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.
The writer of this reading felt confused about the slogan "Think" until they heard a child recite stop, look, and, listen, as a safety rule. Think is similar to stop, look, and listen, as it gives us time to look at what's going on, and possibly see our role in it. We have time for spiritual guidance, and we can make good decisions about what words to use and appropriate actions. We don't have to jump to react--we can take a moment or two. We can choose to engage in a calm discussion or simply walk away. The reminder says in part: Help me to think before I speak and pray before I act.
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I like this reading. I used to feel I had to immediately defend myself or became so overwhelmed with guilt or shame that I could not even function well. Since being in the program for a while, when I want to rush into action, most of the time I can pause and think. I tell myself to take to time to decide what I want to do, which could even be nothing. I finally know who I am and not everyone will like me, and vice versa. I'm also not so sensitive and carry a QTIP at all times (quit taking it personally). I've also learned that communication is very difficult and many people cannot pause and think--instead they blurt out hurtful things. These are some of the important things I've been able to put in my alanon tool box. Grateful member always. :)
Thanks Lyne for the reading and for your share. I, also find myself responding more than reacting now. When I use the slogan THINK, I'm better able to maintain my serenity. I was called upon to help make a important decision that would greatly affect others. Rather than reacting with projection based upon my own experience, I was better able to stop, look and listen. Thanks to the program, I am more trusting of my hp and myself. That trust has helped to bring emotional balance. This has made it a bit easier to wait. Taking time to process is essential for me. Whether that means walking away or being fully present, using all senses, I'm more capable of an appropriate and measured response if I take a breath and "stop, look, listen." It's important for me to understand what is being said, done or both and how it is affecting me in the moment. I've found that my decision to engage or detach can result in a positive or negative affect to my physical, emotional and spiritual well being and that of others. I also find our slogans Listen and Learn and Keep an Open Mind to be great for communication.
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Surround yourself with people and elements that support your destiny, not just your history.
