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 the power in all of us coming together to share experience, strength and hope. The writer describes each: Experience- when we share our individual stories with one another, we are also sharing that no one is alone in this. Living in alcoholism can be so isolating, understanding that we are not alone is crucial. Strength- we support one another in our shares. No judgement, no conditions; we share our stories and what we receive in return is support. Hope- when we feel lowest we may be inspired by someone who has found serenity, or sobered by someone who is dealing with a situation more dire. The fellowship sustains our hope.
Todays reading brought me back to my first meetings. Sometimes I thought I didnt belong because my situation didnt seem as bad as others. Sometimes I would hear from a member who in spite of her life with an active alcoholic found serenity and grace. Overall what I felt was: this is the place where people will know me.
The thought for the day reminds us: recovery cannot occur in isolation. This site was the perfect place fo me, especially in the beginning. I couldnt fathom speaking to a roomful of people (in person). Over time, through readings, online meetings, writing with a sponsor, I was able to go in person and all of my fears fell away with the support of people who were there for all the same reasons I was.
May I also add, understand me, believe my shared experiences & support me in my weakness - without judgement.
Thank you Mary for your service and today's reading. When I finally came to the realization that nothing I would do, or could do would change my loved one's addiction, Al-Anon was the place I could go to unload my thoughts and grievances, and people would actually listen and BELIEVE me. This was so important for me, especially when my spouse changed his DOC to alcohol. The gas-lighting was so bad, that I thought I was the "bad" one... that I had caused this to happen... that I was never supportive enough... kind enough... understanding enough. You get the picture - but of course you do! In time, this place also helped me to take the focus off of my spouse and I began to heal ME. It wasn't easy. It was also filled with self-doubt and a lot of anger that I had to find a way to manage - both for my mental health and to ease my teen's turbulent life (at the time).
I am forever grateful for Al-Anon, but more specifically, this site... the people here.
I hope you all enjoy your Sunday, and find whatever JOY floats your boats today! The freezing storm has passed, and I will be out in the garden! Tomato planting time!
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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
I came here a few minutes ago feeling really down and depressed. After a really good weekend with our grandkids,it all changed within half an hour of them going home. It felt so depressing to go back to the reality of life.
But,after logging in and reading shares I instantly felt less alone and less depressed.
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