Keeping it simple

Earlier this week, the daily entry in the little book One Day at a Time in Al-Anon offered me a good reminder.

As the mother of an actively using meth addict with a 1-year-old baby, my life can be full of uncertainty and turmoil—although they’re 2,000 miles away. In times of trouble, when my mind is racing, it can be hard to slow down, think through what’s happening and change my focus. But it helps to focus on one idea or concept that can bring quiet and serenity.

Often, I try to concentrate on gratitude. Listing those things for which I’m thankful, either mentally or on paper, focuses my thoughts and gives me a more positive outlook almost instantaneously.

When I’m trying to make a decision--especially one I’ve prayed about--the Al-Anon concept “Keep it simple” is an excellent reminder. It helps clear my mind so I can receive God’s guidance in the situations at hand.

A scripture that has been especially comforting to me throughout the past 14 years is Psalm 62:5-6—Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation, he is my fortress—I will not be shaken.

I’m always interested in how others cope with their times of trouble. What have you found to be helpful?

http://www.al-anon.alateen.org/

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More ups and downs

The very same day I received some exciting personal news this week, life came crashing in on my son.

Another ride on that emotional roller coaster. But for some reason, maybe because we've been prepared for this, or maybe because I'm doing better at taking each day--each hour--as it comes, it hasn't been so devastating for me. I've also chosen to look at the positive side of the situation.

First of all, I'm grateful he's still alive. Whatever he faces in the coming months and years, I know God has granted him mercy and will give him the support he needs. I know the man my son is deep down and can just imagine the man he will become when he's not using drugs.

I'm grateful for my family and that my daughter is able to support her brother in a way that's healthy, with boundaries. I'm glad that the baby can spend some more time with her daddy when he's clean and sober, and hope she will realize and remember, even at her early age, that he loves her deeply.

And above all, we do hope this will be the beginning of his recovery that will last the rest of his life.

Then just when I needed another good dose of hope and encouragement, I found this story in Sober 24 Highlights. Take a moment and read it. Come back and let me know if you were as moved by it as I was.

http://www.sober24.com/Highlights/40/vobId__727/