Carlotta

I came to Al-Anon confused about what was and was not my responsibility. Today, after lots of Step work, I believe I am responsible for the following:

to be loyal to my values;
to please myself first;
to keep an open mind;
to detach with love;
to rid myself of anger and resentment;
to express my ideas and feelings instead of stuffing them;
to attend Al-Anon meetings and keep in touch with friends in the fellowship;
to be realistic in my expectations;
to make healthy choices;
and to be grateful for my blessings.

I also have certain responsibilities to others:

to extend a welcome to newcomers;
to be of service;
to recognize that others have a right to live their own lives;
to listen, not just with my ears, but also with my heart;
and to share my joy as well as my sorrow.

I am NOT responsible for my alcoholic loved one's drinking, sobriety, cleanliness, diet, dental hygiene, or other choices. It is my responsibility to treat this person with courtesy, gentleness, and love. In this way we both can grow.

Today's Reminder:

Today, if I am tempted to interfere with something that is none of my business, I can turn my attention instead to some way in which I can take care of myself.

"I have a primary responsibility to myself: to make myself into the best person I can possibly be. Then, and only then, will I have something worthwhile to share."

DG0409

Thanks for posting these Carlotta.