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 reminds us that we came to Al-Anon to get something for ourselves, but had no idea how that was intimately involved with giving. Our willingness to help others, our sharing and giving of ourselves benefits US in the long run.
TODAY'S REMINDER: The more I give of myself and the more generously I open my heart and my mind to others, the more growth I will experience as I deal with my problems.
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Well friends, I am still very much in the getting mode! I went for a walk last week with a woman from my local Al-Anon group. And, sure, I shared with her, but I was so interested in who she was and what she had to tell me. Other friends in the program and many of you strike me the same way.
I get so much from others. It takes some courage to put my thoughts out there, and humility to listen intently for wisdom in living (you know, cause I think, What's so hard about that?) and grace, I guess to just yield the floor in some instances. But wow, I find myself on the receiving end way more often than not.
When I have been in the program longer, I hope I will be able to do the same for others. I hear long-time members gently helping others along, giving strength and hope, giving service and even in some cases, practical, physical help - I hope that's me one day.
Thanks Bbrave for your service today. At times I do need a lot, but I'm always ready and willing to help others. After 36 yrs in the field of mental health, some of my giving is second nature. But I think I had this tendency early on. Helping/giving to someone else seems to strengthen me and gives me good self-esteem. That's not the reason I do it, but it's a wonderful fringe benefit. I try to choose behaviors that bring me self-respect and self-esteem. I try to treat others as I wish to be treated. There are still many lessons for me to learn from our program. I'm a work in progress. Grateful.
