One Day at a Time in Al-Anon:
An Al-Anon member may devote a lot of time to reading scientific books on alcoholism, because she imagines it will make her better able to cope with “the problem.” Unless we intend to become professionals in the field, nothing is to be gained by an in-depth study of the disease.
Nor does it help to explore the reasons for the alcoholic’s behavior; certainly not while our own conduct shows we are not entirely rational. So, again, all change must begin with us.
The search should be for our own serenity; which will prove to have remarkable power to inspire others in the home.
Today’s Reminder:
Do I read up on alcoholism because I still hope I can find a way to make my spouse stop drinking? Do I blame all the family’s adversities on the alcoholic, sober or not? Have I the courage to face my own mistakes and character flaws? Do I justify my resentment and rationalize my self-pity?
“How much trouble he avoids who does not look to see what others say or do, but only what he does himself, that it may be just and pure.” — Marcus Aurelius, Meditations