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Friday evening Mark's home group had a Gratitude Dinner. I was so excited to go and be there for Mark. I was excited to meet some people from his home group. I was excited for him because I know he was putting a lot of time into helping get the dinner ready. The kids and I got there and the first person to come over to us was his sponsor. He gave us a huge hug and it was so nice to meet him. I know how much time Mark spends with him so it was super nice to finally put a name with face. It was definitely a great welcome!
Of course things didn't go as I would have liked. Ethan was having a meltdown. There were a lot of people at this dinner. Over 200 people. So I think Ethan was overstimulated. But it was such a nice dinner. Each person got a chance to say what they were thankful for. It was nice to hear so many people talk. It was nice to hear Mark say how thankful he is for the kids and I. I loved being able to tell everyone how grateful I am for the second chance Mark and I have been given. I was really reminded how thankful I am for this journey.
I don't get a chance to go to enough Al-Anon meetings. I try to do zoom meetings but I don't always get a chance. I have slacked a bit. So sometimes I think I take things for granted. I am lucky. Not everyone gets this chance. Not everyone's outcome is what we have. I know that first hand. My mother-in-law is not here with us because of addiction. So I know what this damn disease can do to you.
I've been letting silly things bring me down. I've been letting other people and their choices bring me down. I was reminded that I have SOOOOOO much to be grateful. I was reminded that I have the most amazing support system and I was reminded that I am grateful and lucky. I am thankful for that dinner. It has given me a chance to tell myself stop being stupid lol and be grateful for what you have in life.