Tuesday, October 9, 2007

Life is peaceful these days

I was thinking last night after my home group meeting about the remarkable changes that have happened to me and others through the program of Al-Anon. It's a peaceful feeling on most days. I don't feel all edgy, empty and anxious. I actually look forward to my time alone which is something that I never liked before.

I have learned to temper my expectations and by doing that I am pleasantly surprised when things go well. The program has taught me a lot about acceptance of others and not to react with anger when people differ from me in how they live their lives.

I've also learned to accept myself a lot better. I realize that being perfect isn't an option. I don't need to make comparisons with others on their relationships.

I've learned that it's possible to forgive myself for past transgressions. And that mistakes made in the present can be recognized quickly and amends made before resentments build.

These things aren't novel to Al-Anon or AA but they are novel for me. Seeing others change is like looking in a mirror. I can also see how I've changed for the better.

8 comments:

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  2. Interesting post Syd.
    My first born son and I were just talking this morning about personal growth and how important it is to train our hearts and mind to stay open to learning and new possibilities.He and I have noticed a new calm within ourselves.And actaully I have seen transitions all around me!
    this post being a nice one of them
    I like the pic too :)

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  3. Sounds like you remain teachable, & for that you've learned & grown alot.

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  4. now thats a GREAT pic. What a cool pic.
    yeah and great post. sounds like you are really reaping the rewards of all that effort you put in. Thats how it SHOULD feel.
    My fave old timer used to say. "The only thing you give up is your MISERY', and its so ! true. Life is just so much easier with these guiding principles in place. It feels like you are cheating sometimes doesn't it? I really thought an authentic life was a suffering life. what a shock to discover that god instead wants us to be happy joyous and free. who'd have thought eh?

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  5. We are a damn lucky bunch of people!

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  6. it's good to be able to sit back some times and reflect on the changes in oneself. they happen so gradually one doesn't always recognise it when they happens, but collectively the make a big difference! that's something to be grateful for.

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  7. good post today. this weekend is my yearly Heart to Heart conference of AA and Alanon Women. I whole weekend of camping at the lake. AA and Alanon speakers and meetings. It is the most fun I have all year.

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  8. I have to admit, I've been feeling rather envious of you the past few days, Syd. But you're setting a good example for me to follow while I try to get my thinking settled. I'm not going to beat myself up too much for being less than serene, but, geez, you do make it look good.

    Peace to you. Hope you can forgive my lapse in my program towards you. ;)

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