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.
All I can say is that people need to LISTEN & LEARN! I am so grateful that I am becoming a better listener but today I just need to be heard. I am even unable to type what I am thinking! I just want to say that everyone should remember the reason for this season no matter what you believe. This time of year is to remember to give of yourself. For me, it means cherishing the family that I have left--especially my DAD who may not make it much longer than the end of the year. Pardon me, but I feel that my hands are tied & am very upset that the rest of my family is going to spend his last days w/ him while I feel like manuer because I can't even give him a HUG! Am I envious? I think not. I am unable to travel 900 miles to see them & relieve some of the burden they seem to be carrying. I feel so bad but I know that my HP has MY best interest at heart. I am recovering from a hopeless state of mind & body! I am a survivor w/ loads of resiliency but I can't create a miracle only God can & I think I will let HIM.
Have you ever written your dad a letter, expressing how you feel about him? I know you can't be with him this season, but you could send him a heartfelt letter.
My dad lives 800 miles away. He's 84 and has had health issues that scared me. He isn't much of a talker. But he says he enjoys my letters and cards that I send him. (Our phone conversations are usually about 5 to 10 minutes because it's challenging to keep him talking.) So written communication works well.
As far as others not listening ---- well ----- The Serenity Prayer works well for me. (Accept the things I cannot change)
Be an example for others; that's the best you can do.
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You have to go through the darkness to truly know the light. Lama Surya Das
Resentment is like taking poison & waiting for the other person to die. Malachy McCourt
GailMichelle: thanks for the tips! I am doing almost all of those things already! I am so grateful that people like you remind of what it is that is important. My dad & I talk but he is mostly deaf so you can imagine how the conversations go. The serenity prayer is on the way!
