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.
Both AA and Alanon emphasize that their programs are of a spiritual, not religious nature.
This focus allows each member to use Alanon steps and principles in line with their personal religious (or non) perspective, without the unpleasant awkwardness of another member insisting on branding the program with a specific religion's dialogue.
Reminder - Alanon is not affiliated with any other organization, and as such is compatible with any faith or core belief.
"I pray for the wisdom not to involve myself with the personal lives and beliefs of others, and to help them only by means of Alanon principles." - Unknown ------------------------ I am so, so grateful for this tradition and concept in recovery; without it I would have not have gotten past the first day of the journey.
This concept has been crucial to my spiritual growth as it has broadened my range of tolerance toward other belief systems. I know I can be in a room with others holding different beliefs and know that there is likely common ground or mutually shared beliefs, if I am willing to look for them and focus on commonalities and not the differences.
Very grateful for the wisdom of Alanon
__________________
Paul
"...when we try to control others, we lose the ability to manage our own lives." - Paths to Recovery
The quote today resonantes especially well with me - not involving myself in the personal lives and beliefs of others and staying on my own side of the street is something that I have been trying to do more often of late. Focusing on common ground or common goals often offers a path forward when I do not see an easy way.
I hope you make today a great day!
__________________
Skorpi
If you are depressed, you are living in the past. If you are anxious, you are living in the future. If you are at peace, you are living in the present. - Lao Tzu
Good morning, Paul and Skorpi, and thank you so much for sharing on this amazing Al-Anon principle. That our program is for people "of any religious faith or of none" is something I am so grateful for. And yes, I have learned to see what I have in common with people whose spiritual/religious beliefs are different from mine. Coming together to help ourselves and each other with the problems we share, regardless of any outside topics, is a miracle that happens every day in Al-Anon groups. I am adding this to my gratitude list for today.
Thanks Paul for your service and for all above ESH. I as well, feel accepted in this program, and can accept all others in our program, because it is about healing from the effects of alcoholism, and nothing else is relevant. Keep it simple indeedhere it is in practice with all of us. Another grateful member.
