Our Program Tools – 308

The Al-Anon program provides so many tools. There are slogans and steps, and new ways of approaching life’s troubles. Which ones do you use comfortably? Are there any you wish you had used, but didn’t remember to pick them up?

Marylou, Pat, and Kelly join me to talk about their favorite tools of the program, and how they have used those tools to enhance their recovery. Our conversation was guided by these questions:

* Discussion points

* What tool of the Al-Anon program is helpful to you today?* How is it helpful?* How do you use it?* What tools have you used? * In what situation?* In response to what problem?* How did they help in that situation?* Do you have tools that you use with ease?* What are they?* How did you pack them in your toolkit?* What tools do you wish you could remember to use, but they aren’t yet familiar or comfortable for you? * How might you remind yourself that they are available, so you might be able to use them next time you need them?

In our conversation, these tools were mentioned and discussed:

*

* Daily readers – One Day at a Time in Al-Anon, Courage to Change, Hope for Today.* Slogans – “pocket change”, “live and let live”, “let go and let god”* Meditation* Can i stay “in the room” at least ½ the time?* Do I feel better when i finish?* Just checking in with myself — getting into the moment* Sitting with feelings* Meetings* Fellowship* Literature in general* Serenity Prayer – internal pause to connect with my Higher Power* “Just for Tonight” bookmark* Calling people* “This is what I want, this is what I need, this is what I feel, this is what I’ll do.”* Pause — is a tool for finding the right tool* Asking, “what is the percent likelihood of serenity if I do this thing?”* Meditation apps on phone* Insight Timer* Sounds True — Mindfulness Daily meditation training, also available for Android and iPhone. * “Help, thanks, wow” prayer concept* R.A.I.N  — recognize, accept, investigate, nurture (a tool from Tara Brock)* My sponsor!

Readings and Links

We read from Courage to Change, January 4.

Upcoming topics

I'd like to do another “holiday toolkit” episode, and for this, I need your help. What program tools help you to survive the holidays with (or without) your family? What mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical preparations do you make? What do you bring with you? Do you go to extra meetings? What readings help you to do more than just survive, but enjoy the holidays?

It's almost Thanksgiving. What are you grateful for today? This year?

Please call us at 734-707-8795 or email [email protected] with your questions or experience, strength and hope. Or just leave a comment right here.