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.
This reading states that Steps 10, 11, & 12 are called "maintenance Steps," but the writer did not want to "stagnate." All the Steps are challenging, and especially when life circumstances change. It is easy to revert back to former ways of thinking.
I must admit that the first time I did the Steps with my sponsor, I was scared she would not want to keep working with me--she would see what a basket case I really was. But she helped me see my own strength along with things to improve. Several years later I did them again with my same sponsor, and WOW, it was a fantastic experience without fear. Unfortunately she has died, but I do believe at some point I will do them again. There is nothing to lose and everything to gain.
The Reminder: With the help of the Steps, I need never be stuck again.
Quote: Be not afraid of growing slowly, be afraid only of standing still.
Thank you for the C2C reading because it reminds me that maintenance is an on going process that literally never ends when it come to dealing with an active alcoholic/recovering alcoholic.
Standing still, for me sounds like a scary proposition!!!
Debb
-- Edited by DFG on Wednesday 23rd of July 2025 03:07:39 PM
Yes, standing still is not helpful when exposed to alcoholics. We may love them and/or choose to stay with them, but I have found it difficult to accept the moodiness, sudden onset of anger for no apparent reason, irrational behavior and thinking, abuse at times, etc. My spouse is now two years in AA, and it is better, but it's a slow go and perhaps I expect too much after 14 years in alanon. It's still a struggle for me. Probably always will be. Good to see you on MIP. Lyne
