My philosophy is to not just accept what everyone else is doing, just because it’s popular opinion. I have to test it, research it and measure it, to how I live my life, how I want to live my life, does it support my beliefs, values, goals, and I have a few select friends I bounce ideas, thoughts, and life decisions off of.  I made a bold decision to walk away from AA and was warned I was doomed and would certainly fail, when I did.  I honestly believe, I would have drank again, if I would have stayed in the program.

I’m not saying NOT to be part of the AA program or a 12 step fellowship. It has been a way of living and a life support for many, for decades.  Whether you are in the program or not, pay attention to your truth.

You are a powerful woman who is equipped with internal wisdom to guide you.  Ask questions when you have them. Seek answers to the questions that are bubbling up inside. Don’t just shut the questions, whispers, nudges down.  If something doesn’t feel right, pay attention.  And find mentors that support you, not a program.

I went searching for a quote that was fitting for this post. This is what I found:

“Believe nothing, no matter where you read it, or who said it, no matter if I have said it, unless it agrees with your own reason and your own common sense.” – Buddha

Apparently, it’s somewhat misinterpreted (kind of ironic with what I’m writing about), according to FakeBuddhaQuotes.com – I followed their link for the “original version” and found this:

“…Traditions are not to be followed simply because they are traditions. Reports (such as historical accounts or news) are not to be followed simply because the source seems reliable. One’s own preferences are not to be followed simply because they seem logical or resonate with one’s feelings. Instead, any view or belief must be tested by the results it yields when put into practice; and — to guard against the possibility of any bias or limitations in one’s understanding of those results — they must further be checked against the experience of people who are wise. The ability to question and test one’s beliefs in an appropriate way is called appropriate attention. The ability to recognize and choose wise people as mentors is called having admirable friends.”

don't believe what I say unlessYou have to test theories,beliefs, and traditions.  Times change and people are individuals.  We are not all the same, inside or outside.

I know I wouldn’t have enjoyed my personal growth and my sobriety over the last 10 years, if I would have just accepted what everybody around me was pushing as THE TRUTH.

– Teresa Rodden, Certified Life Coach

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