I came to Al‑Anon at the suggestion of a family member who was in recovery. I had become so overwhelmed from the consequences of [my loved one’s] alcoholism that I felt I was going insane. I felt so frightened and unresourceful. Since I didn’t know what else to do, I accepted the suggestion. At that first meeting, I sat in the back, listened, and cried. I was welcomed and invited to come back. When I heard the words, “We admitted we were powerless over alcohol— that our lives had become unmanageable,” I knew that this was exactly how I felt—powerless.
So, I came back again and again. I came to realize I was powerless over a lot of people, places, and things. Knowing that helped me calm down in chaotic situations. I could then concentrate on what I could control—myself. I started making decisions—small ones—that were in my control and good for me. For one thing, I went for walks instead of staying in conflicts. Today, I am still powerless over people, places, and things, but I am much more okay with it. I take better care of myself, and I don’t try to control others. I am more mindful of their right to choose their own life. I am so much calmer inside as I go about my business and let others go about theirs. Today I am much easier to live with and work with. My relationships are improving every day, thanks to Al‑Anon.
By Murielle D., New Brunswick
The Forum, April 2020
Reprinted with permission of The Forum, Al-Anon Family Group Headquarters., Inc., Virginia Beach, VA