Member: Frank D
Location: Vancouver Wa
Date: 1/5/2003
Time: 8:56:58 AM
Hi all, am Frank an alcoholic. One Day At Time, after the steps stand's super high in my life. What do you thing? God Bless & thanks for being here.
Member: Penny S
Location: Australia
Date: 1/5/2003
Time: 9:01:24 AM
Hi my name is Penny and i am an alcoholic. Driven by a hundred forms of fear. That's me and still am at times but AA has taught me how to turn that around, now when gripped by fear, i talk to someone, say a little prayer and turn it into courage something i never possesed when drinking what i love about life now is there is always another point of view, the positive i don't have to live in the negative anymore the choice is mine thanks to AA. I don't if the topic is fear chioce or altered attitudes make of it what you will! Thank you Penny S
Member: Frank D
Location: Vancouver WA
Date: 1/5/2003
Time: 9:08:16 AM
Frank again, an still an alcoholic. Forgot the"A" in "One Day At a Time". Being human One Day At A Time is OK, thanks to AA.
Member: Landscape Ray
Location: Scotland
Date: 1/5/2003
Time: 9:38:47 AM
Thanks for the subject Frank o.d.a.a.t living for to-day was a thing i couldnt understand i was always projecting ahead what if ! so when my sponser suggested to me to keep it in the day and not get worried about to-morrow which wasnt even here yet? some times its hard but i have learned i can cope to-day and with god and the program and meetings it has become easier lots of ((())) Ray
Member: Robin A
Location: Florida
Date: 1/5/2003
Time: 10:40:49 AM
Todays Meditation from Hazelden seemed to fit the topic of the week to a "T" Date: Sun, 05 Jan 2003 Today's thought is: I have a new philosophy. I'm only going to dread one day at a time. -- Charles Schulz Living one day at a time is a big project. Most of us have just enough faith, patience, and courage to last 24 hours. We all seem to be in need of a daily refueling. Living in today helps keep our lives balanced and simple. At first, we may need to practice staying in the present. We may find that we need to keep bringing ourselves back to today from yesterday or tomorrow. There is nothing that will happen today that we can't, with God's help, manage. Today let me keep my feet firmly planted in the bedrock of the present, my only reality. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Today's meditation comes from the book Our Best Days by Sally Coleman , Nancy Hull-Mast copyright 1990
Member: Jules H.
Location: Iowa
Date: 1/5/2003
Time: 10:44:13 AM
Hi, Jules here, a grateful recovering alcoholic. Living one day at a time is a great topic and is a concept that evolved slowly as I kept coming around...... I also had fear of everything, fears of the future, fear of people and fear revolving around what I'd done when I was drunk, goes mental blank spots where you can't remember what you did(blackout drinking) I got a sponsor and she said, why don't you try living in the moment which was all new to me, but in tried what she suggested and it works! Now days I wake up thanking God for another day and look at it as a blessing or a gift, and ask for direction as to what I need to do in this day only. Thanks to you all for being here and for all the meetings because this is how I learn to live, sober, sane(not always, but I'm a work in progress)happy, joyous, and free!!! Your friend in the fellowship, Jules
Member: Elizabeth E.
Location: Southeast USA
Date: 1/5/2003
Time: 10:45:48 AM
All I have is today. Most days I can stay in today or the moment. If I project past the end of this day, fear. Today is so much easier! Happy New Year.
Member: AZbill
Location: Sierra Vista, Arizona
Date: 1/5/2003
Time: 11:24:07 AM
Hi Bill here. Alcoholic from Arizona. On my first anniversary my sponsor shocked me with this statement. "Bill, I want you to start thinking about where you would like to be this time next year". I braced him on that one with, "What ever happened to One day at a time, El Dicko?" He told me we stay sober one day at a time. Our lives require planning. Choosing majors. Planning class schedules, Making airline reservations, hotel reservations. Theater tickets ahead of time. He also taught me not to plan the results. I am planning on attending an online AA round up in Florida this year in October. Made it last year. Will I make it this year? I don't know. Ask me in November :) Thank you for being a part of my sobriety today, Bill, email: az-bill@mindspring.com
Member: Sharon Frey
Location: sunny Portland, Or
Date: 1/5/2003
Time: 12:27:39 PM
Sharon Frey here, One Day At a Time..Great topic. When I arrived here in AA, I could not dream of living in just One Day.. I always tried to live 20 years in the future. I was told that if One day became to great to comprehend, then cut it down to 4 cotton pickin minutes at a time. Anyone could hold out for 4 minutes.. There have been LOTS of 4 minute days in the last 24 yrs, but I am getting to the point in every area of my life that I am living in the NOW, and One Day is the rule. I'm NO saint, but this program has taught me that as long as I stay sober, I can do anything with my God's help. Thanks for letting me share. Sharon Frey, slfrey@yahoo.com
Member: Dave
Location: Madison Wisconsin
Date: 1/5/2003
Time: 1:52:53 PM
Hello, Nice going on the letter "A" Frank :>). Humor is an important part of each day. I can only do so much each day so I have to monitor myself when I start to hear "too many things to do..." starting to rattle around inside my mind. For me the old saying is meaningful: Recovery is a process not an event. Thanks for being here, Dave
Member: Cindi P.
Location: Chippewa Falls
Date: 1/5/2003
Time: 1:57:38 PM
Hi, my name is Cindi P. and I am an alcoholic, What a wonderful topic! I certainly did not begin living odaat until I came to AA. A wonderful person named Dr. Jim kept telling me to break the day down into minutes and to live just minutes at a time. That really helped because I thought I was going crazy. The thought of not drinking the rest of my life scared me tremendously, but I could do it for a few minutes and gradually for one day. The thought of not drinking dug into my mind and I couldn't think of much else. Meetings helped a lot because for and hour I thought about something else. In the 24 hour periods since I have learned to "Stay in Today" with lots of things besides not drinking. Today I live in today so that I fully enjoy the moment, like beautiful snowflakes and birds splashing themselves in the pond in my backyard, and my husband and sons, and being alive to appreciate my HP's gift of today. I still need to be reminded to keep my brain where my butt is, but I can return to that much more quickly than the early days, weeks and months of sobriety. Thanks for letting me share.
Member: Jim N
Location: Vancouver,Wa.
Date: 1/5/2003
Time: 2:54:08 PM
Hi my name is Jim and i'm a real alcoholic. All we have is a daily reprieve contingent on our spiritual condition.If we keep our spiritual house in order we can and will stay sober one day at a time by the grace of god.Because of AA my job today is to be of maximum service to my fellow alcoholics.WHAT A LIFE!
Member: Lessa E
Location: Chicago
Date: 1/5/2003
Time: 5:59:38 PM
Lessa E here, grateful recovering alcholic. Thanks, Frank, for the ODAT (and the ODAAT - *G) topics. There have been so many good comments already here, and I thank you all for them. I heard it said around the tables that "I used to spend half my time regretting the past and the other half projecting fearfully in the future. Straddling the past and the future like that I had no chance to live in today." And that about sums it up for me. I spent so much time regretting things that happened because I got drunk - events forgotten and not shown up to, nasty, abusive things said or done, making a total fool of myself, and on and on. I also spent alot of time regretting things I did not do - such as getting a masters degree, not taking a job opportunity that was a risk but might have been worthwhile because it would've interefered with my drinking. The other part of my life was spent fearfully looking into the future - at the next performance review where I was deadly sure my drinking would be mentioned. At the upcoming layoffs (I used to work in the automotive industry where layoffs are common), SURE I'd be without a job and totally convinced I had no talents. My apartment was so messy I lived in fear that the landlord would have to come in to make a repair and would end up kicking me out due to it being a pigsty. I worried about everything. Today, thanks to the program, I have a CHOICE. As one other mentioned, ODAAT does NOT mean I do not make plans. I do...but I have to leave the results to God and I have to accept them. But I can choose to savor today. I can choose to live in the moment, whether good or bad, and not run away from it like I used to with booze. I'm very grateful to have that choice today. Thanks for letting me share. lessa_e@hotmail.com
Member: Faith B
Location: Orlando, FL
Date: 1/5/2003
Time: 6:31:44 PM
Hi, everybody. I'm Faith and an alcoholic. What a great topic ODAT, especially with the new year. I am so grateful for all your sharing and for the opportunity to be an alcoholic. Before AA, I spent many days, both past and future in one! How confusing my life was and alcohol seemed to be the antidote. Today I realize, after several 24 hours, that I have a choice and can slow down anytime I choose. My program and the steps help me with that. I must say that the power of the group sharing and newcomers is an awesome demonstration of living in the present moment.
Member: linda g
Location: california
Date: 1/5/2003
Time: 7:01:34 PM
hi everyone. im linda and i am an alcoholic. i appreciate everyone putting in their words of wisdom. going through weird feelings after 12 years of sobriety. need to stay in today. getting lost in what could have been if i did SOBRIETY better and what a loser i have become for the future. doubt, fear, resentment and lots of anger inundating my being. am reminded today that god can and will if he were sought. thanks for letting me seek and find today. im grateful im alive today.
Member: Bruce N
Location: Houston Tx
Date: 1/5/2003
Time: 7:25:59 PM
Hi...I'm Bruce a very grateful to be alive alcoholic. One day at a time has kept me sane and sober going on 20 years now so there must be something to it. Am specially grateful for this tool right now as I found out Saturday that my job postition has been eliminated so am doing 20 minutes at a time right now. God didn't say I'd never get scared...He just promises to be there while I am. Thanks to a loving God, a wife of 29 years, a family who cares, friends to go to dinner with, and my group I am going to be ok although you prayers are certainly needed. Thanks and God Bless.
Member: Bruce N
Location: Houston Tx
Date: 1/5/2003
Time: 7:36:53 PM
Bruce...a very grateful to be alive alcoholic. One day at a time was the only thing that gave me any kind of serenity in the early days of sobriety. Minute by minute....hour by hour...and finally a whole day of turning my will and life over to God. Right now I'm am doing about every half hour as I was told Saturday that my job position has been eliminated. Going on 20 years of sobreity and once again I am finding out that God didn't say that I'd never be afraid...only that he'd be there when I am. I have a loving family for support, many friends, the group, and most of all a God who still controls my outcomes. So...would like alot of prayers from you guys tonight. Happy New Year and God bless each of you.
Member: Kathleen
Location: Florida
Date: 1/5/2003
Time: 8:53:43 PM
Hi everyone, great topic for me. Been struggling a bit lately and accomplishing even some of the small tasks seems impossible. If I don't keep it in the moment I can get real squirely and into fear and self pity and that will lead me to a drink. Thanks for being here for me... hope ya do make it in oct bill...:)
Member: Tom M
Location: Homosassa, FL
Date: 1/5/2003
Time: 9:42:10 PM
Hi everyone my name is Tom M. and I am a grateful, recovering alcholic. I once heard it put this way. " Yesterday is a cancelled check." "It is spent and there is nothing I can do to get it back". "Tomorrow is a promisary note." I don't have it yet so there is nothing I can do with it either." " But today is CASH, spend it wisley." Thanks for the opportunity.
Member: kimberley
Location: woodland wa.
Date: 1/5/2003
Time: 10:28:29 PM
kimberley grateful recovering alki, thanks to the program my life is so much easier one day at a time, i spent endless years future trippin, and trying to go back in time and fix everything, what a spirtual concept 24 hours a day living is its so simple!!! but i too still have problems doig it bu i keep practicing it!! thanks to all of you for your shares. have a great week
Member: Robert T.
Location: Beaverton Or.
Date: 1/5/2003
Time: 10:29:52 PM
Robert, alcoholic. Today was a good day and a successful day because I didn't pick up a drink or drug. I went to a spiritual gathering and had lunch with my sponsor. We read with other alcoholics at a treatment center. I was nice to my cat and got to hug my 4 year old grandson. I love A.A. and am glad it's only one day at a time. An old-timer told me once,"When all else fails, help another alcoholic." Then he said, "Don't forget the most important part", he added, and I said, what? And he said. "When all else fails!".
Member: Ron L.
Location: Winnipeg. Man. Can.
Date: 1/5/2003
Time: 11:02:43 PM
Ron Alcoholic. " Just 24 hours at a time" that was the message the co-founders carried to Alcoholic numbe three. Big Book pg. 188. He liked that idea, and so did I. Down through the years the message has changed......90 days and 90 meetings, if that don't work try 180 days. Some one carried the 90 day message to a friend of mine and he being a perfectionist made it to 45 days and 45 mgts. then he missed a meeting and gave it all up. I felt so sorry because he thought he was a failer and knew that he could never make 90 mgts in 90 days. he's still drunk 4 1/2 years later. ONE DAY AT A TIME. may some day save his life. Thanks for letting me share on this very important topic.
Member: Shay R
Location: Santa Cruz CA
Date: 1/6/2003
Time: 12:37:15 AM
One day at a time has really helped me with my fear. I have 15 months clean (it has taken me 13 years in and out) My life is like a dream, I could'nt want anything more. My life is full and i am very content. This is so foriegn to me so i am always waiting for the other shoe to drop, something horrible to happen that os when one day at a time helps me
Member: Ashley B
Location: Houston
Date: 1/6/2003
Time: 1:00:54 AM
Hi my name is Ashley and I am an alcoholic. Great topic. I once heard (it's a little crass, but...) if you've got one foot in yesterday and one in tomorrow, you are peeing all over today. I really related to that :) Seriously, though, one day at a time probably saved my life this past summer when I found myself leaving my abusive husband. All the things that I needed to take care of on my own seemed overwhelming. But because I did everything that I could in a single day, and focused only on that, I was able to have the courage to face that overwhelming mess, and so ODAT has saved me twice. I also want to say that I am truly grateful this meeting is here. I haven't been to a meeting in a week (sick) and today my ear drum exploded and they prescribed me pain pills. I am in fit condition to take them, and I am not worried about abusing them, but it sure is nice to go to a meeting online, that really feels like a meeting. Thank you all so much.
Member: Kelly M
Location: Snowed in , NH
Date: 1/6/2003
Time: 1:45:25 AM
Hi All, Kelly a grateful alcoholic. One day at a time is a great topic and way of life. A good day for me is a day that I don't drink. I am starting to accumulate a few 24 hours but every one I'm sober is precious. I try to keep it simple and plan each day around an AA meeting. Babysteps work for me right now. Rome was not built in a day! I have to keep my goals simple and keep the wreckage of the past in the past. Give AA my all and give my mind, body and spirit time to heal. Every day that I don't drink is a gift I give to myself. I'm sober and alive and a worthwhile person and I deserve to be good to myself. Sometimes I even say no, if it is too much for me. Being newly sober is a learning experience for sure. Some alcoholics in AA need lots of help to the point you feel like you are trying to save a drowning person and they are pulling you down and drowning you. If you let them. I'm getting to know when to back off and worry about me first. I can only save myself and can try to help others when I can. My day can be whatever I make it but most importantly I want to stay sober today.
Member: Melanie F.
Location: Akron, OH
Date: 1/6/2003
Time: 2:24:21 AM
Hi, I'm Melanie an alcoholic. I haven't been to a meeting in 6 months. I'm still sober and just started back on antidepressants I stopped 2 years ago. I barely made it sane and sober through the holidays. I really crashed big time. Worried about everything and everybody with an endless loop of fear and negativity running through my head, especially at night. It has been a terrifying year.(worry,WORRY, WORRY!!!)......I had everything typed out to share, but it was just "Blah, blah, blah! Poor me, Poor me, Pour me a drink!!" Thanks for reminding me to stay in today. Today, I'm sober, this cyber meeting is a step in the right direction and God will take care of the rest with or without me.
Member: Landscape Ray
Location: Scotland
Date: 1/6/2003
Time: 4:28:20 AM
im praying for you Bruce, Robert the Bruce had a similar problem but he tried and tried again trust in god and things will be ok Bruce lots of love from bonnie scotland , got to visit the doc to-day right ear blocked this flu is getting me down got to do something about it into action lol take care ,
Member: Kenny R
Location: Kansas
Date: 1/6/2003
Time: 5:27:15 AM
Names Kenny addict alcoholic- I do agree that we stay sober one day at a time, but life requires planing. The main thing to remember is not to worry about the outcome. Just do your part and let God take care of how it turns out
Member: Jess K.
Location: Virgina
Date: 1/6/2003
Time: 9:17:30 AM
Hi, my name is Jess, an alcoholic. It has been good to read what everyone has shared. It looks like two people started a topic ODAAT, and fear, or fear of choice. Thats what I am hearing, and low and behold they fit so well together. So timely too. Imagine that. ;0) I can get so caught up in my head about what the future may hold. What a blessing it is to be with others that think and feel similarly. If you are reading this, you are making this 24 hours easier for me. As funny as that sounds.... Thanks,
Member: AnilG
Location: MtVernon,IL
Date: 1/6/2003
Time: 9:38:26 AM
I am an alcoholic one day at a time keeps my life day to day disicion very simple and easy to handle. my life was unmanagable while I was drinking disicion were very difficult to make due to impairment but now they are very easy to deal with one of the tools I have in my box is to say to myself "day at a time" and hr at at a time life goes on slowly but surely. thanks to aa and alanonl.
Member: Craig L (Dogmanor@yahoo.com)
Location: Aloha, Oregon
Date: 1/6/2003
Time: 10:50:12 AM
Before I found AA, I believed I had so much power that I could worry my will onto the world. When things went my way it was because of my will power, if they went another way I was a victim or I ignored that outcome totally. I also spent hours re-hashing conversations or encounters from the past. Replaying things the way I wish they had gone, the replay usually had me in a position of great power where I could not be disputed. The drugs and alcohol fueled this fantasy life. When I first came to AA I thought One Day at a Time was only about not drinking or using for a day. Today, it helps me stay right sized. Every time my serenity is disrupted it is often because I am dwelling on the past or future. I agree I should make reasonable plans, but I need to remain open minded to the present. This is one of those sayings I thought was just mindless drivel when I first came in the rooms. Today it is a mainstay of my peace.
Member: Robert H
Location: Columbus, OH
Date: 1/6/2003
Time: 12:15:08 PM
Robert, alcoholic. Just wanted to add that for me, without one day a time, I would feel to overwhelmed. The though of never drinking it scary, frustrating, and intimidating. But knowing I just need to stay sober from when I wake up, until I go to sleep seems acheivable. www.alcoholrecovery.net
Member: Dottie
Location: midwest
Date: 1/6/2003
Time: 1:48:03 PM
Hi ya! I’m an alcoholic & a Texas gal, who wears a ten gallon hat on an unusually small head. I’m sure if you’re visual, you know what I see…tan leather! I can turn my hat around so that I am looking at the back of it and there I see a label saying the size of my hat and who made it. Not much of a view, huh? But don’t be disgruntled for when I look down, I see all kinds of things. Little brown eyes looking up at me with a broad smile and a pink tongue dangling. A recluse spider moving methodically from point A to point B hoping not to get captured and made to go swimming in the White China God. Tiny white flowers moving gently in the breeze. Words written by wise folk sharing what worked for them and promising me that it will work for me too, if I apply. I am blind to what tomorrow will bring, and yesterday I cannot erase the mistakes I made. I only have this moment, this day; and what a day it is! (huge grin)
Member: KathleenN
Location: Floral city, Florida
Date: 1/6/2003
Time: 4:53:54 PM
Sorry to double dip, just wanted to say I'm thrilled to see people in here close to where I live... Tom in homosassas...I'm in Floral city....small world... :)
Member: KathleenN
Location: Floral city, Florida
Date: 1/6/2003
Time: 4:55:42 PM
Sorry to double dip, just wanted to say I'm thrilled to see people in here close to where I live... Tom in homosassas...I'm in Floral city....small world... :)
Member: Susan A.
Location: Vernon, CT
Date: 1/6/2003
Time: 5:10:32 PM
Hi, I'm Susan, and I'm an Alcoholic. I'm so glad to find this meeting today. One Day at a Time is JUST what the Dr ordered. I like the reminder that, for me too, it used to be "just don't DRINK one day (or 1 minute) at a time". I don't EVER want to go back there again. What's that saying, about "I'm not the woman I'm going to be, and I'm not even the woman I want to be, but thank God I'm not the woman I was". Thanks. I got caught up lately in planning the results, worrying about what you thought of me, being perfect, all that good stuff. My serenity went out the window, and in just a couple weeks of not talking to other alkies or God very much, I was feeling on the outside again, different, alone, angry and afraid. My sponsor helped me to put my sobriety first again, and think about my spiritual condition, and "What ACTION am I doing today to stay Sober". I'm really glad to be reminded about how self-centered and selfish I can be again, whenever I put down the tools I know work. She reminded me also, that what works for me is to "Do do the things I don't Want to do, and Don't do the things I DO want to do". It's SO much easier to let God run the show, to get back IN the fellowship of AA, let the steps of the program WORK me, and to be grateful and joyful about being sober. One Day at a Time...It really is the easier, softer way. Thank you for being here and reaching out to others.
Member: Stacy
Location: US
Date: 1/6/2003
Time: 6:06:03 PM
Member: Jackie W
Location: Winnipeg, Canada
Date: 1/6/2003
Time: 9:11:19 PM
Hello All, Jackie here and I am definitely and alcoholic. If you were given $86,400.00 every day and told you had to spend it or lose it what would you do? Would you worry about how you should have spent it yesterday and lose what you have today? Would you worry about what you were going to do with it tomorrow and lose the money you were given today? God gives us 86,400 seconds to use every day. I have a choice. I can worry about yesterday, fret about tomorrow or live today to the fullest. Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery and today is a GIFT. That's why it's called the PRESENT. To those that are celebrating, congratulations. To those that are suffering, hang in there. Thank you for helping me stay sober today.
Member: Ozzie
Location: UK
Date: 1/7/2003
Time: 10:26:56 AM
Hi Jackie - your story about 86400 seconds in a day and how to spend it was related to me by a Maori sailor in New Zealand before we went out on a whale watching trip - it's a small world! Living for today is what it's at - I have learnt that if I don't project into the future there is much less pressure on me. Similarly looking over ones shoulder to the past is an unfulfilling pastime - except in the reflection of the day when I examine my behaviour with my Higher Power anddecide if I need to make amends.
Member: Margaret B.
Location: Phoenixville Pa.
Date: 1/7/2003
Time: 11:01:22 AM
Hi, I am new here. My name is Margaret B-addict/alcoholic. I normally am quiet when I attend meeting-I am kinda shy. It is much easier on-line. Anyway, I try to live in the here and now, yet lately am worrying incessently about the future. I find myself worried about the end of this month as I return to school after years of being out. This is something I have fought to do, wanted so badly,yet now I am so scared and unsure of myself and my abilities. I guess it is fear of the unknown as well. It is unfamiliar territory. I will be attending classes on-line. I also have a courtcase scheduled on the 14th where I am the [petitioner]and it is a case that has been on-going for 16 months now-it happened 4 years ago. This is not a very good month for me....
Member: vickie moyer
Location: wabash in.
Date: 1/7/2003
Time: 12:44:06 PM
hi, im vickie alcoholic. this my first time here and i have enjoyed the topic. ive been aa 22 yrs i had 16 yrs in this program and living in the past mostly and future i started drinking again and went to tx. today i have almost 5 yrs again and i try to stay focused on one day at a time.im also lucky i have a sponsor i see almost daily. thanks for letting me shsre
Member: Marv L
Location: Laurel,Ms
Date: 1/7/2003
Time: 1:41:17 PM
Hi,Marv L,alcoholic.SO many good things said for living ODAAT,thanks for letting me SEE em in black and white,because I still wander around sometimes in the woods of yesterday and tomorrow,and fail to value my GIFT of sobriety for today.I agree with Ron L about avoiding rigid rules.Timetables dont get or keep us sober,yeah,one program,but millions of us work it differently!(Dr.Bob worked the ninth step right after his last drunk!page 179,BB) I have a buddy thirty years sober who summarizes his program"Im so glad AA taught me about how to avoid drinking,the same way my grandaddy taught me you dont go bear-hunting with a buggy-whip!"Thank God for the tools we have that work!And for your shared e.s & h.for our gift of another precious sober day! Love ya ALL!!
Member: Brian F
Location: Berwickshire, Scotland
Date: 1/7/2003
Time: 3:08:32 PM
Hi, my name is Brian, and I'm an alcoholic, Thanks for the topic Frank, and for all the comments. I'm sure that as a young child I became too frightened to live in the present. I created a fantasy world, that became real for me. Booze allowed me to continue in that unreal, real world for another 20 years. When I heard people at meetings saying "one day at a time", I copied them. I added "today" onto all my shares!! I remember after about a year, my sponsor said "You are more spiritual then me today, Brian". I thought great! I've done in a year what took him 18!! I hadn't heard, nor was I living, TODAY. It has taken a long time for me to begin to understand ODAAT. Like it has been said already, I lived in fear of what had( or I thought had) happened, or in dread of what I imagined was going to happen. I had to clear the wreakage of the past, see it for what it REALLY was, before I could live in the present. That is now happening, not all the time, but as I was told, "you can start another 24 hours anytime, Brian" I still have to break these periods down into managable chunks, as I learn to live with the peace I have, but I do tend to plan more than I project these days, one at a time!!as I replace fear with faith. And get into action. Thanks for being there Brian@finnie0696.freeserve.co.uk
Member: Louis LG
Location: Ottawa,Canada
Date: 1/7/2003
Time: 3:09:47 PM
Louis,alkie.Thank you for all your sharings.I was so far in the futur that i was falling backward's in my sobriety.K.C.B.
Member: Leann Q.
Location: Ft. White, FL
Date: 1/7/2003
Time: 6:52:05 PM
Hi, I'm Leann and I'm an alcoholic. This is my 1st time sharing in an online AA club. ODAAT is appropiate for this as i felt that I needed to work on my sobriety TODAY and I can't get to a face to face meeting. I know that meeting makers make it, sooooooooooooooooo............ I'm glad I found found this sight, stay sober and God bless.
Member: Hamish
Location: Sydney Australia
Date: 1/8/2003
Time: 6:57:59 AM
Hello family My names Hamish and I'm an alcoholic. I finally just worked out what ODAAT stands for! (one day at a time)One day at a time was the second thing I got into my brain in my early recovery. The first thing was that I accepted deep down in my heart that I was an alcoholic. I know today that I always will be an alcoholic. I'm very grateful to AA - with AA in my life I have a chance. AA is a programme of recovery and AA is an ACTION PROGRAMME about LIVING. Now that I have accepted that I'm an alcoholic I get to apply the good stuff of one day at a time which helps relieves anxiety and KEEPS ME IN THE NOW etc. Throw in the reminder to myself that my way didn't work and hand my life over to God and things tend to work out quite well. Don't pick up the first drink, one day at a time, and keep coming back!These are the sayings that have saved my life. AA works ODAAT!
Member: robin
Location: delaware
Date: 1/8/2003
Time: 9:31:30 AM
good morning everyone.....i celebrated my 1st month yesterday of total sobriety...i've been trying to grasp this idea of one day at a time...it really works....
Member: Steve R
Location: Georgetown, Delaware, US
Date: 1/8/2003
Time: 10:12:55 AM
Hi Steve here, alcoholic. I very much appreciate all the posts this week. I needed to read them. I've been sober eighteen months and was beginning to get a bit complacent. I lost my company about eight months ago and have been worrying about what I'm going to do to make as much money as I did before. I need to stop worrying about tomorrow. For that matter I should try not to worry about today. As I've learned in the program, I am powerless over nearly everything in my life. My best approach for today is to suit up, show up, and do the next right thing. I must believe that God will take care of the outcome. If I continue to do the next right thing and work the steps TODAY in all my affairs, tomorrow will be better. I have tremendous hope, where before I had only despair and hopelessness. God Bless.
Member: vickie m
Location: wabash,in
Date: 1/8/2003
Time: 11:14:31 AM
hi everyone i'm an alcoholic. i came back here today as i need some contact with other alcoholics. i work the night shift mtgs are limited in my small town.i am currently preparing to do my 2nd step i try to work my steps in all my affairs today. aa has given me a new outlook on life. i just don;t drink.have a safe sober day.
Member: Beto L
Location: Tampico, Mexico
Date: 1/8/2003
Time: 8:09:12 PM
One Day at a Time sure saved my rear end in early sobriety. I had been trying to "swear off" drinking for a few years before I hit AA, but I wouls always think,"If I'm never going to have another drink, I might as well have one last beer." AA taught me not to swear off forever. Maybe I'll drink tomorrow. I certainly have the right. Just for today, though, the next 24 hours starting now, I'm going to stay sober. Those todays have piled up into more sober time than I could even imagine, when drinking, and I still might drink tomorrow. thanks, Beto
Member: michael nicholson
Location: 4 seasons grp. Sackville n.s.
Date: 1/9/2003
Time: 9:05:59 AM
Hi... thanks for one day at a time, when I drank I lived in tomorrow and when I got sober I lived in the past but today I live one day at a time,because that is what you pepole have tought me one day at a time,thans for your time .
Member: Janet L
Location: Costa Rica
Date: 1/9/2003
Time: 9:10:21 AM
Hi, Janet, alcoholic with 14 days;. for me it's one minute at a time, so those seconds you mentioned seem way out there!!! But, by the grace of God, the compulsion seems to have left me. Yes, I still find myself opening the fridge for a beer, and then I lol. So Im in the mental stage, I suppose. I don't know what I'm doing, but I am not drinking today, so that makes me a winner , right/?? ((AZBill)) loved your post, and you again {{lessa)). I'm in and out and spacey as all get out but I have jumped into this AA thing with both feet. I WANT WHAT YOU GUYS HAVE!!! And I am going to listen and work hard to get it. love to you all, isolated janet in Monteverde, Costa Rica.
Member: KIMV
Location: Mars Hill, NC
Date: 1/9/2003
Time: 9:52:29 AM
Kim V Alcoholic. I once heard someone say at a meeting that they were doing the steps waiting for the fear to disappear and it didn't and I really related to that. the fear doesn't completely go away. It lessens to the point where I can function because I am no longer totally overwhelmed by it. What did I fear. Everything and anything. I found most of all i worried and projected about yesterday and tomorrow and most always the fear was about having to FEEL ANXIETY. What a terrible feeling, even while drinking, let alone learning to deal with it sober. Do you know whay I found out? Anxiety only makes you feel like it is going to kill you. Nobody I know has died from it. It also really screws up my spiritual connection with my higher power. So the slogan "This too shall pass", is so true, because if I just allow myself to feel the anxiety instead of fighting not to feel it, it passes much more quickly, and all is well. But staying in today helps avoid the anxiety in the first place, unless the anxiety is in the moment. Thanks for letting me share as this was my first on line meeting.
Member: Leland
Location: Santa Barbara
Date: 1/9/2003
Time: 11:12:15 AM
Leland, alcoholic. One day at a time means to me that I have only today to work my program. Next week will be 10 years of continuous sobriety. What I know is that each day I need to do something for it. The choices are simple, they are the same suggestions made in my first 90 days: meetings, read the BB, work the steps, H&I, etc etc. ODAT means I can have a chance today and today only. Nothing I did yesterday or anything I can do tomorrow will keep me sober today. Also, I can relate to AZBill, my sponsor when I was 3 yrs sober said, "You and I are lifers here." I was struck with such panic! What did he mean, this man who professes ODAT and all that I described above was talking about being sober for life. After a moment of my being completely shocked he said, "This is the last house on the last street. There is no where else for guys like you and I." Indeed, this is so true. That moment was a huge step 3 for me. I know this is the solution. And LINDA (w/12yrs) if you feel like it wasn't a perfect 12 yrs, I've only two things to say: 1) did ya drink? 2) every day or any moment I can recommit by working 1-2-3, we are not perfect nor saints (remember.) Take it easy on yourself damnit!
Member: Casey C
Location: Minneapolis, MN
Date: 1/9/2003
Time: 3:40:41 PM
Hi I'm Casey an I'm an alcholic and an addict. The way that I look at one day at a time is to do all I can for that day. A little saying I heard in which I think of often is "If you've got one leg in yesterday, and one leg in tomorrow, your pissing all over today." Therefore I do my best to stay in the moment.
Member: Casey C
Location: Minneapolis, MN
Date: 1/9/2003
Time: 3:40:55 PM
Hi I'm Casey an I'm an alcholic and an addict. The way that I look at one day at a time is to do all I can for that day. A little saying I heard in which I think of often is "If you've got one leg in yesterday, and one leg in tomorrow, your pissing all over today." Therefore I do my best to stay in the moment.
Member: Jeanne P.
Location: Kansas City
Date: 1/9/2003
Time: 4:53:11 PM
Hi I'm jeanne and I'm an Alcoholic. This is my first time to this meeting or an online meeting at that. I am delighted to find this group on-line. I regularly attend a noon meeting, did today, but for some reason cannott seem to shake this melancholy I am feeling. I rationalize that it could be hormones(I'm 6 mos pregnant), it could be the short days and lack of light, it could be the lack of company in the office where I typically am alone(salespeople come & go). Could be that I am worried about what my boyfriend is or isn't gonna do (i.e. will he call? will he stop by? will he pay his child support on time?) Could be that I'm obssessing about something which I have no control over...Hmmm. So I just need to focus on the task at hand~Today & my actions. No matter what happens I will get upp tomorrow and it will be a new day.I had an old sponser tell me "just suiting up & showing up is 90% of it. So I think I'll shut up. I realize how important it is to get these things off your chest.I also see how trivial they seem when I actually put them on "paper" it puts them into perspective.
Member: Cindy B
Location: Michigan
Date: 1/9/2003
Time: 5:49:45 PM
Hi I just found your meeting board. I am a 45 yr. old women and have beed drinking for 5 months again after 23 yrs of sobriety. So for you people in this message board I am a new person. Im trying to get myself to go to AA in my town but I just can not get myself to go yet. I need to quit drinking, but a big part of me still wants to. I like being druck. I have many fears of quiting because life was like hell with out drinking. I really do feel better but alochol is very hard on the body. I am very lonely and have very few friends that can help and support me. I can not continue. People tell me its a choice. Is it?? Cindy B From Michigan
Member: Dan S
Location: Vancouver,Wa
Date: 1/9/2003
Time: 5:57:38 PM
Hi I am Dan an alcoholic....... this is my first time here.....just listening(reading) for now
Member: susan c
Location: dracut mass
Date: 1/9/2003
Time: 6:00:58 PM
i feel one day at a time is the best way to live also keeping it simple helps
Member: Dan S
Location: Vancouver
Date: 1/9/2003
Time: 6:02:22 PM
1440 minutes, the same for each of us....... Dan of Vancouver
Member: Dan S
Location: Vancouver
Date: 1/9/2003
Time: 7:04:07 PM
About time for me to leave for today.....best wishes to all.....Dan
Member: Rachel K.
Location: Huntington Beach , CA
Date: 1/10/2003
Time: 12:25:29 AM
HI, Rachel K. , Alcoholic. Thank God for AA! First time here. Tahnks! Will be back again!
Member: Val D
Location: Midwest
Date: 1/10/2003
Time: 3:12:19 AM
I am new here... and not trying to crash the party. I am one that drinks because I am bored, it's just something to do when my wife and child have gone to bed. I have recognized the destructive behavior and want to do something about it.... but can't seem to get a handle on it... and REALLY don't get the idea of total surrender. When I surrender to my addiction I get stupid...... I want to be alive for my child, I want my career to progress, and I want to find a way to get my life on track.... can anyone give me some advice on how to combat the early evening boredom? That is my fatal moment. Thanks Val
Member: Landscape Ray
Location: Scotland
Date: 1/10/2003
Time: 4:41:19 AM
Hi Val go to meetings . ray
Member: Landscape Ray
Location: Scotland
Date: 1/10/2003
Time: 4:47:15 AM
Hi Cindy one choice Cindy dont drink go to meetings, after 23 sobriety you must have made some friends? ((())) Ray
Member: Landscape Ray
Location: Scotland
Date: 1/10/2003
Time: 4:50:06 AM
WELCOME Jeanne your doing well ((())) Ray
Member: Tom O
Location: Brockton, MA.
Date: 1/10/2003
Time: 5:12:54 AM
Val D. Welcome aboard! Yes, as Ray states "go to Meetings-Daily and more if you have the time. You are surrendering to the fact that you canot drink and when you do, you life becomes unmanageable! If this is so, whats the real problam? Have you had enough? Time to get honest with youself! I'll bet your wife could REALLY tell us. Please give you wife and kids the best gift they ever received "A sober You". I am now sober through the Grace of God,thirty seven years. Please join us, even "Bored Alcoholics" can stay sober with A.A.!
Member: JeanneP.
Location: Kansas City
Date: 1/10/2003
Time: 10:23:03 AM
Hi I'm Jeanne & I'm an alcoholic. Ashley B. in Houston, I just re-read what you wrote yesterday re: leaving an abusive relationship. I made the decision to break up w/ my emotionally/verbally/sometimes physically abusive boyfriend after catching him in yet another lie. We have a 14 mos. old daughter together and a son due in mid-May. We do not live together which I am very grateful for, however I vaccilate between relief and fear of the future/unknown. I'm trying to stick to "One Day at a Time", but the minutes seem like hours- I am so sad. Please tell me how you did it. You can e-mail me (jprice@contactusnow.com) if you feel like it.
Member: Bill P.
Location: Michigan
Date: 1/10/2003
Time: 10:39:17 AM
Hi ((Rachel K))! Welcome! This site has much to offer anyone who wants recovery. It's no replacement for face-to-face meetings, but has helped me with a lot of feelings I've had in early recovery. Keep coming back. It works. ((Val)) - I also did most of my destructive drinking in the hours from 6:00 to 1:00 AM. My only advice is to find a meeting to attend in the evening. There will be people there just like you. Thanks for coming and keep coming back! Peace. Bill
Member: Jen B.
Location: California
Date: 1/10/2003
Time: 11:18:07 AM
Hi, I'm Jen, alcoholic. I needed to read all of your words this morning. Such a relief to remember I don't have to project and fret, can just be in today and focus on what's right in front of me. I liked what Hamish said about AA being a program of recovery and Action being the program of life. I have trouble with the action part, as though being sober should be all that's expected of me. My eskimo has called this "don't they know who I am?" syndrome. LOL Again I am reminded of the insanity of doing the same thing and expecting different results. Just for today, this 24 hours, I can commit to action and the next right thing. All these platitudes that in the beginning were just words become such tools, such friends, to yank me through the next 24. Cindy, of course you know it's a choice, and it's yours to make: I can relate to where you're at. Some days I feel like nothing's really changed for me except that I can feel the miserable reality of my situation - conversely, I can feel the serenity and contentedness and peace that escaped me when I was drinking. Back to my first paragraph - as long as I avoid action, nothing will change for me. Thanks for your shares, they really hit home today. Peace.
Member: Sue C
Location: Kansas City
Date: 1/10/2003
Time: 4:14:30 PM
Hi all. this is my first online meeting. need to hear about fear and how you keep it at bay in the real world. I have faith that if i stay sober today, God will take care of me and things will work out as they should. I just forget that simple concept every 15 minutes and have to re-learn it. I had many yrs of sobriety and went back out for several years. Yes, IT GOT WORSE. I lost everything and am now facing prison time for a serious accident i caused while drinking. was supposed to go yesterday, but will go next thursday. I am scared to death. I have almost 6 mos sobriety now and i attend mtgs but i am so shy that i barely look at people or talk to them. Prison scares me and I don't know people who have gone. I am not street-smart. I am a typical 'suburbanite' and this will be a whole new world for me. Everything happens for a reason, right? Today I am living one minute at a time. I just got a sponsor last night and i am meeting with her later, so i'll be okay. thanks for listening.
Member: David M
Location: UK
Date: 1/10/2003
Time: 4:51:16 PM
Living just for today certainly makes life a simpler place to be. It doesn`t mean I can`t plan my life or look forward to special events. It means that I need to keep my emotions in today and not project on the outcomes ahead - usually my God comes up with the right outcome despite me anyway. First time at an online meeting. David M
Member: Rachel K.
Location: Huntington Beach , CA
Date: 1/10/2003
Time: 5:24:54 PM
HI, I am Rachel and am a very grateful (for taday) alcoholic. Thanks for the welcome Bill P. of Michigan. Oh, Sue C. I have been down that road and was sober 2 1/2 years when I had to go to Prison. If you need to talk, e-mail me at rknutson@socal.rr.com. I didn't understand why I had to go to Prison, after all, I was sober, going to meetings, working the phone lines and trying to do the right thing..but I did. Acceptance is the only thing that helped and I had to go there ALOT! It was tough, but God has a reason for everything that happens. If we doubt Him, then we are saying we know better than God. It is easier said than done and it will be hard, but know the answers are always the same: GOD and the steps. Jen B. you hit the nail on the head and described my life at this moment! Thanks I really needed to hear that! I always seem to recover for a minute and then stop. When a look up everything is chaotic again. I always bump right back into myself! Insanity, it really is!! I am the type of alcoholic where if I don't wake up praying and reading out of the BB, pray throughout the day and again at night, I take over and I think up LOTS of crazy stuff. This program works if I work it and it is hard. So much of the time I like to think I can handle it, "OK, God, I've got it!". NO WAY! Thank God for AA! Thanks for letting me share!
Member: henri d
Location:
Date: 1/10/2003
Time: 6:54:11 PM
Bonjour, mi amis. I have enjoyed your comments. However, I have noticed a continuing problem in the years that I have gone to meetings - that of the practice of pseudo sobriety. At the group I attend most often, less than half of the regular members are actually clean and sober. Several have quite severe and active addictions to opiates (pain pills). The majority of the others with pseudo sobriety are heavy smokers (2-4 packs per day). We have had several members die from smoking related illness lately, but these folks keep right on smoking, all the while proclaiming that they are "clean and sober." They refuse to acknowledge that they are still addicts. They have just substituted their addiction to alcohol with an equally deadly addiction. Any thoughts on how to get through to these otherwise fine ladies and gentlement? Merci beaucoup.
Member: Anonymous
Location:
Date: 1/10/2003
Time: 7:26:05 PM
Don't know too much about pain killers or smoking MY primary purpose is to stay sober
Member: ken c
Location: garland
Date: 1/10/2003
Time: 9:01:23 PM
Well put. My primary purpose is also to stay sober. I don't understand those who come to A.A. and still smoke and do other drugs. If they're not drinking, at least they're sober. That's halfway to clean and sober!
Member: marco
Location: texas
Date: 1/10/2003
Time: 9:54:54 PM
Hello, Sue. After reading your post, I prayed that you may find peace. I hope that things work out for you. You said you are facing prison time. I do not know the facts of your case, of course, but if you have not been adjudicated yet, and you have no serious prior record, you may be eligible for probation. If you have already been sentenced, I pray that you find peace in your heart. I believe that God has already answered you, at least in part, as I see that Rachel responded to your post and invited you to talk to her directly. God Bless You, Rachel. And God Bless You and Be With You, Sue. I will pray again for you tonight.
Member: mlm
Location: Ohio
Date: 1/11/2003
Time: 12:39:04 AM
Thanks to all. Henri, I'm sober 6 years (odaat), tobacco free 4 months (odaat),no pill problem. But I still drink tea and coffee. I take prescriptive antidepressants to keep me out of the loony bin. Where do you suggest we draw the line? We are ALCOHOLics anonymous. I have enough to do to worry about my own inventory, don't you? Pray for the sick, love each imperfect soul and work on you. God has the rest of the world. Love and blessings to all who were able to be with us one more day. More love and more blessings to those who were not.
Member: Marvin B.
Location: Kentucky
Date: 1/11/2003
Time: 1:26:46 AM
I see several comments on planning being a necessity of life, and I totally agree. But through this thing we develop in AA called "self awareness", we learn to sense when we have crossed "the God line" and are becoming involved in things beyond our control (e.g., Serenity Prayer). Above all, as the program points out, we should live EMOTIONALLY in today. Have a good day today.
Member: AZbill
Location: From AZbill
Date: 1/11/2003
Time: 1:27:19 AM
Lest we Forget:.... Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. The only requirement is a desire to stop drinking. There are no dues or fees for AA membership; we are self supporting through our own contributions. AA is not allied with any sect, denomination, politics, organization or institution; does not wish to engage in any controversy, neither endorses nor opposes any causes. Our primary purpose is to stay sober and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety. This is what AA is, no more no less. Any Questions? :) Thumper AZ.. az-bill@mindspring.com
Member: Jeff B
Location: N. Cal
Date: 1/11/2003
Time: 2:45:57 AM
Hi, My name is Jeff and I am an alcoholic. My favorite one day at a time thing is at the front of the 24 book : Look to this day, For it is life, The very life of life. In its brief course lie all The realities and verities of existence, The bliss of growth, The glory of action, The splendor of beauty, For yesterday is but a dream And tomorrow is only a vision But today, well lived, Makes every yesterday a dream of happiness And every tomorrow a vision of hope. Look well therefore to this day. Such is the Salutation to the Dawn. As you guys have said above it all starts for me not drinking one day at a time. Some days seem really great and others are not so much. If I don't drink today I have a chance - if I take the steps in the book and go to meetings my life changes (mostly for the better) and the days build up ........one day at a time. It's been over 5 years since I have had to drink and I thank God and AA for keeping me sober- not me (I have tried to do it myself in the past). Thanks everyone for being here.
Member: Scott K.
Location: Rochester, NY
Date: 1/11/2003
Time: 5:34:40 AM
Hi, My name is Scott and I'm an Alcoholic. ODAAT: So far I have 10months, 21days clean and sober, all taken one day at a time. It started right here at staying cyber. I came here before I was too chicken to go F2F. Now I have a home group, a sponsor and I'm working the steps. One day at a time has worked well for me but also having someone to talk to, going to meetings and working steps is keeping me going. This is my first time in the rooms and at 54, I can't afford to go back out so ODAAT I'm here to stay. Thank you for listening but mostly, thank you all for sharing. ((AA))
Member: Landscape Ray
Location: Scotland
Date: 1/11/2003
Time: 6:26:08 AM
Good on you Scott your doing well,i stopped smoking 15 years ago i made a choice i was doing weights and smoking never helped so i still go to meets were people smoke big deal they are there for for their drink problems, as Az Bill says the only requirement! it stops there! if you dont like smoking find a non smoking non pill taking meeting we have enough problems being Alkies take care RAY
Member: Joy S.
Location: Chas. SC
Date: 1/11/2003
Time: 8:37:35 AM
to Janet L.God knows we have all been there!This program works and everyone starts with one day at a time.You CAN have what we have and its free! Just odaat has turned into 24 mnths for me (it still blows me away) and I thank God every day for AA and all of you. One day at a time I still am working on my defects which sometimes threaten to kick my ass. Every day I have to tell myself that I AM good enough and it's my disease that wants me to feel like I need it-insecurity, fear and alcohol.Being sober, doing the steps- not only do I feel better- I am better! This is the first cyber site I've been in and I am getting alot out of it. Am so glad to find you guys! My home group is in a bad area of town so alot of night meetings are out for me as I ride my bike. Henri, stay on track, it's not easy to get sober and those others could probably use your support.Cindy B- Please come back and ask for help if you need it. As for those talking about abusive relationships- your life will never get better with a psycho in charge, run like hell. Thank you to AZBill and Landscape Ray. It's so wonderful to know this site is here 24/7! Thank you all, God Bless.
Member: Mike H
Location: Yuma AZ
Date: 1/11/2003
Time: 9:22:38 AM
Mike, alcoholic. Thanks for all the ESH. Powerful stuff! I'm reminded that alcohol was but a symptom of my diease - that lack of power (living life)was my real dilemma. Thanks to the program and fellowship of AA I have ben given a plan for living and a way to tap into a Power greater than myself.For me, God is only in the Present moment - and to paraphrase AZ Bill "We can plan the fishing trip, but we should avoid planning the fish fry." Thanks to all of you, especially the newcomers, who are the lifeblood of AA. It works, it really does.
Member: Kim V
Location: Mars Hill, NC
Date: 1/11/2003
Time: 12:02:26 PM
Kim here, alcoholic. Sue from kansa. I too had to go to prison for 5 years. I also had to leave my daughter behind. I sawy her once after doing 3 of those five years. thats when I learned what gratitude was. I got clean and sober just 6 weeks before I went in (I had 2 years in the program before this last relapse) and I soon relalized that nobody else in there wanted to get better. But working the steps, finding AA people and a sponsor to write to me, reading my Big book and going to the only meeting they had once a week, got me through it. I have been out 21/2 years now. I have my daughter back, a job, I just bought a house, I am a care taker to my 100 year old grandmother which is wonderful for me as I am able to make amends to her. It was hard but well worth it and all I had to do was "come to believe that a higher power could restore me to sanity". You may not have to go to prison if there was no death in the accident. I will pray for you. If you need to talk. eamil me at. kvaughn@madison.main.nc.us Still Poweless Kim V
Member: Eve Mulac
Location: Wisconsin
Date: 1/11/2003
Time: 2:11:54 PM
hi im Eve a recovering alcohalic, as far as on day at a time when i came into the program i could see no future and was stuck in the past.. Now with nearly 4 years sobriety i am thankful to say i know ill be sober today i am no longer in the past and i can dream of a brigther tomorrow. Dont look behind, dont look ahead, live in the moment, the right here and now. thanx
Member: joe s.
Location: Michigan Rez dog
Date: 1/11/2003
Time: 5:01:49 PM
my name is joe and i'm an alcoholic. i'm grateful for this program of adult supervision. my Elder reminds me "we are spiritual beings having a human experience". with a spirituality second to none, no greater than or no less than, we are all children of the Creator and all have the same 24 hours. the five minutes before the miracle happens for this alcoholic is when i remember teachings like that. i never had it so good. stay sober and stay cyber (thanks for chairing, frank)!
Member: JIM A
Location: COLUMBUS MS.
Date: 1/11/2003
Time: 6:15:57 PM
hi i JIM AN ALCOHOLICS THIS IS MY FIRST TIME TO VISIT AA ON LINE I HAVE REALLY ENJOYED READING ALL THE COMMENTS LOOK FORWARD TO MORE VISITS.
Member: henri d
Location:
Date: 1/11/2003
Time: 6:59:35 PM
Bonjour, mi amis. Henri, here, alcoholic. Thanks for your thoughts about the smoking and other drug problems at our group. We have had four members die from smoking related illness in the past several months. I was just looking for some advice on helping those who are still feeding their addictions so that more will not follow the same fate. I know this is Alcoholics (emphasis) Anonymous, but I thought our goal was to get clean and sober. I assumed that continuing to engage in other self-destructive addictions (heroin, cocaine, nicotine, etc.) defeats the purpose. I find little comfort in one freeing themself from alcohol just to die from another drug addiction. Maybe I should just follow Landscape Ray's advice and turn my back on them and go to a clean and sober group. But I always thought we were supposed to help the still suffering alcoholic, whether he or she was suffering from alcohol addiction, or another drug addiction, or another of life's crises. It appears that I was mistaken. Thanks again for your comments.
Member: AZbill
Location: From AZbill
Date: 1/11/2003
Time: 7:44:43 PM
Henri.. I think I understand where you are coming from give me a holler. I may be able to clear it up... az-bill@mindspring.com
Member: Denise S
Location: Saskatchewan
Date: 1/11/2003
Time: 11:53:53 PM
Wow great to read all this stuff - too cold to wander out to a meeting tonite so this has been a great substitute - I have found that the more I can live one day at a time the better my life is - when I forget then my life goes to hell in handbasket in a big hurry - so great topic to focus on this is my first time here and it was great look forward to visiting in the future
Member: mlm
Location: Ohio
Date: 1/12/2003
Time: 1:14:15 AM
Hi again Henri. I understand more now. Those who chose to smoke and died certainly knew the risks. These people died sober in their hearts and spirits. Those who attend AA meetings while using mind altering illegal drugs should be regarded (in my opinion) as those who attend meetings drunk. If the person wants what we have and is willing to go to any lengths, it's 12th step time. If not, we (and our NA friends) will be here when they are ready. The poor lost souls I meet help to remind me where I came from and where I'm headed if I don't do something every day to stay spiritually fit and not take that first drink. Your concern for others and desire to be of service are evident. Help those you can, but don't go down with a sinking ship. Blessings to all.
Member: Kelly M
Location: NH
Date: 1/12/2003
Time: 2:05:19 AM
Bonjour Henri, Kelly a grateful alcoholic. I agree with the above responses to your plight. AA is a program to help alcoholics recover from alcoholism. I am a smoker and attend Nicotine Anonymous. I have quit before and would like to again. My sponsor says no major changes in the first year, quitting smoking as one of them. I still benefit from the meetings which are based on the 12 steps. They offer free literature at their web site. In my limited experience in AA I have learned that many of us are dual addicted. Some addicts prefer AA meetings to Narcotics Anonymous meetings and some alcoholics attend NA meetings. Some both. There are also meetings for sex addicts, Gamblers Anonymous and Overeaters anonymous etc. They are all 12 step programs that help people overcome their addictions. If you really want to help people in AA then look for the comparisons and not the differences as much. By honing in on all the other addictions people in AA have you are not helping them or yourself stay sober. It is like throwing the baby out with the bathwater, so to speak. I also question your own motives Henri.Is this a way for you to feel that you have superior sobriety because you don't smoke or take pills/narcotics? It kind of takes the focus off you and your own program. My only advice on your helping those feeding their other addictions and helping the sick, suffering alcoholic is by sharing your own experience strenghths and hopes with them. Love and tolerance is our code. AA,p 84 Peace.....Kelly
Member: Landscape Ray
Location: Scotland
Date: 1/12/2003
Time: 5:46:45 AM
I dont class Nicotine the same as heroin or cocaine what i ment was pills eg pain killers and drugs pescribed by there doctor or cigs if someone came to my meet and was still taking heroin ect of course i would try and help them i would point them in the direction of n.a. but my soberiety is very important to me and if someone has a dual addiction who am i to preach, people will only take advice Henri i know what it is like when i stopped smoking i tried to get eveyone else to stop but in the end it was up to them, you probably mean well but sometimes its hard to see what others dont, so good luck on your quest and god bless, got some ironing to do, Ray