude and outlook directly affect my serenity and my day and I have a choice how I address and approach life. There are days when showering and brushing my teeth seem out of reach and yet, if I just put one foot in front of the other, staying in the present moment, I do realize I am OK and all will be OK.
There have been many, many moments in recovery where I have literally stopped what I am doing and declared in my mind or out loud that I am starting my day over....just the thought of that gift helps me adjust my attitude and redirect my energy. I am a grateful member of Al-Anon and truly marvel at all the tools we can use to change the things we can.
Happy Tuesday all - 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
Happy Tuesday, MIP Family!
Thank you Paul for your service and the great reminder!
I come here daily (post most times) b/c I know I am supported, understood, validated, and perhaps most of all... I get timely reminders... like today!
I have found that my attitude improves when I start my day off with what I am grateful for (blessings)... so now I am faithful in doing this. It works for me!
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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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