Yesterday was my first Al-Anon meeting. I've been talking about going for a couple of months, but, you know, things have to get really bad before you reach for that helping hand that prevents you from drowning. I decided to walk from my house, wearing these cute sandals that have been perfectly fine for piddling around the house. Of course, by the time I got there, about ten blocks away, I had oozing blisters. The meeting lasted an hour and a half. I spent most of that time blubbering like an idiot. Apparently I felt this was a safe place to unload the craziness and tension that have been building up in me for the last six weeks. If you knew me, you would know I DO NOT CRY. I'm a tough woman. Raised two kids alone and did a good job of it. They are healthy, happy, college-educated, in good marriages, working, supporting families of their own. I am now raising a foster son. I am a strong woman. But I ran to this meeting like it was my lifeline out of hell. And maybe it will be. I was given a lot of printed material, but the one I am focussing on is a small piece of paper, about 7" X 3", titled "Detachment". It says that detachment allows us to let go of our obsession with another's behavior and begin to lead happier and more manageable lives. Wow. What a concept. This is something I really have to think about. There was a time when I HAD TO put myself and my children first. Somehow, somewhere, I lost that whole mindset. Many of my personal issues, my house, my properties, my relationship with my family, has gone downhill as I struggled to put my troubled friend ahead of my own obligations. Let's see how I can work on this in the next week.
  I've recieved great support from this group. Thanks so much for welcoming me and taking me in!!
