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.
So today we are celebrating my daughter's 5th birthday. I had to miss my meeting today because of it. I really could use some uplifting thoughts because I am feeling so resentful towards members of my AH family. I will go and just keep my mouth shut and steer clear of people and things that will trigger old habits from me. Now I got pissed because it's my daughter's birthday party and I feel this way. We can't even have the party at our house because my SIL stole my pain pills from the house and my AH never wants her to step foot in our house again. I always have a smile on my face, but for some reason I am finding it super hard after the last 2 weeks. Lots of work I still need to do, but today is gonna be hard
This is indeed a special day for your daughter, dad and yourself. Being powerless over people has some fantastic advantages.. It gave me permission to completely focus on myself , my plans, my desires and carry them out without worry of others.
It is your day--- Enjoy it. Go to the party house, take pictures, smile at your daughter and make a good memory for your album
When the anger and resentment creep,in remember that they are simply " ANTS "( Automatic Negative Thoughts). and instead of entertaining them -now it the time to just pull out your alanon "BUG" spray of slogans and use them Here are a few
How important is it, Keep it Simple, Let Go to Let God, This too shall pass, I will consider that, Serenity prayer
I so know what you are feeling. I had been there for so many years when my kids were younger. My husbands family was alcoholic and they would bring their coolers full of beer to our children's birthday parties and drink with my husband. I chaulked it up to the culture in ND, which is accurate, but I stuffed my feelings about it. I did not have the tools of al anon at the time. When I look back I see how crazy we all were. It is so hard putting on a happy face when you are sizzling inside. A great big virtual hug for you.
Sending you lots of positive vibes, hugs and prayers for a very special day. I do hope that you find yourself enjoying it as the good moments unfold and simply leaving the rest.
Well, it's over. I sure do worry alot about unnecessary things. It was fun. I was able to "act as if" put a smile on and enjoy myself. There is nothing like the smile of a child and watching them be so innocent and knowing she felt loved and happy that all of her family was there for her on a special day. It's actually good to know that even though some people don't see eye to eye, we can still let the kids be kids and I can use my "tools" to be happy myself. Thanks everyone!!!
