Gratitude

Today at my Al-Anon meeting the topic was Gratitude. I was thinking to myself, lame. I come here for experience, strength and hope... how could this possibly help me? Clearly you can see the frame of mind I was in - and it was exactly what I needed to hear!

When I started going to Al-Anon one of the first topics was getting in touch with your higher power and I remember someone saying if you don't pray now - start. If you don't know how to start, start with listing the things you are thankful for, it can be anything - a job, a car that runs, a sunny day, etc. Now, being raised LDS I certainly knew how to pray, but it had been so long it was almost as if it was new again. Today's topic reminded me I haven't been praying - and I have been feeling especially crap-tastic lately... I'm obviously overdue for a heart to heart with my Higher Power.

I was able to share how grateful I am for Al-Anon and the things I have learned - namely Detachment and what a profound difference that has made in my life. I have had several people comment that they are impressed with how well I am handling the separation and I know it is because of the things I have learned in Al-Anon. I can see myself years ago sitting on the couch in the avenues with Amy (my then boyfriend's sister) and being borderline hysterical because I thought Matt was packing up to leave... And the situation with Ken wasn't better - in fact it was about 100 times worse ( a story for another post). And here I am, my longest relationship, my husband no less, the man I vowed to love for better or worse and I am holding it together and doing it pretty well if I do say so myself.

I am grateful for my program, the people I have met. My wonderful family and my dear sweet friends. I am grateful for the growth I have experienced and for the opportunity I was given to be able to grow.

I am getting to be pro at the acceptance speeches, huh? :)