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.
Todays reading is about our slogan Let It Begin With Me. The writer interprets it as the message of al-anon we may carry to others in need, and that if asked we might share our experience in the program but that does not include an expectation of a response or how it may be received. When I first came to al-anon and began to feel the difference in my life I was ready to bring every member of my family in... certain this is exactly what all of them needed! It took me a few beats to realize that minding other peoples business is a lot different than offering my own experience IF asked about it!
When I think about this slogan I think of the it as any change I feel I need in my life. I dont need to look for other people or circumstances to make a change for me-with the strength of my HP, I can let it begin with me.
Great reminder Mary I know when I entered program i wanted "IT' to begin with everyone else as I believed that I was "PERFECT" and that everyone else was at fault. Working the Steps with a sponsor, and learning to keep the focus on myself I soon discovered ow wrong I was. . Seeing how I hurt myself in many interactions helped me to" let it begin with me" and stop pointing fingers at others. I certainly have enough work to do on myself. :)
Have a lovely Sunday and thank you for your service.
Thank you Mary for the daily and your service. Thank you for both for your shares and ESH. I too wanted it to begin with 'them' vs. 'me'. I too felt I was not the fault or even part of the problem. It took some time using the program as designed to see my part, own my part and want to change to a better version of me.
I am better able to respond vs. react which lines up well with 'Let it Begin with Me'. I am also able to be of service to others with no expectations. I am grateful that the program gave me back myself and my power and I can build me up vs. relying on others to do so. Happy Sunday all - make it a great day!
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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
