Thankfully Abstinent
Each holiday season I am abstinent is sacred for me. When I used to focus on the food, Food, FOOD, I never had time to really connect with my family & friends. Since OA and an abstinent way of life, I have much more time to devote to making connections that enrich my life in a deeper way. Even family who may like to "talk about others" gives me a chance to let them know how much I appreciate them and move conversation into a healthier topic. Lessons I've learned in Program about listening instead of being so ready to give advice (or my opinion) have supported my effort to have deeper friendships...even within my family.
I usually try to book-end (calling an OA buddy before/after the event) holidays so I have a quick connect with OA buddies too, this reminds me why an abstinent way of life is so important every day of the year.
So as you head into the holiday season I encourage you to focus on the people at the event and listen to them as they speak from the heart. It will warm their heart as well as your own.
In OA Service,
Sue B, Region One Chair
Each holiday season I am abstinent is sacred for me. When I used to focus on the food, Food, FOOD, I never had time to really connect with my family & friends. Since OA and an abstinent way of life, I have much more time to devote to making connections that enrich my life in a deeper way. Even family who may like to "talk about others" gives me a chance to let them know how much I appreciate them and move conversation into a healthier topic. Lessons I've learned in Program about listening instead of being so ready to give advice (or my opinion) have supported my effort to have deeper friendships...even within my family.
I usually try to book-end (calling an OA buddy before/after the event) holidays so I have a quick connect with OA buddies too, this reminds me why an abstinent way of life is so important every day of the year.
So as you head into the holiday season I encourage you to focus on the people at the event and listen to them as they speak from the heart. It will warm their heart as well as your own.
In OA Service,
Sue B, Region One Chair