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.
In today's reading, the author shares that at first, we might focus on applying Al-Anon principles to only one family situation, but there are many ways we can keep the program with us wherever we go.
Some members chose to carry literature in a lunch box, pocket, or purse so we can touch base with the program in the moment we realize that we are losing perspective. We can excuse ourselves before a situation escalates and collect ourselves outside or in the restroom. We can make an Al-Anon call, or look for a nearby meeting. Speaking with our Higher Power is something undetectable to outside eyes, but can bring perspective.
Today's Reminder: It is good to know about the tools of the Al-Anon program, but it is better to put them to use. Today I will remember that the program is available to me at any time of the day or night.
Today's Quote: "...The quality of our lives continues to improve as we apply the Al-Anon program not only to crisis situations but to our everyday lives." ...In All Our Affairs
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One of the things I like best about the MIP group, and have from the start, is that I Can take the program with me (on my phone) wherever I go, and I can always stop by to make a post or gain some perspective. If I am struggling with something, I can post about it or I can search for ESH from past posts. And, since we are the group we are, I found that when I was in crisis there was almost always someone up in some part of the world. It made me feel less alone with my problems.
When I think back on the beginning of my program work, I noticed that practicing the Al-Anon principles was MUCH easier at work than at home, so I started practicing them at work and got comfortable with them there. Once I felt comfortable with them, I tried them at home with the family situation that brought me to Al-Anon. I was able to use my principles and tools more easily and confidently thanks to the practice I'd gotten using them in less stressful situations.
I will be traveling for the holiday by car (well, 2 cars) with my wife, 2 foster kids, and 4 dogs. I'm confident that I will have plenty of opportunity to take the program with me this week.
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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
Good morning, Skorpi and thank you for this share. I too am grateful for being able to reach out to Al-Anon wherever and whenever I am.
Just a few years ago, when I was living with active alcoholism and its effects, and had recently discovered MIP, I used to commute to and from my job every day by train. As soon as I got seated on the train, I would pull up MIP on my phone and read the posts throughout my commute. It was a huge help in getting through that difficult time. I am grateful for that, and for being able to find Al-Anon meetings wherever I go.
And I so remember when even the worst day at work was better than a day at home. I definitely found Al-Anon principles helpful at work too.
Best wishes for safety and serenity on your holiday trip!
Thanks Skorpi for your service and the great ESH. What I find magnificent about MIP is not only you can take it wherever you go, but you can be in touch with MIP anytime, night or day. It's a 24 hour a day program, from any location. What more could I ask for?!
