Thom’s Nutshell:Ignoring our own dark potential only makes it stronger. Avoid washing dishes and there are not only more of them, they are also harder to clean. The difference between a reasonable and unreasonable expectation.From Allen: You can want from the best in you, or from the worst in you. You can want from what is healthy and solid, or what is empty and covetous. Wanting from neediness is common. Wanting from your solid, flexible self takes personal development. It takes growing up.From Thom: if any of you are afraid you’ve taken on your parents’ characteristics, relax. You have.The 5 Points of Balance:Staying clear about our values and worth in the face of criticism (not letting others edit your sense of self).Calming our anxiety and comforting our emotional bruises or trauma.Grounded responding and not overreacting or under reacting when there is tension or anxiety.Confronting ourselves for our own integrity and able to meaningfully endure discomfort for our growth and development.Unhooking self, others and reality from unreasonable expectations.Our music is provided by the great southern artist Jefferson Ross. Learn more about Jefferson at jeffersonross.comVisit our website:www.emotionalsobriety.infoFollow us on social media:Instagram: thomrutledge2Joe C. Twitter: @Rebellion_DogsLearn more about Joe C., Secular AA and Rebellion Dogs here:https://rebelliondogspublishing.com  Friendly Circle Berlin workshops: https://friendlycircleberlin.org/events Allen’s book, 12 Essential Insights for Emotional Sobriety: https://www.amazon.com/12-Essential-Insights-Emotional-Sobriety/dp/1955415129/ Join Allen & Thom at our Thursday night, 7pm PST Zoom meeting on Emotional Sobriety and the Steps (login information below): https://zoom.us/j/330149513Password: 375986 For our ongoing workshop video series on Emotional Sobriety and the 12 Steps, visit our YouTube channel here:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHEM2-kqLkfp3I4c0jy-X-g Also, please join our “Emotional Sobriety and Recovery” FB Group at the following link:https://www.facebook.com/groups/120450976662519We’d love to stay in touch in between meetings. We appreciate feedback! Contact Patrick, our producer, at [email protected] for any questions or comments.