Good Afternoon All. Earlier I waded in on a post without properly introducing myself. My intent was not to offend, but share how applying Alanon priciples have enriched my life. I entered AA recovery 25 years ago when my then hubby kicked me to the curb. Smart man. He cut his losses quickly. I was in and out for years as my professional life skyrocketed until I crashed and burned. Single, homeless, and childless, I managed to rebuild. I did get it together long enough to become engaged to a pothead. My closet drinking destroyed me and I abandoned the relationship under the guise of sparing him grief. Eventually I met my current hubby in AA. I suspected he had relapsed in our second year of marriage. It turns out he stopped taking his meds for a serious mental disorder. His AA sponsor didn't feel he was truly sober. It was a challenge because his symptoms mimicked symptoms of hard core drug use. Thankfully (read: worn out) I confided in my doctor who suggested seeking psychiatric care for my partner. That was a treat. After many frightening psychotic episodes he admitted he had kept his illness secret. Alanon enables me to navigate the intricacies of being married to a dry Alcoholic who resents AA, and has slowly accepted meds are a must . (He felt ashamed and stigmatized.) At least now he adheres to treatment (medication and therapy) after some rough patches. Had I not been introduced to Alanon, I believe I would be drinking or dead (suicide ideation was a go to solution for me.) Many times I considered checking MYSELF in to the psych ward. I am grateful to members in both programs that were not afraid to hammer on the principles and drove me into action. Once the dust settled, Covid came calling. Crimony! Again, the tools of Alanon enable me take it as it comes. Having experience in riches to rags, with God's grace, I was able adjust to slimmer means. My greatest asset is inner peace and joy. This board has helped me stay grounded especially now that face to face meetings are unavailable. I appreciate everyone's shares. There are no words to express my gratitude for having you all in my path. Blessings from "We the North".

Welcome Toronto!!!

Welcome Toronto!

Welcome (officially) to MIP Toronto. Glad you're here - keep coming back!

I do believe that alanon and AA are two different peograms for a reason While certainly some people welcome having some of the principles of the program drilled out to them some of us do not. I am one of them. This is not a #one size fits all# program. This is ny experience strength and hope. What works for you will not necessarily work for me There has to be some space and grace in there for everyone. This is a place for everyone. The person who founded this group, John, eventially died from the disease of addiction. I feel despite that tragedy that this board is a gift to everyone. While the disease of addction certainly destroyed his lungs he made a remarkable contribution to other people's recovery. Having an online group has been very heloful to me. Nevertheless I.do get red flags cropping up.when anyone states this is the way #it is# .at any time. That might be #their# way but I get to choose what is my way. No one else does. We all have to navigate these very difficult issues. My way is not the only highway and I do not appreciate it when any one stipulates their way is the only way to go. Maresie

Welcome Toronto!