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 only been at AlAnon for 3-4 weeks, but jumped in w/ both feet online, f2f, forum, and FB. I haved learned so much, and given up on some lies that I beleived.
First, was my too long pursuit to find "someone/ anyone" that would make my AH stop drinking and be a leader in our family. Counselors, his employer, Church leaders, friends, family. I was mad at people who told me, "I can't help him until he wants help." But, you don't understand. He needs to know that you know, and he has to stop and you need to tell him that you are going to stay on him until he does... and so forth and so on. Then I get those well meaning people that would tell me what I needed to do. Just love him, and serve him, and this, that and the other. These are real Christians who meant well, but didn't understand alcoholism. I call my AH a sponge. You can't love enough; he will suck the life out of you with his neediness. And apparently I didn't understant it either as I expected them to cure him, for me.
It was in AlAnon that I learned the 3 Cs (a huge revelation for me!). And all the other things we all know, or are learning. It compliments my Christian knowledge/faith. It doesn't take away or replace. The two work in harmony for me.
To thine own self be true that's all we have .. I am sooo grateful that because of the culture of town I live in that my pastor preaches the 12 steps actually .. and that has been a blessing.
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Faith minus vulnerability and mystery equals extremism. If you've got all the answers, then don't call what you do "faith". - Brene Brown
"Whatever truth you own doesn't own you" - Gary John Bishop
Great awareness Blessed. Alanon gave me the tools to love and take care of myself, so that I would then be able love others. Once I learned how to use the tools and apply the principles of alanon to all aspects of my life , I found I could love unconditionally, give with no thought of getting and have empathy and compassion for all.
The program enhanced my spirituality and my religious practices
I was actively directed beyond my own will to enter the program of the Al-Anon Family Groups with a humble attitude, that of being teachable. I pass that on as often as the invitation presents itself just as you have because of the consequences it has had for us. The first time I came I had the 3w attitude. I want it, I will it, I'll work it forever. That almost killed me. That kept my alcoholic/addict wife under the influence. Thanks for the share. ((((hugs))))
