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.
Today's reading in the ODAT is a great reminder to every person who has been in program for some time. It points out that when we are attending an Al-Anon meeting we should always keep in mind that the newcomer in the room is feeling, lost, confused, alone and bewildered when they first enter a meeting. So that we should cultivate an awareness of those around us, clarify our thoughts and share my experience, strength and hope in a positive fashion that inspires hope.
It also points out that Al-Anon therapy is an interchange and the more help. I give, the more I get.
The quote is from Proverbs; "the mouth of the just bring it forth. The wisdom; the lips of the righteous know what is acceptable."
I know when I first meditated on this reading, I was perplexed, as I thought it pointed out that I should be taking care of others when I shared, rather than taking care of myself and sharing with honesty.
The more I thought on the subject I realized that it is, first of all, speaking about sharing at a meeting and not one on one with a sponsor. I know I have always heard that at meetings I should bring my message of hope and I bring my mess to a sponsor . I then realized this is what the reading is attempting to convey. I then saw that for years I went with my first reaction to a topic or situation and did not take the time to let it in and process the information before responding What a difference this makes. It changed my entire feelings and understanding of the reading and made me grow a little more.
Betty, I did some research, just because I wanted to understand better what you were expressing ... and I think I understand that the words we speak to others who need our help are considered to be the fruits of a great harvest. The Harvest being the total of our lives and the words we speak to others. This is what I have learned and humbly submit ....
Proverbs 25:11 talks about a word fitly spoken.
A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver. 12As an earring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold, so is a wise reprover upon an obedient ear.
This is a word that is formed to fit the occasion, a word that meets the need of the occasion.
It is word that is formed to bring reproof that works, to bring about change that will bear fruit.
Job remarked in Job 6:25, How forcible are right words!
Right words are acceptable words.
Acceptable words are words that the speaker is pleased with.
They are not words which bring regret for having been spoken.
They are words which accomplish the need.
They are words which persuade, words spoken with compassion and sympathy, words spoken in meekness and humility.
The greatest example of right words is the scripture itself for all of Gods words are right words.
Study of Gods words will bring about the just man who bringeth forth wisdom that is suited to the need.
__________________
"Forgiveness doesn't excuse bad behavior, but it
does prevent bad behavior from destroying your heart". ~ unknown
