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This has never happened before, because I never had alanon before... however, where I work, I am the front desk receptionist for a busy newspaper. A news reporter came down and had a phone conversation right in front of me. She asked the person if they had been drinking. She then told them they could see their son today for a few hours as long as they are not drunk or drinking. I was really trying not to listen or be involved in anyway, I was detached from it. Doing my work and answering the phones... She was right in front of me, so I did hear stuff I didn't want to. When she hung up she said to me "that was probably an odd conversation huh?" I just shrugged. She said "well my brother and his wife are both alcoholics so I have custody of their young son. I don't know what to do anymore" I thought for a second and said, "have you tried alanon?" She said "do you know anything about it?" I said "its changed my life and made me a much better person" She said "wow, I had no idea, I will have to look into that" I told her she could google it and find meetings in her area. Then I left it at that. Is that too much? She asked what its like, I told her that there are 12 steps like AA, and that when I began to work the steps, I began to feel better. I didn't want to go into it too much, I am at work after all. So... is what I said ok, too much? Thanks!
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You yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection. -Buddha
The past has flown away. The coming month and year do not exsist. Ours only is the present's tiny point. -Mahmud Shabistanri
I don't think it's too much - you planted the seed. Now the person knows that you're a member and can ask questions if she has any - and if she is interested, she can seek out a meeting.
Thanks White Rabbit.... I just wasn't sure how much to say or if I said too much... and I had to consider the thought that I was telling someone I work with that I am in Alanon... She did sound very interested and said that she would look it up. THanks for the reassurance... :)
__________________
You yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection. -Buddha
The past has flown away. The coming month and year do not exsist. Ours only is the present's tiny point. -Mahmud Shabistanri
This is where I think 'some things happen for a reason' come into play......you were there to overhear her conversation and direct her towards alanon! You planted the seed and now it's her job to take it from there....because of that seed, she will most likely end up on a different path...which will most likely help the child she is caring for. :)
Great job! I'm glad you mentioned Al-Anon to her. As others have said, the seed's been planted, at least. And you did it the right way - you mentioned it when you were asked. You didn't just butt in and tell her she should try Al-Anon without her asking your advice. :)
FYI, I've seen a couple co-workers at my place drop in to an Al-Anon meeting, or I've seen them at open AA meetings. I've always made sure to let them know I keep their anonymity sacred.
(((sunflowergirl))) You get another perfect form me. You did what you felt was the right thing to do, planted the seed, now hopefully the seed will grow. I think HP had you to in the right place at the right time. Sometimes he uses us to send his messages.
You did great , not too much you let her know there is help for her and now its up to her to follow thru , if she should ask again give her one of our 20 question pamphlets that will answer her questions .. I answered yes to 19 of the questions thought I had passed hehe but at the bottom it says ( if you answered yes to any of these questions Al-Anon may be able to help ) duh .
I agree you gave away what you had...not what you didn't have and that is how I was taught also. You also didn't try to promote it. I'm pleased to hear how this happened and how you handled it. lol Taking notes. (((hugs)))
Perfect! Sharing Al-Anon can be life changing. By suggesting and not pushing or rambling on by being a "salesperson" you were able to share this. I hope she is able to attend a meeting. What you did takes courage, especially in the workplace. Congratulations on taking a risk!
