Courage to Change:
Alcoholism in a family tends to promote neglect of self. Consequently, I never learned how to take care of myself when I didn’t feel well. Even with a high fever, I went about my business just as I would any other day. Anything else seemed self-indulgent and weak.
In Al-Anon l’ve had a chance to discover a different way to take care of myself. I see others giving themselves extra attention when they are sick. They rest when they feel tired. They sometimes take the day off. They eat balanced diets. They see doctors when it seems appropriate.
By following the examples of other Al-Anon members, I am learning to accept that I can’t always feel on top of the world and to respond more lovingly. It’s just one more area where I am letting go of my unrealistic expectations. Maybe illness is something my Higher Power uses to tell me to be good to myself.
Today’s Reminder:
I am not a robot. Sometimes I get sick, or tired, or preoccupied. I will make an effort to learn what I can do to help myself feel better.
“It is crucial to be diligent about taking care of ourselves, especially during stressful periods.”
– In All Our Affairs