The thing that first brought me to my very first Al-Anon Meeting (which goes way back...1972...WOW, I can't believe that it has been that long...34 years ago...I was a mere child) was trying to find some relief from an intolerable burden. I came, in order words, to get "something," just as we all do.

The seed was definitely planted way back that then; although it took many trials and heartaches to bring me to where I'm at now on my journey's path.

By and by, I am learning that "getting" depends greatly on my willingness to give--to be of service to others. This can take many forms; i.e., such as helping to set up at meetings, chairing, making coffee, or just giving comfort and reassurance to others who are in trouble or having a difficult time to focus on positive aspects in their lives.

This same spirit of giving must take place in all areas of my life; particularly with those who are near and dear to me. The name of this kind of giving is LOVE.

Today's Reminder:

Giving love is a fulfillment in itself. It must not matter to us whether it is returned or not. If I give it only to get a response on my terms, my love is cancelled out. If I have the capacity to give love, any return I get for it is a special bonus. It is through giving love, freely and without expectation of return, that we find ourselves, build ourselves spiritually.

"Has a man gained anything who has received a hundred favors and rendered none?

He is great who confers the most benefits."

Author: Ralph Waldo Emerson: Easy on Compensation)

A Wedding Picture

Charles and Patricia Vicory

We celebrated our first anniversary. How time flies!

Enjoying sharing our lives with one another.

Life as husband and wife is a series of special moments...

Comprised of healthy risks and loving interchange between two human beings.

HE CARRIED ME BEFORE I COULD STAND WITH HIM!

This is me 10 years ago (1996) when I began my own personal recovery journey from alcoholism and codependency. Even today, I must keep in the forefront of my mind that I am powerless. When I truly accept my powerlessness, then I am able to receive God's amazing grace.

As Chapter 5 in the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous so clearly states... "RARELY HAVE we seen a person fail who has thoroughly followed our path."

I remember in January, 1996, when I really "hit my emotional bottom." After 13 years of being sober (guess, it was really "dry" back then), I slipped and drank. The next morning, I heard someone inside my head say to me, "Is this what you have learned the last 13 years...is this how you wish to continue with your life?" That is when I fully surrendered and cried out for God to help me. And He did!

Here I am today, June 3, 2006, married, again, having just celebrated my 1st year anniversary to a great guy, who I might say isn't perfect either, and who has many of the same qualities and interests as myself. "Be careful for what you pray for...because you just might get it!" It's all in God's timing, not my timetable. Another lesson that keeps me on my toes!