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.
Just an update from me..it helps to put it down in writing too...So I'm here at my friends apartment wandering like a lost soul. Her, her daughter and her grandchildren are a great distraction from my own mind as they consistently force me to keep going through the motions of the day, as does my son. We've been to yard sales, customer appreciation day, touring the town, the playground, the park etc. And the 2 year old makes me laugh and smile. I'm now an honorary auntie. It's when the day settles into night, and I've put my son to bed that my mind races through everything. I've not slept soundly yet, so I often need a nap later in the day. I've not applied for any other jobs yet, although I know I'm an idiot for not doing so. I just keep thinking I'm going back before the school year starts so why bother? I need to constantly re-examine every detail and think about the future. So in an effort to ignore my heart, I'm going to update my resume, print off some copies and start trekking around on Monday. My brain insists that I absolutely am not going back, I just have to convince the rest of me :/ which is easier said than done. I'm in a personal war with no end in sight yet...but I've got some strong troops by my side :) and they aren't letting me sink into despair despite my efforts to do so...
Funny, all day I have been saying to myself, "just keep breathing." I filed a protective order against my husband last Friday and had to leave town for work yesterday. I've never stayed in a hotel alone, and this is a new job so I don't really know anyone. I feel like I am going to have a panic attack any minute. I just have to keep telling myself to calm down, it will be alright. Have confidence in yourself!!! I know it is hard with all you are going through. My AH kept telling me that I was overestimating my skills and no one would hire me (too old), but I found a great job and the people are so nice. I just need to focus on doing the right things and let the chips fall where they may.
I used to have panic attacks, too. A mentor of mine suggested I ask my HP to make my new experience a positive one for me, trust that that request would be heard and heeded. It worked as a counterbalance to fearful thoughts and my HP did make new experiences positive for me.
Changing is very difficult and needs lots of faith, courage and practice. I did a lot of self affirmations "You're alright and are going to remain that way" and slow serenity prayers. Panic attacks and near panic attacks served to tell me that I had fallen off the Al-Anon wagon and needed to get back on. Sitting with Al-Anon members who had or were going thru the same thing was so very helpful and supportive...just like the program says. I did that and knowing that I wasn't alone in my particular pain gave me tons of home and then tons of new alternative choices. I love the program and what it does when I do it. You can keep swimming or get back in the boat or on the shore. I guess if you like treading water...swimming fills he bill. Keep coming back (((((hugs)))))
I like your new slogan:) It reminds me of the alanon slogan of "Just keep showing up, one day at a time and do not project". Right now the future is uncertain so keep on using your tools, and trust HP will guide your Steps.