One Day at a Time in Al-Anon:
If irrational and irresponsible behavior on the part of the alcoholic has betrayed us into assuming an attitude of contempt for him, some serious examination of ourselves is in order.
They are not “bad boys,” who must be directed, disciplined or punished by us. They are sick, confused and guilt-ridden human beings with badly battered egos.
God has given no one the right to humiliate another. In every one of His children there are qualities that should command our respect, and to withhold it is a wrong that will return to wound us.
Today’s Reminder:
It is vital to my serenity to separate, in my mind, the sickness of alcoholism from the person who suffers from it. I will dignify him with the respect which is everyone’s due. This, in turn, will give him back the self-esteem that is an important element in wanting sobriety.
“The surest plan to make a Man Is: Think him so.”
— James R. Lowell