No one can make you jealous, angry, vengeful, or greedy - unless you let him. - Napoleon Hill 
Listen If it is language that makes us human, one half of language is to listen. In this program, I have learned to listen. In most meetings, I cannot interrupt, comment, or respond immediately or directly to another person’s share. I can only sit and listen. I can only take in what they are saying. I can only connect it to my thoughts and understandings. As an Al-Anon friend, and most particularly, as a sponsor, I have learned to listen without judgement. I have learned to still my desire to find a solution, to fix a friend’s problems. I know that I most often am not looking for a solution, but for a loving ear. I want someone who will hear me, who will understand me, who will empathize with me. Someone who can say “Yes, you are human. Yes, you have erred. Yes, you are loved. Yes, I hear you.” I am learning to give back what I most yearn for. It is a gift to be listened to, and it is a wonderful gift to listen. |
Fixing Me, Not You
I thought Al‑Anon was my ticket to fix my daughter. But in return, it saved me from myself. I have found friendship, unconditional love, hope and serenity. I realize how alcoholism affected my life growing up, and I now see it in my grown children. I can’t change the past. But I am setting an example for a better way of living.
Today, I have a better life free from drama and emotional stuff that wasn’t mine to carry. I can laugh, love and be gentle and honest with myself. Sometimes I struggle, but I have tools. I know I can’t do it alone, and I’m always welcome. But the best part is that I don’t need to try to fix everyone anymore. By Roxanne R., Ontario, Canada February, 2018 Reprinted with permission of The Forum Al-Anon Family Groups Incorporated, Virginia Beach, VA 
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Today's Hope is an Al-Anon themed site and is not affiliated with Al-Anon's World Service Office. The daily sharings contain a reading from Al-Anon's Conference Approved publication The Forum, an inspirational quote/saying and a recovery based reading/meditation. The intent of Today's Hope is to share experience, strength and hope. Please take what you like and leave the rest.
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