Hello everyone!

I have been recovering from co-dependency for 6 years now, and at times I feel like a beginner, but I know that I have made progress.

I have been a single parent and divorced for 18 years, now. I went to treatment 3 years ago for co-dependency and read my literature and talk to others who are recovering, also. We only have one CODA meeting here and so I go to another 12 Step program when I can.

I have a meditation book, and when I pick it up and read and meditate on what it says to me, I no longer feel alone. One of the things in my life I have had to work on is feeling like the only person going through something.

I do say “no” more often, and let the other person take responsibility for
their actions.

And it is true, that person still tries to manipulate me, and get me to believe I am responsible for their life. My three grown children are the most challenging for me to practice my co-dependency recovery. I still can feel guilt for not being a “better mother” when they were growing up. I was married to an alcoholic, and they grew up in a sick environment. I keep getting reminded at meetings that they have their own lives and recovery to seek in their time, not mine. Like God will have things happen in my life in his time, not mine.

I am now single once again, as I broke off a 3 year engagement to a man. It has been a year now, and I feel proud I have not went back with him. I am no longer willing to accept unacceptable behavior from him or anyone else. Building up my self-esteem once again has been hard, but I am grateful for the Co-Dependency program.

I will continue to learn and grow, and hope others out there do to. It is in groups and friends where I find my strength. I now have a gentle, caring, and loving Higher Power, and all I need to do is accept his love for me. God Bless to everyone who is in recovery!

Sincerely,

Sheila L.