God, help me to see this situation, this person, this thought differently. Help me change my perspective. When I am angry, hurt, afraid, or resentful what might happen if I change my perspective?
detachment
Row Your Own Boat
I’ve heard boundaries described as rowing your own boat and letting others row theirs. When I first realized my son was using alcohol and drugs, I immediately abandoned my boat and jumped into his to take over the oars.
Finding Help in Al-Anon
I started in Nar-Anon in my mid 50’s because two of my children were using drugs and alcohol and I knew I was powerless to stop them. There I heard about an Al-Anon meeting and wondered, could it help me with my own issues of growing up in a dysfunctional family where drinking was a problem?
Neutral Responses for Detaching
“I try to use neutral responses to avoid getting drawn into an argument, someone else’s business or something I’m not ready to respond to in depth.” Neutral responses don’t express agreement or disagreement but acknowledge a statement or question.
Learning and Using Al‑Anon Tools to a Better Life
It was over 24 years ago that I was living in a state of constant confusion, anxiety, and chaos when, by the grace of my God, I found my way to the rooms of Al-Anon. I had been married over 25 years and we had three children very close in age. Dan was a very hard-working, responsible guy who also loved beer.