For the last couple of weeks, I've been talking to a colleague at work about some issues he has been having in his life. He and I share a lot of similar feelings and patterns when it comes to expectations in relationships.
I have been hesitant to mention my affiliation with Al-Anon to anyone at work; however, it has become clear to me that he is in a lot of pain. So last week, I shared some of my story with him.
I told him that I had found a way out of the despair. I had used a handful of simple principles to unravel a lot of my problems.
His interest was sparked. And I was willing to listen and share how I was working on my own recovery. We have done a lot of talking. I gave him a meeting list.
Last Friday night, he showed up at a meeting. He shared about his despair and his desire to break the patterns that have been destructive for himself and others. And yesterday, we went together to an open AA meeting and then to my home group meeting. I can see that he has a hunger for what the program has to offer. In fact, I see myself in him.
This is what is great about the program. This is the philosophy of the Twelfth Step made manifest. And for me, it is what keeps the program self-regenerative.
I am glad that he is willing to reach out. I hope that he gets peace of mind and serenity. I don't think that he will be a window shopper in the program who will go away without buying it. Rather I see the desire that I had to raid the store for everything I could find and then ask to see what's in the back room.
Whatever happens, I can give it away and let go. I can turn it over and keep coming back myself. This program is my choice. Someone else attracted me, and I have stayed. I believe that is my HP's will for me.
i am glad you reach out, and have hope, i still have hope however apathetic my area has become i will do my best to be an effective tool of communication between the area, region and groups, hopefully more members will get involved.
ReplyDeleteIt's interesting when and where we are offered the opportunity to be of service.
ReplyDeleteThank you for being willing and open. Your experience blesses many (here and in your life, obviously).
Blessings and aloha...
Interesting coincidence that you are posting about Step 12 today. I was just meditating on it myself last night, and decided that Step 12 is a good springboard for me to do my own blog. You're a great inspiration Syd. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteI am happy your colleague went, and I believe in you. ty always for making me think once again. SMILES
ReplyDeleteWonderful Syd! I am so glad that you passed it on so to speak. I hope that he continues to find what he is looking for.
ReplyDeleteYour post really made me think... I'm glad I'm following your blog.
ReplyDeleteI've been struggling lately and needed to be reminded how I have to give what was given me back -- every day.
I've reached out to many in meetings, but hesitated a couple of years back when a student approached me with her addictions. Hestitate is putting it mildly.
Eventually, I made a choice to share some of my experience, strength and hope. This student is still clean and sober. And I'm grateful for that.
Thank you for the reminder :)
Sue
Reading you always reminds me of the good things I have yet to take part in, service is one of those things. Service to another person in the way you write about it...
ReplyDeleteWow, Syd! It's great that you reached out to the guy and that he responded so immediately. This post makes me want to reach out to more people myself. Thanks for sharing this story!
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you reached out and had such a great response- not everyone is so receptive to suggestions...he must trust you a lot. Keep spreading the word and sharing your story! I've missed your blog, Syd! It's good to have my internet back!
ReplyDeleteI have shared AlAnon with 2 people at work who confided in me. So far they have not done anything about it, but I also gave them meeting lists. When and if they get tired of hurting all the time, maybe they will give it a try.
ReplyDeleteI have been seeing a counselor for 3 years now, usually once a week, depending. I started to attend AlAnon recently, our community does not have a large outreach of meetings unfortunetely. Are there online meetings?? I want to search the back room!
ReplyDeleteThat's great, I have just done that myself when a friend told me about her addict son. Now she is in Al-anon and learning all she can.
ReplyDeleteI feel good with that.
Glad you are getting on so well.
ReplyDelete:)
This is courageous to mix Alanon and work. I wouldn't do that because of exposing the people that keep me going to Alanon meetings. I feel like they have the right to remain anonymous. But, I think it's great that you have helped someone.
ReplyDeleteBeautifully written and inspiring post. I love it when we meet people who can and will be helped by the 12 steps. It's God's work.
ReplyDeleteI believe that we are always where we are suppose to be, but isn't it great when we are aware of it as well!
ReplyDeletewhen it's right, it's right. always worth exploring new avenues...
ReplyDeleteWell done Syd, you carried the message by word and example.
ReplyDeleteExcellent Syd.
ReplyDeleteGod needed someone to show up for this guy, and you did.
I was just chatting last night with someone and how so many people are affected by one alcoholic. That few alcoholics make it to the rooms, it must mean that more who love alcoholics don't make it either.
ReplyDeleteSome of us get lucky.
You know when we practice these principles in all of our affairs people show up...and then we can help them through our own experience, strength and hope...wow, so glad you were there and you listened!!!
ReplyDeleteG
Excellent
ReplyDeleteawwwww..
ReplyDeletelovely story