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.
The beginning of character building comes with doing things we dislike. There's always "an easier, softer way," but we hurt ourselves when we take it. Self-respect is built on deeds, not intentions.
The best of intentions won't get us to work on time, clean our homes, teach us a trade, strengthen our bodies, or fill our pockets. Excuses are unconvincing, especially to our inner selves.
Instead, we must look at what needs to be done, take a deep breath, and plunge right in. It's harder, but oh, the rewards! Pride, a sense of mastery, the serene knowledge that we control our own lives and do not run at the first sign of difficulty. We can face the future calmly, confident we can handle anything that comes our way. Once we are master of our own character, we are masters of all the future holds. Today, let me not turn away from difficult tasks..., but remember the rewards that will bemine if I peresevere. S.B. -P Houston
July 1, Help for Helpers, Hazelden
{comment: I couldn't just PLUNGE right in! It's taken me over two years of filling myself up spiritually, nutritionally, physical resting, catching up on sleep deprivation to even begin to apply this reading to my life. Extreme patience with myself and my progress)
I know that this is probably not what you had in mind when you posted this, but I was so inspired to do something for myself...I went to the gym for a 45 minute workout. It gave me time to think and really relieve some stress.
Working out in a gym helps me too. I don't know about you, but when I work out at a gym all I am really thinking about is working out and who I'm working out with, which for me is stress-free and relaxing. How about you?
Yes, even construction workers! Gets our minds off our troubles Went through a fast food restaurant drive-up. Well, the dry wall guy was on the ladder, almost in front of the pickup window! View of only his torso and below ---dressed in all white with nice belt on, tucked in shirt, not too shabby of work clothes, I must say! Nice distinguished graying beard, great smile. That's all I could see, but that was enough. Had to turn my eyes back to the steering wheel--the view was just too good. When I looked back inside, I gather the view might have been good from the backside, too--The lady worker inside looked a little flustered also. Moments of temporary fantasy---makes one forget reality. But to remember, it's just that, fantasy.
I don't check out the guys. I see whos using the machines I use so I can be able to workout and when I wanna bench press I make sure an adult is about to spot me.
Self-respect is built on deeds, not intentions.
Went through a fast food restaurant drive-up. Well, the dry wall guy was on the ladder, almost in front of the pickup window! View of only his torso and below ---dressed in all white with nice belt on, tucked in shirt, not too shabby of work clothes, I must say! Nice distinguished graying beard, great smile. That's all I could see, but that was enough. Had to turn my eyes back to the steering wheel--the view was just too good. When I looked back inside, I gather the view might have been good from the backside, too--The lady worker inside looked a little flustered also. Moments of temporary fantasy---makes one forget reality. But to remember, it's just that, fantasy.