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, 3/8, describes a vivid picture of how many of us were, upon arrival in alanon: discouraged mind, tormenting ourself, thinking in circles, feeling like there was no air, and feeling tangled and confused. Nothing seemed straight or clear. Many of us were in a constant state of hysteria and apprehension. The author says to have found a way out of that kind of thinking in itself was a miracle, and that miracle was alanon. By relating to others, one could find focus. And by giving thought and compassion to others, the writer then found some peace of mind.
Reminder: It is the sharing of experience and hope that makes our alanon contacts so important to us. Every time we read something about how alanon works, every time we attend a meeting or talk with a fellow member...we grow in serenity and strength.
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Yep, that was me for surea total emotional train wreck about to happen, and no brakes to stop it. The ESH of our fellow program members, was invaluable. The ability to listen to others and take the focus off my own whirlwind is rather important. The compassion Im able to feel towards others, no matter what age or difference, all helps me. Its truly a remarkable program.
Hysteria and Apprehension - that was me when I first arrived in Al-Anon. One of the most impactful things for me in my first meetings was seeing people who were laughing, enjoying themselves, calm, who ALSO shared ESH about whatever I was curranty tormenting myself about. I thought, if they can find serenity inside this chaos, then so can I, and that kept me coming back, seeking support, seeking understanding, seeking acceptance. I'm so glad I did, and as I continue my journey, I'm so glad to be able to welcome others as they start their own journeys.
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Skorpi
If you are depressed, you are living in the past. If you are anxious, you are living in the future. If you are at peace, you are living in the present. - Lao Tzu
Lyne, thanks for your service and ESP Skorpi. Relating to others has given me focus. I am drained of energy these days. I can summon strength and stamina to do things for my AH in a snap but exhausted just "thinking" about doing things for me. I do read lots of AlAnon material and listen to speakers. At least I am feeding my soul. I am blown away by how each member "tells my story". Thanks for being here. At least now I look to the light. I have spent too many years in the depths of darkness and despair. Have a great day.
Thank you Lyne for your service. It is the ESH of others that keep me coming back each morning. It is my touchstone for the day!
Grateful.
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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
Happy Monday to one and all. Thank you Lyne for your service and the daily. Thank you all for the shares & ESH. I was a train-wreck when I arrived, racing mind and a perpetual feeling of reaction. I had a whole range of emotions yet couldn't distinguish one from another. My 'go-to' for most of my life was anger, which was truly just a defense mechanism used as a form of self-protection and self-preservation.
There are not enough words in my vocabulary to express my profound gratitude for all who came before me and showed me how I mattered, how Al-anon works and tolerated my insanity. The grace and patience shown to me helped me find hope in this program and a never-ending stream of members were willing to help when I needed it.
Daily practice of this program helps keep me centered and part of that practice for me includes MIP, talking to others, readings, etc. I'm happy to know that any effort is better than no effort at all, it's OK to make mistakes, and nobody expects me to do this or 'life' perfectly. I'm grateful to be a part of something so lovely vs. feeling a part from (my BR state most of the time).
Glad I keep coming back - when I work it, it works well! (((Hugs)))
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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
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