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.
...this author would have a lot of time in bottles that they didn't enjoy, having spent it in criticism, paranoia, self-criticism rather than useful accomplishment.
To break the cycle of 'mental static', they:
* got out of the regrets of past and fears of future,
* learned to stay in and enjoy the present moment
* prayed, meditated, used the Slogans and reached out to fellow AlAnoners
These adjustments reduced the 'static', made it easier to hear the guidance of their higher power, and left them better to navigate challenging times.
Reminder: This day is all I can work with, all that I need. When I find myself straying forward or back, I can retrieve it to the present.
"The past has flown away. The coming month and year do not exist. Ours only is the present's tiny point." - Mahmud Shaistari ----------------- Staying in the present moment has been one of the most powerful tools in my recovery. By definition, it keeps me way from two dangerous places: past and future, for over neither do I wield any control.
Particularly in stressful times, it clears out critical head space that is much better spent addressing the problem at hand rather than regret of how it came into existence or fretting of what it will lead to in future if unsolved.
Great tool, great reminder, grateful
__________________
Paul
"...when we try to control others, we lose the ability to manage our own lives." - Paths to Recovery
Yes Paul, great reading and share. Thanks for your service. The reminder of keeping my head over my feet helps me often. I spent many days and hours worrying, feeling guilty, being self-critical, for the past and future. ODAT is a special gift of our program for sure. And trying to make it the best day possible, being aware of blessings and gratitude, have surely changed the way I live my life.
Lovely reading and shares Paul, thank you for your service.
I agree with you, Lyne and TT that staying grounded in the present
helps me to stay focused on this day and helps to eliminate projecting,
worrying and anxiety about the past and future. ODAT everyday and
these daily readings are wonderful reminders that help me stay on track.
Grateful Al-Anon/MIP member here!!
__________________
"Forgiveness doesn't excuse bad behavior, but it
does prevent bad behavior from destroying your heart". ~ unknown
Good Morning Everyone. This reading and all the shares has helped me focus on today. Thinking of spiRITUALS, I meditated and a plan came to mind. I will walk everywhere I need to go. We have winter coats that have shrunk over the years (lol) so I'm donating to a clothing bank. It brings me joy knowing someone in need will make use of them. Most importantly, I won't dwell on the past (depresses me sometimes) or the future (anxiety inducing). I will stay in today and count my blessings. Thank you for your ESH and reminder to Keep It Simple.
