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.
In some discussion on a previous post, someone mentioned something really important and I thought wonderful. She said that although my relationship was over with my boyfriend, that it wasn't futile.
I absolutely agree. I do not regret it! I'm sad that it's over and I'm sad that my self esteem suffered. I wish that I hadn't spent so many years in that relationship and of course I still wish that it had worked out. But at the same time, I don't regret it. I still love my ex and wish him well.
I am THANKFUL he came into my life. I think my life will be better for having loved him. I'm even thankful that it was finally so bad that I finally went to Alanon and all of these truths were brought to light. If it wasn't for the really hard times, I don't think I'd be on this path right now to finally really knowing and loving myself. It had to get worse before it could get better. I believe my life will be soo much better as a result of all this. It already is!
Of course it's not all smileys and rainbows. I've been crying and flailing around. It has not been easy, but I do have a good feeling about my progress and hope for the future.
You know sometimes it takes having many thunderclouds and frequent rain storms to really appreciate the rainbows and sunshine. When we can see the good in even the tough stuff that is recovery.
I so get where you are at .. I could have done without the financial devestation of the DUI however in the long run the DUI is the best thing that could have happened this past year. It made real what needed to be addressed and it brought me to alanon where I could begin healing. I have a long way to go, I don't regret the fact I started the journey.
Hugs P :)
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Stepping onto a brand-new path is difficult, but not more difficult than remaining in a situation, which is not nurturing to the whole woman.- Maya Angelo
Someone said at a speaker meeting I went to that thank god they fell in love with an alcoholic.
I can't say I'm exactly glad I encountered the now ex A. I do know it took that much for me to come kicking and screaming to al anon. I also know that I had to surrender to doing it another way.
I spent a lot of time in that relationship, shoring it up, trying to make it work, drowning in alcoholism. I had to lean hard on al anon to make it out. These days I do not feel alone. I have the support, love and care of others to help me through so many situations. I never had that before.
There is a lot of grief for me still in alcoholism. My younger sister is an alcoholic, family members are mired in it. So many significant relationships I have had were affected by it. At the same time the alcoholism of others no longer affects and controls me.
I love it! I embrace that I come from A's, married an A and am better for it! I love who I am and am better for growing through what I have. I am no longer a victim, but a strong survivor! Keep up the great work!
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Sending you love and support on your journey always! BreakingFree
Al-Anon/Alateen Family Group Headquarters, Inc. 800-344-2666
" Pain is inevitable, suffering is optional."
"Serenity is when your body and mind are in the same place."
