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PART OF THE SOLUTION
Recently, I was standing in the "quick" checkout line at the
grocery store. There was a lengthy delay with a customer's check
and I could hear grumbling from the people waiting behind me.
Before Al-Anon, I would have reacted to this type of situation
by shifting from one foot to the other, turning to give
"knowing" glances to my fellow sufferers, and sighing
impatiently. Of course I never would have complained vocally,
which was consistent with how I dealt with unpleasant alcoholic
situations in my life. I suffered in silence, allowing my body
language to convey my displeasure.Al-Anon principles have
helped me see how I can be part of the problem, or part of the
solution. I felt so serene waiting in that line, knowing I did
not have the power to change what was happening. By accepting
the situation I could stand in line quietly while peacefully
scanning magazine covers. I knew the clerk was doing her very
best to resolve the problem and she needed my consideration, not
my contempt.
When the line finally moved, the customer behind me said
loudly, "I hope no one else is going to write a check," I
turned, smiled warmly, and said, "I thought I would write
three,' and of course everyone laughed, which broke the tension.
I feel I can speak to others in this manner because I felt no
animosity to any of the other customers. I've learned in Al-Anon
to love everyone in a very special way.
- Anonymous
Reprinted from The Forum magazine, April 2003 Issue,
P.9 |
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These materials are adapted and reprinted with permission of Al-Anon Family
Group Headquarters, Inc., Virginia Beach, VA
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