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Courage to Change:

I used to think that being good to myself meant eating whatever I wanted, buying anything that caught my eye, sleeping only a few hours a night, and avoiding any activity that wasn’t fun and exciting. The trouble was that the consequences were very uncomfortable, and when I let myself think about it, I felt I was wasting my life.

Today, being good to myself is far more challenging, but the benefits are absolutely wonderful! I attend two or three Al-Anon meetings each week, read my literature daily, and take time out to talk to God. I try very hard to make my serenity more important than any of the circumstances I encounter.

I now enjoy wholesome food, exercise in a way that I find fun, and handle money in a more conscientious way. I celebrate my growth. I dance, I draw, and I enjoy wonderful friendships. My lifestyle isn’t rigid, nor would I want it to be. I still enjoy spontaneous moments, but today I have them by choice.

Today’s Reminder:

I deserve to make choices that let me feel good about myself. It may take a while to see results, but I am building a life that promotes my health and self-esteem. It’s worth the wait.

“The strongest principle of growth lies in human choice.”
– George Eliot

From the book “Courage to Change”. Copyright Al-Anon Family Group Headquarters, Inc. 1992