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.
I went to go get the Mr. Unavailable book that was recommended on the board but there weren't any copies at the book store. I did go to the author's blog called Baggage Reclaim and it addresses the many of the same issues we are dealing with here. It focuses a lot on learning to love oneself. As I mentioned, I couldn't find that book, but I did find one called "Is it Love or is it Addiction?" It is incredible! "Addictive love is an attempt to gain control of our lives, and in so doing, we go out of control by giving personal power to someone or something other than ourselves." I cannot believe how much I see myself in this book. Author, Brenda Schaeffer, even goes into our altered brain functioning as a result of trauma and feeding our addiction. I feel like she helps put words to the obsessiveness that really does become an unconscious choice. I think this book is quite complimentary to my early recovery skills and helping me understand that my unhealthy ideas about love stem from the lack of unconditional love I felt in childhood. I urge others to check out this read. Oh, and my Higher Power was definitely with me today when I got the book. The girl who was helping me had the same name as my ex's new girlfriend!!! I was disgusted, but had to smile at the same time. Yes. Message received.
Chaya
-- Edited by Chaya on Sunday 1st of July 2012 09:25:38 PM
Sounds like a good read, don't forget to check your local library that is where I first checked out a lot of Al-anon books before I bought or was given them. I also bought many by just typing in Al-non and codependency at amazon online. Thanks for the recommendation. Sending you love and support!
__________________
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."
Thank for taking the time to give us an overview of the book and the insights that you developed as a result.
Alanon is the only recovery program that helped me to address my issues of giving my power away, isolating, pretending all was well and denial. These symptoms are very much like that of the addict.
I am reading everything I can get my hands on right now: paths to recovery, from survival to recovery, one day at a time, and courage to change. The combination of reading, going to meetings, and implementing the new behaviors I am learning are all helping so much. I am still totally having those crazy moments but I'm letting them out here, at meetings, or with safe people. Love you guys, Chaya
Hi Chaya, thanks for sharing the book. I am reading a book called "The Dance of Anger" and it's been very helpful to me when it comes to looking at how my AH and I argue and the 'dance' that we do. I've also been reading the AA Big Book, many Al Anon books, and also I tend to read books on letting go of resentments and anger.
