August 11.  Rayhab, the facilitator picked up the threads, “Yesterday we considered the value of religion for forming human development and relationships too.  Today we look at the fact that all religions from the most primitive until today have certain laws, rules, norms and standards, in other words a moral code. To live a good life as an individual man or woman or also as a couple and family demands sacrifices.  The group members were given time to think and share.  “I think I have carried my cross with dignity.”  “My cross is still very hard.”   “My cross was taken away from me after we joined AA and Alanon to deal with the alcohol abuse in our home.”  “I thank God, but pray to him to give me strength.” 

Reflect, share, act. Scripture:  If any man or woman would come after me, let them deny themselves and take up his cross and follow me.  Matt 16:24  Pope Francis: using inclusive language)   Families often experience problems when one of their members is emotionally immature because he or she still bears the scars of earlier experiences.  An unhappy childhood or adolescence can breed personal crises that affect one’s marriage. AL 239