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 have now been a member of Alanon for 1 year. I am so grateful I found this amazing programme. It has given me back a few things that I lost as a direct result of living with alcoholism, I would like to share with you.
1. My ability to see the truth instead of choosing to live in a world of denial. This denial kept me locked into an isolated world with my ex ah. I am also willing to see more and more of my own truth, my good and bad parts. I am able to take responsibility for my own bad behaviour, I try hard to avoid justification.
2. My self care, love, respect. Before I put everyone else in my life first, I was the perfect martyr/victim and I truly believed I had no choice, I thought I deserved it and soldiered on through lots of piles of guilt. I had no idea that I could forgive myself and dump that guilt. Also, I have stopped smoking for 6 months now. Amazing, next on my list is my weight.
3. Hope. Before I was so depressed and wrapped up in one drama to the next. I thought there was no way out. Now I know that nothing lasts for ever, even my dark days pass. I also have the power to change things for the better. To make choices that are good for me even when they are hated by my loved ones.
4. Freedom from other peoples lifes. I was arrogant and believed I knew best and I would fix it. Now, I realise that I am not God, I cant see the whole picture and I truly dont know what is best for anyone. So, I am more willing to keep my hands off other people's lifes. I can detach with love and I am so grateful for that. It has made such a difference in my life.
5. A Power greater than myself. I feel this everyday and I am getting better at seeing this power and handing things over. This power comes from my willingness, my f2f meetings, my literature and steps, slogans and you people here.
I am still a work in progress, I am still human and I am still making mistakes everyday and all of the above takes conscious effort and I have and will throw it all away from time to time but I am learning not to panic when I relapse, it could be I am in need of more understanding or my recovery will get to a deeper level. Thank you for listening.x
grateful that you shared that and have been an example of it works when you work it. That's amazing growth which I didn't think was possible when I first got here. HP has other ideas which allows us to do the work. ((((hugs))))
So glad to share this experience with you!! Sending lots of love and support your way!!
Hugs P :)
__________________
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
Not only is that a beautiful share, it's a perfect example to anyone wondering what they may find in this program once they decide what they've been doing just isn't working.
Thank you LC! That was a wonderful share. Congrats on the 1 year. I had my 1 year back in January and I still feel like such a newbie at times, but I remember it's all 'progress not perfection'.
Without a doubt, you are a Miracle In Progress! The changes that have taken place in and around you are not merely the power of example, but the example of the power of this program! Congrats on your one year marker! Keep up the work, just when you think it couldn't possibly get any better, it does!
__________________
" And what did we gain? A new life, with purpose, meaning and constant progress, and all the contentment and fulfillment that comes from such growth."
Thank you. I will be a life long member because I love this program, I will always slip up and go back to my old ways and I know i will never be an expert but i have tools now that will help me as long as I work it.x
Congratulations El-Cee! We are all so very proud of you - you've come a long way! I wish joyful and peaceful days for you as you keep on keepin' on :) xxoo
