IN CHURCH BASEMENTS: 1999 and 2011

My journal entry, February 23, 1999, 6:45 am: I went to an Al-Anon meeting last night, and I found a peace that has eluded me. I’m truly amazed that my soul quieted there, in the basement of a church. What made the difference? I heard such pain from others, and I listened intently as to how they are struggling to survive. I saw in their eyes a determination to get healthy, their intense love for their alcoholic or addict, and true compassion for each other. Yes, something happened last night. Many of them have worse pain than I, and all seem to struggle with similar issues – worry, fear and detachment. I can find strength in their strength. Maybe I’ve been searching for someone to give me strength. Maybe I can find strength and comfort in Al-Anon and ultimately in myself.

An Open Letter to Chrissy and Lisa, September 28, 2011, 4:47 PM: Thanks for reaching out to me and inviting me to your Al-Anon meetings. Your generosity of spirit and your compassion touched me.

So what is it that keeps me coming back? When I look around the room, I see people who understand where I’ve been and how I’ve suffered. When I share our story, people look at me with understanding. When I leave, I don’t feel stripped and vulnerable, but I feel elevated, heard and supported.

Magic happens in these Al-Anon meetings. Here we find hope. I’m remain a grateful member of Al-Anon.

 

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Chrissy Huether
Chrissy Huether
12 years ago

“Recovery cannot occur in isolation. Together we can accomplish what we cannot do alone” – Hope For Today

Cathy | Treatment Talk
12 years ago

I so agree. No one really understands except the group of parents at my Al-Anon meeting. You don’t have to explain, be embarrassed, pretend everything is ok. They are there for you and I am there for them. They have really become a group of friends.

Nanci
12 years ago

Dear Libby,
Thank you for sharing this passage and reflection. Hands down, Alanon has been my lifeline. It is ONLY in these rooms, that other members have a front row seat ‘in my life.’ My world has become much smaller, sharing only with whom I feel safe. Alanon gives me the forum and it is true…it works if you work it and it doesn’t if you don’t. What a gift.
Off to my Friday Alanon meeting!
Blessings, hope and always…possibilities,
Love,
Nanci

Jane
Jane
12 years ago

Where would I be without my Monday night group? They all mean so much to me, have given so much to me and are my lifeline too. I never miss a Monday unless I am out of town. We share our lives, ups and downs, truths, tools and hope with eachother. When I’m weak they are strong. When they are weak I am strong. It is a gift. We all share our little”nuggets” of experience strenth and hope with eachother.

Libby
Libby
12 years ago

Dear Chrissy, Cathy, Nanci and Jane,

I agree with you all: We find peace and wisdom in our Al-Anon meetings. We gather together to support each other in love and hope. I always have touched by the reminder, “We aren’t perfect. The welcome we give you may not show the warmth we have in our hearts for you. After a while, you’ll discover that though you may not like all of us you’ll love us in a very special way, the same way we already love you.”

My love to you,

Libby

Jane
Jane
12 years ago

Similarly, my friends on Thursday night- this small group-are important to me too. I look foward to this e-mail from my Stay Close group. Thank you all for being here and thank you Libby for sharing your experience with us. Your book was so helpful to me
Jane