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 a look at Tradition One (Our common welfare should come first; personal progress for the greatest number depends upon unity). The writer describes how new meaning was given to tradition one for him/her when another member shared the idea that the interpretation of unity could include attending meetings even when things are good, not only when in crisis. The writer saw that attendance at meetings with others was an act of unity and a commitment to personal growth.
Initially the writer felt the unity of purpose when others at a meeting would accept all irrational thinking, unconditionally and without judgement. Over time unity of purpose began to mean attending meetings not only for what is personally needed, but what might be offered to others. The thought for the day is a reminder that in our recovery, we also become examples to others who may be struggling.
As I was reading today, I thought about how when I finally got myself to my first meetings, I felt a mixture of relief and exhaustion. There was a different way of life that was possible. I couldnt offer anything to anyone else- at that time I really didnt know how to even take care of myself. But consistency in meetings, readings, working with a sponsor and reflections has helped me get stronger. All of us who are here know one another in the familiarity of our lives. Every time I have gone to a meeting, read a page, corresponded with my sponsor, I have learned something. I agree with the quotation from When I Got Busy, I Got Better (p.38):
Reaching out...gave me a new perspective on our common welfare. I am grateful to be learning and getting stronger along with all of you:)
Good morning, Mary and thank you for your service to this group and your share!
Debb - thank you for your ESH... I have to admit, with the things going on in our country, I have been thinking a lot about what "unity" could look like for the US. Only time will tell.
When I first came to the rooms of Al-Anon, I was physically and emotionally/spiritually exhausted. The phrase, "Wrung out like a wet dish towel" was an apt description. I was like that in some form for quite a few years. I am thankful I have the MIP Family that I can still rely on, day in, day out!
Grateful you all are part of my healing!
&
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"The wolf that thrives, is the one you feed." - Cherokee legend
"Hello, sun in my face. Hello you who made the morning and spread it over the fields... Watch, now, how I start the day in happiness, in kindness." Mary Oliver
Happy Sunday MIP. Thank you Mary for your service and the daily. Thank you all for your shares & ESH. Unity is such a broad term that can mean different things to different folks. This disease often brings about selfishness and self-serving behavior - in the A and also in us Al-Anon members. For me to assume I know what unity does/does not mean for anyone else is an unhealthy way to think/process. This applies to everything else as well - I have to constantly remind myself that I do not know best for anyone else and my way is not the only or best way!
I stay active in recovery simply because that's what was suggested. I don't believe anyone has more/less to offer, especially based on length of time in program. I focus on simply trying to be a part of the solution one day at a time, no matter what I am facing. I was also guided to go to meetings when I feel I need one and when I feel I don't need one. I've discovered that a routine, whatever it may include, works really well for me to be forever reminded I am affected by this disease, yet there is solutions and better ways.
It's cold, cold - cold - here today. I'm without plans and that's perfectly OK. Just cooked 'special orders' - hot ham/swiss for my AH & an omelette for me. It's a good thing I enjoy cooking - since we locked down in March of 2020, we've ordered pizza twice and I've cooked daily/twice since. I will admit that it's been fun googling new recipes to try - some are fantastic and others - one and done...Very grateful that we are not picky eaters...
Enjoy your day all - find and keep your joy!
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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
I am grateful we are all united here for a common purpose. We all may have our own perspectives and our own personal paths to take but we all ultimately just wanna have peace and serenity.
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