CatsPajamas

Courage to Change ODAT in Al-Anon II 12/16

I was convinced that I had to take care of everything and everybody—I had no choice. But with the help of Al-Anon I have learned that, while I do have responsibilities, there are also many things I do not have to do:

I don’t have to understand everything. Some things are not my business, and others will simply never make sense to me.

I don’t have to be reluctant to show my feelings. When I’m happy, I can give in to it! When I’m not, I can turn to my Al-Anon friends who help me to grow through the tough times.

I don’t have to feel threatened by the future. I can take life one day at a time.

I don’t have to feel guilty about the past. With the help of the Steps, especially Eight and Nine, I can make amends and learn from the mistakes I have made.

I don’t have to feel alone. I can go to a meeting, or pick up the phone—there is always somebody to reach out to in Al-Anon.

I don’t have to take responsibility for other people’s choices. They have their own Higher Power to help them make their decisions.

I don’t have to give up on my hopes and dreams— my Higher Power is not limited by my lack of imagination.

mazey

Thanks....I love that book, and usually read it every day. I read that days and several more for "good measure"! There always is something that pertains to my thinking that day.

CatsPajamas

That's the part that really jumped off the page at me. I'm not responsible for anyone else's feelings, choices, consequences, hopes, dreams, successes or failures. All I am responsible for is ME.

Hugs
Cat

mazey

Cat, did you know that would be the one that "jumped" at me....Thanks!