((((((((((((((Roomies))))))))))))))))))

It's getting to the end of another year, and I think we all reflect on the past year, and how our lives have changed In that time. Sometimes for the better or sometimes for the worst.

My Life has had a dramatic U turn. Last Christmas I was suffering Depression (again). I was soooo fed up of my life. I hated who I had become, the way I spoke to people, the way I blamed them, resented them for all the wrongs In my life. I was In that place where you don't think your going to ever get free from. I saw the tunnel, but no light at the end of it.

Then someone said to me Lynn, why don't you try Al-Anon, I laughed at him, I said why??? I don't have a problem. (lol) He then laughed at me. This was someone who knows me, a close friend working the 12 steps In AA. So he offered to take me to a meeting. I went to a meeting, but I went ALONE, I figured If I'm going to start this I have to do I on my own.

That was In January of this year. I then invested In a pc (lol), never knew how to work one. I'm so very GRATEFUL I did, because It brought me to Mip. This has also brought a big change In my life.

I have met some wonderful people, I can listen to, talk to, anytime, someone Is always here for me. I share my experience with people. I am glad I can pass on things to people especially younger members. I have realised what It has done to me, to be known as a member of a fellowship.

My whole look on life has changed. My moods are now going In the same direction (lol). I am not HAPPY, but I'm living In contentment "just for today". I have gotton myself a sponsor, who has been my wake up call to life. She Is getting to understand me, and now knows exactly how to help me. I am looking forward to working my steps with her, gaining some of her faith and trust, and becoming a better person thanks to her. She told me we work together for each other, well that sounds good to me. I always worked myself, was afraid to ask for help.

I have also began my service work as an Op, I am loving It. Okay It's had a few moments (lol), but I am learning from them. I have learned to (shut my mouth), have patience with people, If they don't agree with what I do, I can ask them why and take It from there.

I am seeing changes within myself and I am happy with them. I am NOT the centre of everyones universe (lol). I have some people who will always dissagree with me. And that's alright. I cannot change them. But I can pray for the strength to get by them. I know we are all suffering In this room, some more than others. I try to be good with my words to people, but we are NOT perfect and YES sometimes, we say things In all Innocence, and It goes out of proportion. But Hey, "what Others think Of Me, Is None Of My Business" Right.

I'm starting a new Step going Into the new year, I'm scared to begin It, I know It will throw things In my face that I thought I had gotten past. But I have to be strong and get by those defects. I had heard of AA long ago, never knew what it was about, I started to learn from my friend, about the steps. I listened but never really understood them. I do now, the ones I have done. Getting to Al-Anon has got to be the best thing In my life. It Is allowing me to look at my past, but not in anger. Look at my present, but with hope. And to let the future take care of It's self. I am not responsible for anyone, but myself and I have to remind myself of that everyday.

I wanted to post this today, to share with you, that Al-Anon does work, If your prepared to work It. You have to suffer pain, lots of It. But when you come out the other side you feel like a new person. And all the past hurts are lifted from your shoulders.

Wishing you all a Very Merry Christmas, And A Good New Year.

I know some people will not have a lovely, happy, cheerful time during the holidays, through the affects of anothers drinking. I would like to say to them. My thoughts and Prayers are with you all, I have been there, I know the suffering It causes. I would remind you to come here, no matter how small your worry Is, come and get It out, Don't suffer ALONE, you do not have to any longer. Talk with someone, get some strength, help you get through the holidays.

Take Care everyone, Thinking of you All at this Special Time.

Love From The Heart

Ally