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.
The C2C reading for October 24 speaks about recovery in Al-Anon being compared to the peeling of an onion. It points out that we peal a layer away at a time often shedding a few tears as we do.
Recovery always makes us think of the bark of the tree. The tree bark is necessary to protect the tree. As the tree grows- the barkpeals back slowly of his own accord when it is no longer needed. If it is pulled back prematurely , the tree is wounded and becomes vulnerable to infection and fungus and insects.
Like the tree, we too can become wounded if we are prematurely stripped of our defenses. We have spent a lifetime developing these defenses, to protect us from the world.
In Al-Anon we are encouraged to grow at our own pacee, and as we do some of our defenses and ideas are shed along the way. Today's reminder suggests that we have an innate ability to heal and grow. We do not have to forced change. All we have to do is show up and be willing.
Quote is from,In all Our Affairs "we all have our own answers within ourselves and can find them with the help of our Al-Anon program and HP".
I do believe that this page summarizes the entire philosophy of Al-Anon. We do not give advice because each member must heal enough to find their s own solutions that are within.
So, so true - the peeling back and shedding tears. I am feeling wounded today as I've been taking things personally that aren't mine to own.
Today I feel more like the wounded bark instead of the onion...I know I need to back up, regroup with my program/sponsor - just wanted to share that I agree - this reading truly sums up my experience with Al-Anon. I am grateful that I have the tools necessary to regroup when my emotions/this disease get me down!!
(((Hugs))) to all - hope your Saturday has been good!!
__________________
Practice the PAUSE...Pause before judging. Pause before assuming. Pause before accusing. Pause whenever you are about to react harshly and you will avoid doing and saying things you will later regret. ~~~~ Lori Deschene
... growing, learning and changing at my own