Ann

You are reading from the book The Language of Letting Go

Negativity

Some people are carriers of negativity. They are storehouses of pent up anger and volatile emotions. Some remain trapped in the victim role and act in ways that further their victimization. And others are still caught in the cycle of addictive or compulsive patterns.

Negative energy can have a powerful pull on us, especially if we're struggling to maintain positive energy and balance. It may seem that others who exude negative energy would like to pull us into the darkness with them. We do not have to go. Without judgment, we can decide it's okay to walk away, okay to protect ourselves.

We cannot change other people. It does not help others for us to get off balance. We do not lead others into the Light by stepping into the darkness with them.

Today, God, help me to know that I don't have to allow myself to be pulled into negativity - even around those I love. Help me set boundaries. Help me know it's okay to take care of myself.

From The Language of Letting Go by Melody Beattie ©1990, Hazelden Foundation.

Ann

I found that I could not live in my son's addiction and my recovery at the same time. it just wasn't possible to do that and stay balanced.

Choosing to find my own light, and staying true to myself and my needs, helped me to find a place where I finally found peace and serenity.

Hugs

teke

learning that i can't change others has been a hard lessen for me to learn. i realize that people have a right to live their lives the way they want and it has nothing to do with whether i agree or not, i can only change me and my attitude toward people, and that do include love ones. thanks for the reminder

helpus

"We do not lead others into the Light by stepping into the darkness with them."

Thanks