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.
We may have learned to be miserable, but we can choose to unlearn it. Though we can't control what happens to us, we can determine how we will interpret and react to what happens. We can moan about the things we don't like, using them as excuses for self-pity ("poor me"), or we can implement the Serenity Prayer, accepting what we can't change and changing what we can.
In the past, we often made ourselves miserable by over-doing things. Now, how often do we continue to invite misery by thinking we ought to be able to control other people? What part do unrealistic expectations play in the creation and continuation of our misery?
When we're hurting, we need to do something about it. A physical hurt may require a doctor; an emotional pain may call for a therapist or friend, and spiritual distress may indicate the need for more prayer and meditation, closer contact with a Higher Power. We can accept responsibility for our feelings, become willing to go to any lengths to get well, and choose not to be miserable.
Responding with misery is not on my list of options for today.
Dang. Thanks Tiger, that's where I am there tonight. Hung up in misery and resentment. I know that this a choice. I try to get out of it. Say the serenity prayer.
today for the first time in years I took the steps necessary to go get a doctor. I will see one right after christmas. I've postponed and postponed and postponed it. I will not compromise my health anymore. I have to say self care is feeling better. I can't wait to take care of myself.
I try to rest much much more than I did. I stopped worrying so much about the A. I cannot control him.
Awesome! Thanks for the post. It is so very true that misery loves company! My so-called best friend has been miserable in her marriage for many years. I was miserable in mine, and decided to do something about it! After my divorce, I met my A. who I am very happy with. My 'best friend' couldn't handle the jealosy over my happiness, and hated him for making me happy! (with friends like that, who needs enemies??) After that, I isolated-BIG TIME!) Now, I am just starting to get back into being sociable again, very cautiously, I might add! The people here at MIP have been the only friends I have had anything to do with for a few years, and have 'been there' for me so many times! Thanks FRIENDS!! Love, TLC
