4/19/22 ODAT - We Can Learn Alanon Principles from Anyone
Enigmatic said
Apr 19, 2022
This page may seem dated to some, as it shares the concern that may arise when the other Alanon members of the group are different, perhaps of different gender. How can those different from me know what I'm going through, be of help?
It turns out that working the Steps and principles of Alanon and the experience, strength and hope that is shared is what brings guidance and relief, regardless of the variety or makeup of the people.
Differences in the group or attendees actually help by giving us exposure to seeing Alanon work in different ways and challenges than we might otherwise. No matter who we are, Alanon has answers for us. -------------------- I really appreciate this page and important Alanon lesson. Many have strong feelings on this topic, feeling that help or insight must come from those who are the same or have similar life orientations.
In my experience this is often the opposite: when I have an open mind and am focused on the message and lesson rather than the messenger, I can learn just as much in dissimilar learning environments, often more, as I'm exposed to new perspectives.
In Alanon, the guidance comes from the principles in the Steps, Traditions and Concepts, with the experience, strength and hope shared by fellow members helping to demonstrate the program in action.
We can find help and answers anywhere Alanon is spoken. So grateful for the Program
Lyne said
Apr 19, 2022
Thanks Paul for your service and share. What I keep in mind is that we are all in alanon to recover from the effects of alcoholism. Whatever differences we may have don't matter as we are all in the same boat looking for the same results. :)
DM2021 said
Apr 19, 2022
Thank you Paul for your service and to you and Lyne for both your ESH.
My first thought was, I don't think that I ever questioned anyone due to gender, etc. as to whether what they shared
or thought was not helpful because, like Lyne said, we are "in the same boat looking for the same results"!
This page may seem dated to some, as it shares the concern that may arise when the other Alanon members of the group are different, perhaps of different gender. How can those different from me know what I'm going through, be of help?
It turns out that working the Steps and principles of Alanon and the experience, strength and hope that is shared is what brings guidance and relief, regardless of the variety or makeup of the people.
Differences in the group or attendees actually help by giving us exposure to seeing Alanon work in different ways and challenges than we might otherwise. No matter who we are, Alanon has answers for us.
--------------------
I really appreciate this page and important Alanon lesson. Many have strong feelings on this topic, feeling that help or insight must come from those who are the same or have similar life orientations.
In my experience this is often the opposite: when I have an open mind and am focused on the message and lesson rather than the messenger, I can learn just as much in dissimilar learning environments, often more, as I'm exposed to new perspectives.
In Alanon, the guidance comes from the principles in the Steps, Traditions and Concepts, with the experience, strength and hope shared by fellow members helping to demonstrate the program in action.
We can find help and answers anywhere Alanon is spoken. So grateful for the Program
Thank you Paul for your service and to you and Lyne for both your ESH.

My first thought was, I don't think that I ever questioned anyone due to gender, etc. as to whether what they shared
or thought was not helpful because, like Lyne said, we are "in the same boat looking for the same results"!
Grateful member as well!!