“Filled with thoughts of their unhappiness, their whole idea is to talk it all out. Fortunate is the newcomer who finds a group that permits the relief of such expression. It gives others something by which to measure their own progress. It gives them a chance to express compassion, to give encouragement and hope. But still more fortunate is the newcomer to a group that does not allow such unburdening to continue, meeting after meeting.” (ODAT, 21 March)
A few months ago, I complained to J, and I thought I was going to get a good old chat about my complaint.
He thought for a few moments, and said, “So, what are you going to do about it?”
It turned out I was done talking about the problem.