My husband and I were cruising through life. Neither of us had grown up in alcoholic homes. We married and had three kids. We did what we thought was best, took them to church, passed on the lessons we had learned and talked about the dangers of drugs and alcohol, never realizing the disease was lurking in my family’s past.
Forum
A Map to Serenity and Happiness
I am surrounded by alcoholism—both active alcoholics and those in recovery. These are people very close to me, whom I love. Yet, I am a happy person! How is it that I can feel so joyful? Why am I content? How do I have peace in my heart with all this around me? Because in Al‑Anon, I have been blessed with a program that gives me a map to serenity.
What, Exactly, Are Al‑Anon’s Spiritual Principles?
Early in my recovery, I’d hear members mention “the principles” in meetings. I would see references to “spiritual principles” in our Conference Approved Literature (CAL). I noticed that the Twelfth Step guides us to “practice these principles.” While members in my groups shared freely, I couldn’t seem to understand that there might be an underlying theme to each Legacy that could be considered a “principle.” What were these principles and where could I find them?
I Felt Compassion from the Forum
The Forum is a monthly publication of Al-Anon Family Groups, that offers help and hope for the families and friends of alcoholics. Al-Anon and Alateen members share their challenges, insights, and progress along their path of self-discovery and spiritual growth