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.
Todays reading is about how we might seek answers, changes, self worth, from people and/or situations outside of ourselves. The writer describes coming to al-anon looking for answers. The writer looked to parents, friends, partners etc: looking everywhere except Higher Power and self. After some time in program, the writer realizes there was some self sabotage in looking on the outside for all of the answers which were within. Some of the tools the program provided: not forcing our own will- we mature. Making amends- we develop our self esteem.
This reading reminds me of one of the first meetings I went to in person. One of the people who spoke told some horrific situations of living with an alcoholic spouse. What struck me was- this person did not sound angry, defeated or resentful. She was strong, funny and seemed- content! I remember thinking, I want to be around this person and others who have gained strength and support from each other while working on their own selves. Each of us needs to do our own work, and then it is very helpful to share with one another.
The quotation from Al-Anon Sharings from Adult Children (p.6): With help we can develop a new sense of living, as we become, one day at a time, the people we want to be.