I was listening to some people talking at the meeting last night and the question came up about how Al-Anons work their program. I think that it's about the same way that the AA's work their program, through a proactive approach. For me, working the Al-Anon program means going to meetings and conventions, reading literature, keeping in touch with my HP and my sponsor, meditation, doing a written and electronic journal, chairing meetings, taking food to meetings, making calls to those in trouble, and helping others get to meetings. I'm not at the point where I can sponsor anyone but am looking forward to doing 12 step service work.
The things mentioned above are all outward action steps. There is another dimension to working the program and that is through internal changes. These are changes in attitude and recognition of a Higher Power to share some of the load. My attitude adjustment means that I no longer take on more things than I want to. I break my life into small pieces that I can handle and also enjoy. And I've learned how to relax which is a wonderful benefit of the program. I have learned that I don't have to get everything done today. Things can wait. I no longer make lists of things to do. In my previous chaotic life, I would keep busy and not focus on what was going on inside of me. Today, I work at focusing inward with less emphasis on focusing outward. The result is that I've got feelings of self-worth, gratitude and a lot of positive energy.
What wonderful insight you have Syd. I often wish that other 'earthlings' could find a program of recovery like we have! I strive for spiritual prgress today, and on sharing the joy I have found.
ReplyDeletelove and HUGS to you
rarxbSince my slip I have encouraged my sweetheart to re-visit the family groups of Al-Anon. I don't want to harp on him, he must do it on his own. I am gonna send him your blog addy . . .
ReplyDeleteI think it is wonderful that you are working your program and enjoy reading about your internal growth. I hear alcoholics talk all the time, it is great to get the internal growth from the other side, those that deal with all of our crazy Sha-nan-a-gins :) When the time is right, your sponsorship will be awesome! For now your foundation is important, I can see this.
You have so much to offer, it is only a matter of time before you are sponsoring.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad all the work is paying off for you. You definitely sound terrific. My sponsor and I were talking today about how worth it is to go through all the self-examination and what you call outward action. She called what we gain freedom. I liked that.
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