djshell97206

I have actively volunteered since I was in middle school, but as an adult I have not done much. I would always feel compelled to donate money to the United Way and to disaster relief. When I moved to Austin they recommended I get out and volunteer so I can meet people. I did not start volunteering until three years later by contacting the city volunteer center. At the time I did it was working two jobs, but would still manage to get out there and help my community.

I continue to volunteer in the community especially now during the holidays. I would suggest contacting your local community volunteer center and if there is not one I would say United Way would be a great place to start.

It is definitely freeing and scary to realize that after so many years of life that you are NOT alone and that YOU should not feel crazy. Being aware of your co-dependency is scary because the glasses you have been wearing to perceive your friendships, relationships, life have magically been wiped clean and NOW you can start to take control over your life. Not be manipulated into doing things you do not want to do…to finally put YOURSELF FIRST. It is liberating but yet scary.

For me, I realized a lot about my behaviors, my patterns,my obsessions, and my anxiety…...With positive support and GREAT friends I would not be able to do this alone. My friends can see things for what it is and I may not see them, because I have always worried about others before myself. I am working harder and harder each day to overcome this and take back control of my life. To finally feel good after hanging out with my friend and not drained or full of anxiety. It feels good to be around supporting and loving people. I would recommend reading books about Co-Dependency and talking to others who suffer from it as well. Attend 12 step meetings….keep doing it until you find one that is right for you.

It took friend support to get it done…...I had a friend come in from out of town and she motivated me to do it. I find cleaning easier with compnay for some reason….we got it done and I love being here now.