Day 169: Helping Others

Helping others that have suffered at the hands of alcoholism is a key component to one’s own recovery. Today I had the opportunity to help someone that has endured years of abuse through her family’s alcoholism. It’s so unfortunate how families can be torn apart by this disease.

I walked in the door of the church where today’s Al-anon meeting was being held, and I tried to remember exactly what it was like for me when I walked in there for the very first time nearly one year ago to the day. I remember being frightened, ashamed, and feeling lower than low. I also had absolutely no idea of what to expect.

A lot of focus is placed on “newcomers” at meetings, and perhaps more so than many can effectively take, or become comfortable with receiving. During my first meeting I was glad to be surrounded by others like me, but I was also feeling obligated to share my story, and I simply wasn’t ready to do that. Don’t get me wrong, one is never required or pressured to share, but I personally would have felt awkward if I hadn't shared a bit of my story. Keep in mind, I’d been an intensely private person up until that point in my life. The fact is, the Al-anon attendees are simply trying to be warm, inviting, and attentive to those that are in the midst of their trouble with their alcoholic.

So today was a wonderful day at many levels. It was great to help a friend, and to provide some hope to a person that I think was feeling a bit hopeless. One day at a time. "M," thanks for joining me at today's meeting.

Distance: 17.85 miles
Calories burned: 1,639
Time: 1:39:25 hours
Elevation gain: 2,212 ft
Garmin Connect ride details: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/20052922