Member: Mark W.
Location:
Date: 7/15/01
Time: 10:25:56 AM

Comments

WOW, Went to look over the Discussion, and it was just waiting for someone to get here ! How about "What we've got" ?

It's been a journey. I am sober today, and have been for a number that is increasing. My daughter came in while I was logged on this morning. She will be eighteen next month. She sees/hears my joy each time we talk today. Last July she moved out of her mothers home, and into mine. Mom had custody, and got support. My daughter was being held too tightly. She chose to be with dad. She and I have not had cross words at all since she has chosen to be with dad. Court order to stop support just went through with mom's blessing.

What is it we've got? The attitude shift that allows us to see the entire world in a different manner. The above is obviously a positive for me, but could have been taken as follows.

Oh, my! What did my daughter's mother do to make her want to be with me? What am I going to do with a teenager daughter??? Is she pregnant??? How the h**l am I going to manage to support her when I must pay $500 per month for support to her mother, even if she is living with me? Ex, just what did you do to OUR daughter? How am I going to manage? HELP!! GOD help me!!!!!

What have we got? See the difference in attitude above. This says it all. No, this issue was not the only one that came in the last year or so. I lost the job I'd had for the last twenty five years. I lost the woman I married for love, and divorce is final.

No real resentments today. Life IS good. I AM sober. Thank you, GOD. Good Orderly Directions for those not ready.

Mark W. LMW007@aol.com


Member: Donnie M (DOS 3-1-99)
Location: Short Gap, W.Va
Date: 7/15/01
Time: 10:33:03 AM

Comments

Hi, to ALL and welcome newcomer`s. I am Donnie and I am a alcoholic. I alway`s enjoy the topic of letting go and letting God. To me I know God has been in my life along time , but until I turned my life over to him and asked him for help. That he just waited for me to be ready to ask. I wonder why he put up with the thing`s I did and said? Today it is out of my hand`s and in his , so thank`s for letting me share. GOD BLESS ALL


Member: LesD
Location: MN, USA
Date: 7/15/01
Time: 10:33:24 AM

Comments

In this materialistic age we live in (credit cards, on-line shopping, 'debt-forever' attitude), I sometimes find it difficult to believe that my Higher Power will take care of my financial security. The promises DO come true -- I have had moments of freedom from financial insecurity. Today, though, I find myself in a position of unsteady income because I'm pursuing my dreams of owning my own business. It's a little scary!! Trying to care for my home, child, etc. by myself. Plus, I've got employees to pay and I feel over-responsible for everything. To make a long story short -- I'd like to see a discussion topic on the promise: "fear of economic insecurity will leave us". I'd love to hear others' experience, strength, and hope on this. Thanks!!!


Member: LesD
Location: MN, USA
Date: 7/15/01
Time: 10:37:33 AM

Comments

Wow! Now we have 2 topics to choose from: What We've Got and a Promise.... cool. I wrote my suggestion, thinking there was none yet and I get back to the board to see that 'What We've Got' is EXACTLY what I needed. Isn't sobriety wonderful?!?


Member: Mark W.
Location: St. Louis
Date: 7/15/01
Time: 10:50:46 AM

Comments

Sure IS Les:) Apologies for double dip, but I just checked as well.


Member: chuck k.
Location: Dallas, TX
Date: 7/15/01
Time: 11:23:43 AM

Comments

God Bless all here. My name's Chuck and I'm an alcoholic, and I've been sober all day by the Grace of God and since 5/27/84. What we've got is special, no matter how you look at it. A sober alcoholic is an oxymoron in language which means that pure logic or reasoning can't get me this way. It takes something, some power greater than logic to do it. For me, it started with the real love I felt from my group and soon for it. Then it occurred to me that love had to come from somewhere, and I chose to look at a higher power of pure love--the name that came to my mind for this power was God. That process had little to do with reason. it had to do with my need being answered by a Power Greater Than Myself. Wow, to think that I'm not already drinking on this fine Sunday morning, that neither of my children has ever seen me drunk, that my job is productive and necessary, that we are fed, clothed, and sheltered from the elements, that our needs are met continuously--even if it defies reason that they should be. I am amazed at what we have.

And it's a free gift and only 12 steps away for anyone who wants it. Thanks to both Mark and Les, and thanks for helping me to enjoy the gift we have again today. Love to all.


Member: Evin
Location: South Florida
Date: 7/15/01
Time: 11:48:00 AM

Comments

My name is Evin and I'm an alcoholic. I am grateful to be sober today.

My life has inproved unbelievably since I took my last drink on 11/2/97. I've got a wonderful wife, great children, good health, a roof over my head and food on the table.

I checked this week with my family to see how we're doing, asking them to score out of 10 - 0 being "ugh" and 10 being great. My children's average (their ages range from 10 t0 17) ranged from 6.5 to 8, my wife a 9.

I am under a lot of financial pressure lately having lost a good job last October. However I've decided to open my own business and it's beginning to come together. I did have my own business years ago before I got into recovery but I drank it away before I built it properly.

At times I get depressed but so did Bill W. His advice to us all is encapulated in the last sentence of the AA preamble and are the most important words in AA to me:

"Our primary purpose is to stay sober and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety."

If we do this everything else works out.

Thanks Mark for a great topic. Thank God for a great day!


Member: sherri M.
Location: S.Texas
Date: 7/15/01
Time: 12:40:40 PM

Comments

Hey all, Well it has been a while for me to squeeze in here for various reasons "good and bad". Always in retrospect the "bad" is good. Just trials from hence we should grow and learn. I have everything in that I have my life and choices to make these days. I make no comparisons and am jealous of no one.My greatest joys come from the simplest of lifes plaesures. From a beautiful bird, a soft breeze on a very hot south Texas day, to playing in the water hose while washing the dog. My fabulous family is icing on the cake most definitely.By fabulous, I mean constantly a source of inspiration in so many ways. Have a pretty cool job that is "meaningful" and a great comp. to work for thus far. It is simply an assignment to me to which my talents and life experiences are suited for and to which god has seen fit that I could contribute to the betterment of my life and others on this planet. I have other sources of income that make a job "choice" a preference of mine-not a necessity. Financial freedom comes in knowing that you are not blowing well earned money stupidly as we once had such a propensity to do so. I can be in debt yet not worry because I know that the money I invested is for worthwhile endeavors. Gotta run.,gonna go wash my dog and get all wet out in this hot summer day. Probably catch a little tan too and soak my son while I am at it. God be w/ all


Member: SherryW
Location: CA
Date: 7/15/01
Time: 1:54:49 PM

Comments

Ok, here goes Sherry, alcoholic. Financial problems are my testing grounds to stay sober. I failed last night. I'm the one everyone looks to for the strong shoulder to lean on when their world falls apart. I then become resentful and angry cause I'm tired. I would really like to depend on others myself. My two sons expect me to give them a home to live in, one isn't working. My husband lost his job and can't understand why I need to drink for relaxation(just an excuse for me.) I have company at my home and I am taking care of all of that expense, would someone tell me not to be a doormat and let go of all of this and let god handle these other people? How do you all handle co-dependent behaviors? Yours and theirs. I need a little input. This site keeps me sane because when I'm at my office i can still talk to you. Thanks


Member: an
Location: eur
Date: 7/15/01
Time: 2:16:37 PM

Comments

what do i have. Well , today, i still have a lot of problems, issues i don't control, things in my life that i dislike.

But today, i have a way to cope with those things, to accept them, and to not let those things take over my all life. And for that i am gratefull;


Member: Rich R, slowly recovering compulsive person :-)
Location: detroit richr_srcp@hotmail.com
Date: 7/15/01
Time: 5:01:37 PM

Comments

What has Rich R "got"? I have learned how to be a 'hole jumper'! Let me explain...

A drunk fell in a hole and couldn't get out.

A businessman went by. The drunk called out for help. The businessman threw him some money and told him "get yourself a ladder". But the drunk could not find a ladder in this hole he was in.

A doctor walked by. The drunk said, "Help, I can't get out." The doctor gave him drugs and said, "Take this, it will relieve the pain." The drunk said thanks, but when the pills ran out, he was still in the hole.

A renowned psychiatrist rode by and heard the drunk's cries for help. He stopped and said, "How did you get there? Were you born there? Were you put there by your parents? Tell me about yourself, it will alleviate your sense of loneliness." So the drunk talked with him for an hour, then the psychiatrist had to leave, but he said he'd be back next week. The drunk thanked him, but he was still in his hole.

A priest came by the drunk called for help. The priest gave him a Bible and said "I'll say a prayer for you". He got down on his knees and prayed for the drunk, then left. The drunk was very grateful, he read the Bible, but he was still stuck in that hole.

A recovering alcoholic happened to be passing by, coming home from an AA meeting. The drunk cried out, "Hey, help me, I'm stuck in this hole." Right away, the recovering alcoholic jumped in the hole with him. The drunk said, "What are you doing? Now we're both stuck here." But the recovering alcoholic said, "It's okay, I've been here before. I know how to get out."

(Shamelessly stolen from Curtis!)


Member: Corinne B.
Location: Home
Date: 7/15/01
Time: 5:48:18 PM

Comments

Everything I've got is because AA taught me about Letting Go and Letting God, and by practicing that simple tool, it eventually took away my "fear of people and of economic insecurity."

How's that for weaving all 3 topics together?

"What I have" is a peace of mind and calmness of living like I've never known. Most days, I feel as though I have been rocketed into that 4th Dimension referred to in the BB. And the main reason I feel that way is because I am no longer concerned with how I feel all the time. It came about as a direct result of letting go of self and coming to believe that a Power greater than myself could restore me to sanity, and would, if it were sought willingly, honestly, open-mindedly, earnestly and without reservation. I had only to want it bad enough.

I realized I was the one holding onto all my fears; the fears of people and economic insecurity were at the top of that list most all my life. Once I began to live life on life's terms and let go of my old ways of viewing the world, letting new ideas unfold, I became open to new ways of getting on with the business of living and staying sober. I realized my ideas hadn't worked, but that your ideas might, based on all the track records you had set and I could plainly see by your example. My only job was to try a new way, rather than my same old way, over and over again, expecting a different result. All along, I knew nothing would ever change by continuing to put faith in my own ideas, because they never had, up to the time I finally surrendered my will.


Member: Caroline
Location: Florida
Date: 7/15/01
Time: 6:31:28 PM

Comments

Hello to one and all. My name is Caroline and I am a alcoholic. .................thank

tod and AA all day to day I have not had to have a drink - for this drunk that is a miracle. When I got here I was told there was a way of life here that I could have for free and I would not have to drink. Can not anser for anyone but my self but I had to drink to live and lived to drink / drinking controled everthing I did and did not do. I was told my secess in living this wonderfull life did not have a thing to do with what others did or did not do - no one could do it for me and no one could take it from me. Don't drink - read the big book - go to meetings / I also was told it was ok to want to drink {at that time I did not know how to do anything else} - but that did not make it ok to drink - don't drink-don't drink-don't drink - If I would bring the body then the mind would follow. What I have today is a way of life were I do not have to drink. A lot of things are possible in my life today because I have a way to live and I do not have to drink - but just one small drink for me and it would all be gone. Today life is very good and Thank God I do not have to drink


Member: Sheila
Location: Detroit
Date: 7/15/01
Time: 7:30:26 PM

Comments

Hi, I'm an alcoholic. Refused to believe it for many, many years. I don't want to be, but I am. Alcohol has caused many bad things in my life, yet I still drink. I don't want to drink any more. I woke up and realized this morning that I can't do it on my own. I need help. That is very hard for me to admit to myself, and even harder to admit to others. But, I need help. I want to be happy again. I don't want to hurt others. I have an internal anger...I don't want to be angry any more. What I have is "today". Along with the realization that I need help to stop drinking. I thank God for that realization and everything else He has given me. And thank you all for listening.


Member: Malou
Location: Montreal
Date: 7/15/01
Time: 8:18:43 PM

Comments

What I have today are mornings. Mornings without hangovers, where bright sunshine is healing. What I have today is the ability to look people in the eye and also not be afraid to let them look at me in the eye. What I have today are hands that do not shake, bowels that are solid, thinking that is slower, clearer. I am not slouching, shuffling, sneezing. I am no longer lying in the gutter and looking down at the world. I am part of the world. What I have today is the privilege to live my one chance at life and not to waste it away. What I have today, I hope I will never take for granted, and therefore lose it. So for all of you who live their lives one day at a time, enjoy each one to its very last second. Malou


Member: Jo
Location: Iowa
Date: 7/15/01
Time: 8:38:43 PM

Comments

Hello, I'm Jo and I'm a recovering alcoholic. What I have today ...hmmm... one thing is the ability to feel and face my fears regarding finances. It is still the most difficult area for me to be responsible in; but sobriety gives me the tools to make changes. Sobriety reminds me of a loving HP who takes on my fear for me. So, even the "worst" part of my life is good. I also celebrate mornings as an incredible gift of sobriety~I've been given back the childhood wonder of discovering a new day over and over. Thank you to sponsors, groups, and you online folks for continuing to share the message.


Member: Sheree C.
Location: ny
Date: 7/15/01
Time: 11:16:58 PM

Comments

Hello, my name is sheree and i am an alcoholic. I just got out of detox 2 weeks ago. I'm only 22 and have been in 8 different rehabs since i was 17 years old. Every time i relapsed was because i had to do things my way. Now i am trying to learn to let go and let god. Thank you everyone for giving me hope that there is a better way to live. I am still in withdrawal not as bad as i was, but the only thing keeping me going is my higher power, the big book, and these online discussions. I am trying to find online meetings if anyone can help. thank you.


Member: Lonnie
Location: Tx.
Date: 7/16/01
Time: 12:39:12 AM

Comments

HI my name is Lonnie and I am an alcoholic. After 12 years of killing myself, my HP has given me.... My life back for 23 days now. The mornings have been my biggest gift. Instead of waking up at noon shaking with a hangover wondering what time I could have my fisrt drink, I have things to look forward to. My wonderful children coming in the room to be welcomed by a "sober" father,a goodmorning kiss from a "happy" wife, and a day of Hope ahead. For the things I have been given, I can only pray they are never lost again. I can keep my life "One Day at a Time".


Member: Bruce G
Location: Memphis
Date: 7/16/01
Time: 1:07:54 AM

Comments

IB Bruce, alcoholic

Before AA: Living inside(self),looking out (at life) After AA: Living outside(self),looking in (to find the source of any pain and, hopefully, repairing it)


Member: Mary Ann W.
Location: Florida
Date: 7/16/01
Time: 1:58:01 AM

Comments

I really needed this topic. I have been so critical of all the wonderful things I do have. When I am spiritually unfit, my serenity goes, and everything around me is not good enough. I have gotten away from my morning meditations and prayers, I have no sponsor at the moment and my meeting schedule is out of whack. I'm going to bed now, but first I will ask my Higher Power to guide me "back on track" by taking my will and using it as he knows is best for me. Right now, I am conjuring up all of these things which I think I need and don't have now. Thank you for being there and listening.


Member: Mandie G
Location: Montana
Date: 7/16/01
Time: 3:04:45 AM

Comments

Umm. Hi my name is mandie I am an alcoholic.

This is the first time that I have gone on to the internet looking for help with my recovery. I have been a year sober and now I find myself starting all over. I have no idea what has been going on the last 20 years. I suddenly found myself crying tonight asking other people if there was a god or higher power. I also was a little shakey with out the erge to drink. I have recently done a 4th step and felt the minimum of closure i guess I don't really understand what has happened to me, and I am very scared. I recently suffered the loss of my sister whom was only 16. Then four days ago I lost my uncle who was gunned down in his own home and now I feel so lost confused hurt angry and sorrow. I think I need a 2nd step meeting and I am not sure if I am in the right place for that. Thants all I have thanks


Member: Judy K
Location: Down Maine
Date: 7/16/01
Time: 6:00:04 AM

Comments

Hi, All --My name is Judy and I'm an Alcoholic. Checking in after a long time. I helped start this group, in fact gave it the name "Staying Cyber." Thrilled to find it still going strong! What have I got? Peace of mind, good health, blue heron and a bald eagle on the cove, AA friends, grandkids about to visit --- the Promises coming true every day. My gratitude list is very short, because I seem to have it all. Somewhere along the way I realized that Truth, Faith, Trust, Serenity, Surrender and Acceptance are all pretty much the same thing -- letting HP run my life. I went to a meeting once a long time ago and no one else showed. It was devastating! Thanks for being here!


Member: Mark W.
Location: St. Louis
Date: 7/16/01
Time: 6:02:31 AM

Comments

If you've come here seeking help with recovery, you've already demonstrated the first step to recovery. Mandie, and the others above who are still drinking, and those who are white knuckling it, as Mandie, above is, all need the program of AA to proceed to comfortable sobriety.

When I wrote the topic, I was unsure of what the response would be like. There are a number of testimonials as to what "we" have above, and it seems that those that do not yet, still want "it". This is a confirmation of what I saw as the promise of AA and sobriety.

Each day, today I have some serenity. I never had any when I was still drinking. I believe that those above that have said what they have, have merely described what they value in their recovery. Those that have "it" would still have an entry, even if they had nothing of what they described this time. The attitude change about. or toward life that living the steps brings about is the reason. We all have things to be thankful for. Today I can be thankful for the breath GOD has given me yet again this morning. In the past, I would have been irritated that I did not get what I wanted this day, no matter what it was.

I want to thank each sharer, as it has helped me to understand a little better myself, which is the single most difficult task I've undertaken to date. Mark W. LMW007@aol.com


Member: Tom G
Location: Saginaw, Mi
Date: 7/16/01
Time: 10:11:41 AM

Comments

My name is Tom, and I' m an alcoholic, sober today by the grace of God and the fellowship of Alcoholics Anonymous. I am now the proud father of an eight- week old baby boy, however my wife has had to seek help for post-partum depression. My saving grace, not to mention a wonderful mother-in-law, has been for me to think of others, and less about my worries. The thought , after 11 years of continuous sobreity, of drinking has not even crossed my mind, although my life now is definetly unmanageable. I have hope, and fears about my wife and I working through this, but I only have to do it one day at a time, and things will work out in God's time not mine My goal is to start out my day by coming to this site, and remembering how fortunate I really am, and yet to not take myself too seriously and use humor and trust, and thinking of her all day. I have a lot more today than I ever have, mainly because of prayer, meditation, and getting into action! Again fellow trudgers, lets have a great day , stay sober, and be grateful for each other"s love, and support


Member: Tim R
Location: Healdsburg, CA
Date: 7/16/01
Time: 11:21:34 AM

Comments

Hi - I'm Tim & I am an alcoholic. What I have is exactly what I ask God to grant me, 'SERENITY'. The amount of serenity I have is in direct proportion to how much of my old beliefs and attitudes I am willing to let go of. The way this happens for me is to continue to go to AA meetings and pay attention to lessons that are always presented to me.

AA - Alcohol Abstinence AA - Altered Attitude AA - Appropriate Action

My 10 year old grandson has come up to visit us for the week. He has never seen his 'Grampa' drunk. WHAT A GIFT!! I can never repay AA for that, but I will keep trying!!

Thank you for allowing me to share.


Member: billybob
Location:
Date: 7/16/01
Time: 2:57:10 PM

Comments

i awoke in the middle of the night to find my ole lady had crawled under the covers and put my penis in her mouth man it was good


Member: Chris W.
Location: Gator country
Date: 7/16/01
Time: 5:59:31 PM

Comments

Today (7/16) I'm 11 days shy of a year's sobriety and it feels great. But it is also scary. This is not my first try at this sobriety thing. In the past there were long periods that I was not drinking & then fell off the proverbial wagon. This last time I hit hard. I'm trying to put that behind me and move forward with everyday life. I'm greatful for each day I get through without a drink and hope and pray to stay on track this time. Remembering to stick to it every day can be tough!


Member: Riki J
Location: Reno
Date: 7/16/01
Time: 10:00:45 PM

Comments

I'm Riki & I'm an alcholic, What I have today is a level of sanity I've never known before. God has given that to me among other things. Serenity and peace of mind are the most amazing things I've ever experienced!

When I came to the rooms of AA I had no idea if I would stay sober, I never really wanted to quit drinking but I wanted my life to change, I found that the steps could help me to change my life as well as my thinking within the first year of recovery. I was so amazed and today I can't imagine my life any other way. I no longer fear economic insecurity, I have a good job but even if I didn't I believe that by doing the foot work and the next right thing is all that God requires from me in these matters. When I was drinking I ran up a lot of bills, today I am making my financial amends little by little to the best of my ability, it makes me feel good to do it.

If someone had told me I would feel this way about life I wouldn't belived them, I would've thought it impossible to be happy and to feel secure with myself. I found the things I always searched for within the rooms of AA and the people I have in my life today, for this I am grateful.


Member: bonnie h.
Location: N. E. TEXAS
Date: 7/16/01
Time: 10:09:11 PM

Comments

hi my name is Bonnie I am an alcoholic, i have a little over 20 months sober today mandie i under stand the confusion, hurt& anger believe me.ALL I know is GOD didn'T BRING US THIS FAR TO DROP US nothing happens in GOD"S world by mistake i daily have to remind myself of this YOU hang in there


Member: Kim M.
Location: Lincoln, NE
Date: 7/17/01
Time: 1:08:27 AM

Comments

Hi Kim the Alcoholic here.

Thanks Judy for setting up this wonderful website. You have really done a great thing. Congratulations on the great name too.

I am grateful for so many things...my health, my home, friend, family, kitties, doggies and AA. It is truly a gift that keeps on giving. I so proud to be a member of this group.


Member: Tony J.
Location: Alaska
Date: 7/17/01
Time: 2:05:21 AM

Comments

Hi, I'm Tony, and I'm an alcoholic. The topic reminds me of page 449 in the Big Book, which my sponcer made me read every day for the first few years. I'm a slow learner, ha,ha. With A.A. and my Higher Power, and several good sponcers, I've been able to stay sober since Oct.22,87, one day at a time. First time computer user and on line. Be Happy. Thank You.Tony


Member: Jack B
Location: Palo Alto, Pa
Date: 7/17/01
Time: 2:34:24 AM

Comments

Hi, I am Jack, a real alcoholic. What we've got is a great topic. The most important thing I have today is my sobriety. Thru the Grace of God and the Fellowship of Alcoholics Anonymous, I have enjoyed continous sobriety since 23 November, 1987. Thru the twelve step program, I can say for the most part I approve of the way I live today. I have found a serenity deep inside me that I can not explain, except to say it has got to be the Grace of God that tells me that no matter what happens in my life, I am going to be okay, I don;t have to drink over it first and foremost, and if I just do what I need to do and let God take care of the rest, it usually works itself out. Today, I can honestly say that I have everything I need, and most everything that I want. Thanks for allowing me to share and God Bless


Member: Kathy  K.
Location: Northeast
Date: 7/17/01
Time: 2:46:16 AM

Comments

My name is Kathy - I'm an alcoholic. Visited this site several times last year before my web browser was eliminated. Am now back online permanently through the grace of God(someone GAVE me a new computer). What have I got? Periods of serenity - an extremely grateful heart - a very deep love for my fellow alcoholics - a growing understanding about life and about my role as a recoverng alcoholic. One of the other reasons I stopped visiting this site last year was to have my third lung cancer successfully removed. Had I still been drinking I would not have had the courage to undergo this surgery. I'm rambling - just VERY glad to be a part of this discussion group once again.


Member: The crazy world of Avril G
Location: Belgium via Barnsley UK
Date: 7/17/01
Time: 6:21:24 AM

Comments

{{{{{JUDY}}}}} Thanks for helping start this site, hope you stay with us now.

{{{{{SHEREE C}}}}} I have lots of links for online recovery meetings, some of which are voice activated, but the URL's are too long to post here, they are not accepted if they are long. I can send them via e-mail if you want to e-mail me.

WHAT have I got?? I have sobriety, a life beyond my wildest dreams (as AA promised) and I have the courage to face many fears which I once escaped from (temporarily) by hiding in a bottle. In material terms, I have the square root of f@&k all, having had a bad experience little over a year ago, which resulted in me losing everything I had ever owned, I am repaying debts at reduced payments, BUT, in order to negotiate the reduced payments, instead of throwing bills and debtor's letter in the bin, I ASKED FOR HELP!!! Something I could never do as a drunk!! The promise states 'FEAR of people and of economic insecurity will leave us' NOT people and economic insecurity will leave us. The FEAR of it has left me, because AA sponsors taught me to face my fears. The 12 promises are what I have in my life today, YES ALL 12!! I only need to read pges 83/4 of the Big Book to know what I have today.

I have clothes on my back, shoes on my feet, and can provide a meal, a far cry from the helpless babbling drunken sot who came to AA 18 years ago!! It took me 7 years in AA to grasp and develop a manner of living which demands rigorous honesty, and no-one is more amazed than I am to have just recently celebrated 11 years of continued sobriety.

I have a 'manager' in today. I call him/her/it GOD. I sometimes feel he/she/it isn't quite up to the job, but eventually the results come, and even though they may not be the results I WANT, they are exactly the results I need.

Incidentally, someone at an AA meeting a couple of weeks ago broke his anonymity to me about another fellowship of which he is a member, which has been very useful for me, it is DEBTOR'S ANONYMOUS, and it can be found online too.

SO, another thing I've got is a lot of answers to lots of questions. AA (among its fellowship) has an answer for everything, all I have to do is be honest enough to ask the right questions. I thank God for AA, and I thank AA for (MY) God.

Have a great day, unless of course, you have something else planned.

goodallavril@hotmail.com


Member: Mark C.
Location: NYC
Date: 7/17/01
Time: 9:05:47 AM

Comments

Hi, my name is Mark, and I'm an alcoholic.

Today, I've been sober for nine months, and it's a perfect day to look at what I've got. So thanks for the topic. First of all, I've got sanity. I'm not confused anymore. And I'm not afraid anymore. I no longer take a drug (alcohol) that makes me confused and afraid. And I can remember things, from what I did last night, to telephone numbers and what needs to be done today, it's all pretty safely stored away, now that I'm not crippling my memory anymore. And I've got my immediate health. As someone mentioned already, firm bowels and a steady stomach make quite a difference to your outlook on life. I'm paying off debts and have no great financial fears, partly because I'm earning several times what I was when I was drinking, and partially because I know that, even if something were to go wrong with my work, I'd be able to make it through any financial hardships that arose. That's part of the confidence thing, which is probably the most important benefit of being sober to me. I've got time too, I get up while most people are still asleep these days, and start work early so that I can knock off early and spend time with my son. So not only do I have time to do what I really want to do, but I have the ability to plan and schedule my time. All that would have been impossible for me when I was drinking.

I've also got peace of mind at the higher level. When I first came to AA, they told me that atheists and agnostics were welcome, and that the only requirement for membership was a desire to stop drinking. They told me to take what worked for me and leave the rest. And they are still telling me that. So, thanks to the principles of this program, I have been able to grow as an atheist. I've been able to go from a confused agnostic, who didn't know what he believed in, to a centered atheist who follows the principles of Taoism. And no one has ever told me that I can be a member of AA, and share my strength hope and experience because of that.

Although I spend most of my online time at www.unhooked.com, which is another sober site, more geared to atheists than AA, I like to visit this site once a month, because it was the message and program of AA in general, and this site in particular that got me sober. I wouldn't have any of what I've got now without you all. And for that I am grateful.

Mark C.


Member: Lisa O
Location: Virginia
Date: 7/17/01
Time: 11:05:37 AM

Comments

My name is lisa and I am An Alcoholic:

What I have today is my life. I am greatfull for my life.


Member: elizabethf
Location: New England
Date: 7/17/01
Time: 1:32:24 PM

Comments

What I have today is an awareness that my life can be more. I have been a binge drinker for many, many years. I have had so much guilt and confusion over this. I have tried to stop drinking so many times. I am a Mom. I look like the perfect Mom, school activities, dance classes, a good job... but I have this secret. When I drink, I drink to excess. I wake up on Saturday mornings with a horrible hangover and a big cloud of guilt hanging over me. This is not the person I want to be. My last drink was Sunday, I had 5-6 beers and wanted more but there was no more. Monday morning I tried to pretend like nothing was wrong but I was sick and confused and tired... I felt horrible. I need to change my life. Thanks for listening. Elizabeth F.


Member: Wouter
Location: Neth
Date: 7/17/01
Time: 2:51:43 PM

Comments

Wouter from the Neth, alkie.

I will be sober tomorow for two years. An enormous amount of days. 41 I am, and after a medical thing in a hospital I went running for the first time in three months.

So I have got my sobriety and my legs, my lungs are also free from smoke and pot for the same amount of days.

My head is clear, I feel strong and free.

I am happy.

Very.

Thanks for sharing, love this site.


Member: Doug W
Location: Midwest
Date: 7/17/01
Time: 8:28:10 PM

Comments

My name is Doug, and i'm an alcoholic. I've been sober about 5 days now. First went into treatment in July 92. A good bit of that time i haven't drank, but i haven't been able to really quit. I'm going to try to find a sponsor tomorrow---wish me luck!


Member: Mike D.
Location: Minneapolis
Date: 7/17/01
Time: 10:08:43 PM

Comments

What we've got? Thanks to the fellowship of AA and the grace of God, I haven't taken a drink since July 31, 1999. I am 47 years old. For many years my life was a "house of cards". I was driven by a hundred forms of fear, self-delusion, self-seeking and self-pity (p. 61 BB). By 1999, the house of cards was falling apart. It was like a car out of control hitting the wall. Smack. Boom. Crash.

Today, I can try to be rigorously honest. I can have hope for a better future. I can have faith that everything is alright and is going to be alright.

Today, I have a spiritual belief in my life that I did not have before. I believe that there is a spiritual force in the world. My task is to get find it, get close to it and stay close to it. It forces me to listen to other people, because it is through the voice of other people that I get to hear my HP, who I choose to call God. My HP puts the right people with the right information in my life when I need them. (When the student is ready, the teacher appears).

Today, I have a life. Without AA, I would have nothing.


Member: Carol
Location: MN
Date: 7/18/01
Time: 4:57:49 AM

Comments

My name is Carol and I am an alcoholic. The first thing that came to mine was to talk about things given to ME. In other words My Ego. i have this, I have that etc. Well the program of AA has goven me serenity, peace, sobriety, a relationship whith my children, other people a dober husband. I could make a big long list but the main thing I need to know is that thinghs pale in comparison to the gifts from God. (Broken fat finger messing up the keyboard again too many mistakes to find them all.) I may not be rich, will always be in debt, that is the nature fo the beast but the FEAR of econimic insecurity has left on a daily basis directly proportional to my spirityal condityion. Carol and Brave Little Blind Dog


Member: LeeEllen
Location: MI
Date: 7/18/01
Time: 7:50:11 AM

Comments

Hello all - LeeEllen here and a grateful recovering alcoholic, sober ONLY by the grace of God since 7-29-93. Thanks Mark W. for the topic.

What I have today is just like all the other posters --- peace of mind, hope, loss of most fears, love, respect of my children, faith that God will take care of my needs (not necessarily my wants), but most of all sobriety.

Before AA, what I DIDN'T have was peace of mind, hope, lack of fears, faith or sobriety. Plus, I didn't have friends (true friends), self-respect, love, a Higher Power, respect of my children, security, gratitude, or a will to live.

Mandie and all others who are struggling, this can/will be yours too. Just trust God, read the Big Book, don't drink and go to meetings. Simple but not easy. My prayers are with you.

Thanks for letting me share. God Bless. Peace, LeeEllen


Member: Joe L.
Location: Phila., PA - USA
Date: 7/18/01
Time: 10:26:41 AM

Comments

Good Morning All; Joe here, definitely an alcoholic.

MARK W: Thanks for the topic.

CHUCK K: My experience was pretty much the same as yours.

LONNIE & MANDIE G.: "Hang In There"

CORRINNE B: Thank you for "I am no longer concerned with how I feel all the time."

What we've got is the fact that it's "we" now. For so long, it was "me". Noone understood me, noone else had my problems, noone else knew how I felt, yada, yada, yada. In A.A., I know they understand. I know they've been there. They taught me what's important. Like Chuck, they loved me when I didn't love myself. Because of them, I sought their higher power. I wanted what they had. Now, "WE'VE" got a program for living. We have a way of life that works. We are alcoholics that no longer have to drink, one day at a time. We are the lucky ones...


Member: Clint U
Location: South Chicago
Date: 7/18/01
Time: 1:38:46 PM

Comments

My name is Clint and I'm an alcoholic. Today I have feelings. These are true valid feelings that are a natural part of life. The feelings that I had when drinking were false and created by chemicals and faulty emotional states. I chose to feel today because of sobriety which is attributable to God and AA.

I also have the abillity to interact with other people on a real emotional basis. I have no fear of exposing real or perceived transgresions in my interactions with others. I can have a conversation with my wife without watching my words for fear of revealing something to her which I was hiding. By listening to God's will on a daily basis, I am able to end the day without any baggage to carry over to the next day.

I still make mistakes on a daily, sometimes hourly, basis. The difference is that my mistakes are "honest" mistakes, they are not the fruits of endless planning and deception. If I am honest with myself, then I am able to inventory myself at the end of the day and recoup my losses with God.

This is just my fifth week sober and I am glad to have found a site where I can express myself and get other help from the program. This program has already worked wonders for me and I will keep coming back.


Member: ANTHONY B
Location: MAARYLAND
Date: 7/18/01
Time: 2:48:21 PM

Comments

MY NAMES TONY,I AM AN ALCOHOLIC.1ST TIME HERE ,NOT LAST,I KNOW HOW TO GET IN THE HOLE,AND HOW TO GET OUT BUT IT CONTINUES TO BE A REVOLVING HOLE [SO TO SPEEK].GOD IS MY HIGHER POWER,AND TODAY I AM SOBER.


Member: JoeE
Location: OH
Date: 7/18/01
Time: 2:54:08 PM

Comments

Hi everyone my name is Joe and I have just came back into AA... I would like to Thank God for this day and the knowledge that God is with me. I have been quite unsteady for a few weeks after stumbling on the second step that made me wonder about the first step. It was obvious insanity to relapse... I realized that I had drifted away from the higher power that had always been there in my bouts with the insane moments when I started thinking that I could drink and be normal... or not even think at all. I was wondering if my sanity would ever be restored until last night when my thoughts went from bad to plain insane. I went to my bedroom away from everyone and began to read ch. 3 of the BB... It took a while to be able to concentrate but when I finally saettled down and started to comprehend what I was reading... a gentle serenity and peace filled me. Today, for the first time in a long time, I have the peace and serenity of knowing that I am in good hands.


Member: JoeE
Location: Ohio
Date: 7/18/01
Time: 3:05:46 PM

Comments

Oh yeh,sorry for a double post but- I'm Joe and I AM an alcoholic.


Member: ben
Location:
Date: 7/18/01
Time: 3:57:00 PM

Comments

my name is boner ben and my erection wont go away,what can i do?


Member: JL
Location: The Beach
Date: 7/18/01
Time: 6:14:58 PM

Comments

If you want what we have and are willing to go to any length to get “it”.........

How many times did you listen to that and wonder what the heck?

What is “it” that we have? What we have, or better said, the first 100 alcoholics described in the book have, is the spiritual awakening. That’s what they “have” had. By the grace of god and working the 12 steps I have been able to stay sober and have the spiritual awakening. From that I “have” everything else, the promises coming true, the prayers working in my life, a restored family, serenity, a new manner of living, a god of my own understanding, and on and on.


Member: JL
Location: The Beach
Date: 7/18/01
Time: 6:15:46 PM

Comments

If you want what we have and are willing to go to any length to get “it”.........

How many times did you listen to that and wonder what the heck?

What is “it” that we have? What we have, or better said, the first 100 alcoholics described in the book have, is the spiritual awakening. That’s what they “have” had. By the grace of god and working the 12 steps I have been able to stay sober and have the spiritual awakening. From that I “have” everything else, the promises coming true, the prayers working in my life, a restored family, serenity, a new manner of living, a god of my own understanding, and on and on.


Member: debbie k
Location:
Date: 7/18/01
Time: 7:32:27 PM

Comments

If anyone here has "emotional baggage" which is out of his control then this is the place to be. Would you agree


Member: Ed G,
Location: Bryan
Date: 7/18/01
Time: 7:43:01 PM

Comments

Hi, Ed alcoholic. What have I got? I have what AA and my big book has taught me. How to keep my sobriety. Also I have family that supports me an awful lot. Being around other alcoholics shows me that I can stay sober, if I work the program. Take it one day at a time..


Member: David R.
Location: Virginia
Date: 7/18/01
Time: 10:02:30 PM

Comments

Hello everyone. My name is David and I have been sober for five months. Right now I am thankful for what God has enabled me to do for the first time in my adult life; sobriety. He has given me another chance and another life. In thinking about what I've got, I have to remember what I had before putting the booze away in February. Before, I carried around a lot of insecurity about myself both in my work and personal life. Before I had a lot of failed relationships built on a alcohol foundation. Before I had to wake up in the morning and wait till time to drink again to feel better, and ended up feeling worse.

Now what I've got is a second marriage without arguments, fighting, lies and mistrust. I am more confident on the job, and have gotten better and more sincere in what I do for a living. Now, I have the opportunity to raise my six month old daughter to be the first child in either side of my family tree(in at least 50 years) in a drug and alcohol free home, and the excited anticipation of what potential she may become without the burden and shame of having a drunk or drug addicted parent. I owe my new life to God, and thank him daily. God bless you all and keep it up.


Member: Piet S
Location: Lower East Side Manhattan
Date: 7/19/01
Time: 12:47:23 AM

Comments

Hi to All- This is my first cyber meeting. Thanks for all the sharing of experience, strength and hope.My soberity date is 5/10/2000. My sober routine is to pray the third step prayer upon awakening, read two pages of the BB,call my sponsor or two other recovering members of AA and ideally attend at least one FtoF meeting a day. I've recently done a fourth and fifth step but the person I did the fifth step with and I agreed that I need to do a better fear inventory. I can start this fear inventory by stating that I have fear of looking at fear, fear of economic insecurity, fear of people finding out what a degenerate human being I became while drinking. With HP's help and people like you I hope to become useful member of the planet. Today I didn't drink,said my third step prayer,called my sponsor and talked on the phone to a newcomer,read my two pages and helped a baby sparrow in the park by turning over a cup cake wrapper. The side that had food on it.


Member: Tonya K.
Location: Lubbock,Texas
Date: 7/19/01
Time: 2:23:55 AM

Comments

Hi everyone. My name is Tonya and I'm sober by the grace of God and it's been that way since 3/9/88. What I have today is a long list of blessings due to AA. To name a few I'm sober, healthy,and have a higher power to guide me through this somewhat sane life. As for the fear about finances, the fear is gone, but I still have the struggle of living life on life's terms. The book only promises that the fear will be removed.


Member: Bob R.
Location: PA.
Date: 7/19/01
Time: 8:44:18 AM

Comments

Hi all,first time here and I only have 10 min.,must be at work soon.I drank over 10 yrs. of my life away,quit for over a year,then started again!Why??? I really hope I can find my way back i here, I'm new to the web thing!Stayed sober last night,first in a long time. Feels pretty good waking up the next day!!!! I'm Bob from Pa.,will stop back later,thanks----


Member: Patrick
Location: Alberta Canada
Date: 7/19/01
Time: 7:57:25 PM

Comments

My name is Patrick and Im an Alcoholic! just trying to find some people to talk to right now!


Member: Patrick
Location: Alberta Canada
Date: 7/19/01
Time: 8:13:32 PM

Comments

If anyone can tell me how to get to an on line meeting without getting thoroughly confused in the process I would sure appreciate finding out. I have been spending the last hour trying to find out how to get to an on-line Meeting. my hotmail address is: oliver_troy@hotmail.com


Member: olivia c
Location:
Date: 7/19/01
Time: 9:07:02 PM

Comments


Member: olivia c
Location:
Date: 7/19/01
Time: 9:07:25 PM

Comments


Member: Sandy M
Location: St. Paul MN
Date: 7/20/01
Time: 1:03:28 AM

Comments

Hi I'm Sandy an alcoholic, this is my first time at any kind of online discussion. "what we have" Thanks to all who shared.

To all those that are struggling, DONT PICKUP THAT FIRST DRINK, GO TO MEETINGS AND BE HONEST> IT DOES GET BETTER!!!!!!


Member: Lionel-C
Location: Cambelltown Sydney Australia
Date: 7/20/01
Time: 5:53:45 AM

Comments

Hello everyone my naames lionel I am an alcoholic.What i have today is the life i dreamed about when i was drinking.and it's all because i have'nt picked up a drink or drug today.When they say alcohol is the great remover. Today i know exactly what there taking about.It removes stains / pay packets /Families /self dignety /on and on /thats if your an alcoholic like me.But this pogram /and God as i try to understand as helped me regain all that/but not over nite.I've had to learn to give time time.Thankyou all for being here. Ps Patrick there are a couple of chat rooms where u can talk to recovering alcohlics. [Sobervioces.com.au] [Paltalk.com.au]cya there.


Member: Curtis L
Location: Goliad, Texas
Date: 7/20/01
Time: 11:15:58 AM

Comments

Hi Friends,

My name is Curtis L and I'm also from South Texas like Sherri M. but that covers a big area.

What I have today is freedom. The bondage of alcohol is gone. It was my master, and I was the slave. It started as my friend and them became my higher power. Prior to May 4, 1985 I was existing more than living. Today I can live. BUT, for me, I must attempt to live for Gods will and not my own. So, each morning, I put these old knees on the floor and ask God to please grant me another sober day. Please grant me knowledge of Your Will for me and the power to carry it out.

As a fallible human being with a free will granted from God, I must remind myself all day that I'm to seek his will, not mine. My sponsor instructed me to make plans, take action, do the footwork, and leave the results up to God. Acceptance and Humility are two huge parts of my recovery today, but I need constant reminders or I get back into self will.

I get drunk, and we stay sober. I need you folks and thanks for being here.

Love and hugs in the fellowship, Curtis L.


Member: Bob R.
Location: Pa.
Date: 7/20/01
Time: 11:48:11 AM

Comments

I posted yesterday for the first time.I would really like to have people to email to,I have been trying to find places on the web where alcoholics can web each other.I dont see a "RE" section in here,but it would be nice just to get to know others from anywhere? I am in Manheim,Pa.-- bob52161@webtv.net---Most of the people I am around drink,I know I could say no,but I know you people know how hard that is!!I could kick myself in the a-- for ever starting again,but I did, and now I must stop.Thanks for listening,or I should say,reading!!


Member: Bob R.
Location: Pa.
Date: 7/20/01
Time: 11:57:08 AM

Comments

Sorry to post again,but I just read Debbie's post from?? YES,I would agree very much so.My emotional state of mind has a lot to do with me drinkig!I have very low self esteem,and thats where it starts.I cant even bring myself to actually go to meetings because of it, other then webbing.I feel lucky I found this place.


Member: Jeffrey.P
Location: up state N.Y
Date: 7/20/01
Time: 3:16:30 PM

Comments

Hi everyone im Jeff and im an ALCOHOLIC what a wonderfull site this is this is my first time here and already im greatfull what a beautiful topic thank you Mark.W i have been sober just over a year now and i dont know where to begin i have so much more today i have a loveing relationship with my fiancee and my children and its all because of the rooms of aa and most of all i have my sobrity and that is way more then i had a year ago i want to thank aa and my higherpower for helping me to choose the right path


Member: Chris J.
Location: Johnson City,TN
Date: 7/20/01
Time: 5:26:32 PM

Comments

My sobriety date is June 27,2000.I am really grateful for my sobriety today.Because I can only keep what I have by giving it away.I am really having a hard problem with acceptance today.My sister is 5'9 and weighs 82 pounds. And their is not much more we can do for her.We have tried the hospital and everything. And their seems to nothing more we can do for her but pray.Would everyone of you please pray for me and my family.I don't know any of you but I feel right at home because I can come in here and share my pain. thanks everyone.:)


Member: Lou G
Location: Illinois
Date: 7/20/01
Time: 5:40:02 PM

Comments

I'm Lou and I'm an alcoholic. I know I don't appreciate the great things I have in life and dwell on the negative as an excuse to drink. I'm not even close to sobriety yet and feel guilty every day that I still drink. Thanks to all who have posted here. I'll keep trying partly because of finding this website.


Member: joe H.
Location: fremont,ohio
Date: 7/20/01
Time: 5:45:34 PM

Comments

Hello all, I am Joe,alcoholic and Dry Drunk. I'm having a great deal of difficulty inraising a 14 yr.old step daughter that has become increasingly more and more mouthy. Thus, I become unglued at times then angry for several days being a s.o.b to live with... Today I threatened to move out, (now in the dog house literally)...anyways I wish I could improve on the ability to not allow it to get me... Maybe the Serenity Prayer is right...


Member: Debbie K
Location:
Date: 7/20/01
Time: 5:59:42 PM

Comments

Reading Bob R's comment. Maybe you should try 'reaching out' to somebody! Websites are great but we also need to attend meetings. Getting the courage to do these things help to build our self esteem.


Member: Mariell
Location:
Date: 7/20/01
Time: 6:37:57 PM

Comments

Hi, I am Mariell, and I am still in the process of reading all your comments and learning from all of you. God bless you all


Member: Steve z
Location: Danbury Ct
Date: 7/20/01
Time: 9:17:46 PM

Comments

Hi, Steve here. 7 days sober, trying to deal with lifes problems without the shooters is getting a bit easier. Worst day so far, fishing the other day. Hot and thirsty. I would have mugged a nun for a cold brew. Thought about a cold frosty one like in the beer commercials. Fantasy turned to reality when i sped passed the liquor store for home and had a club soda and a hershey bar. It felt better to beat the urge than to have the beer. I won that round and it felt great!


Member: Steve Z
Location:
Date: 7/20/01
Time: 9:23:21 PM

Comments

whoops, almost forgot...what do I have? How about courage to know i have a problem and the guts to confront it...;-)


Member: Wm O
Location: Macks Inn Id
Date: 7/21/01
Time: 1:03:14 AM

Comments

Hi Im Bill alcoholic

Im a year sober My eyes are so clear. I have people in my life who truly care about me .They appear with either the same issue or point me to a solution.I know longer feel like the incredible walking mistake. My Gods soul purpose is no longer to punish me into submission.Im actualy learning to live in this skin I hated for so long.Im no longer ashamed.My mind isnt running negative things constantly through it over and over.Im allowed my place in line every bit as deserving as the man next to me. Love Bill


Member: Wendy K.
Location: by the lake
Date: 7/21/01
Time: 10:32:16 AM

Comments

Hi I'm Wendy, recovering alcoholic. What I have today is the ability to tell anyone anything I did yesterday. No more hiding, no more shame. I have self esteem today. I have 4 grandchildren who have never seen me drunk and by the grace of God, never will. I have a good job in my chosen field and rapport with my co-workers that was impossible for me when I was active. I have a good husband, less than a year, who is also in recovery, from another substance, and I don't have to keep secrets from him either. All in all my life, while not perfect, is much much better than it ever was when drinking. I will have 5 years in September, means the return of the marbles they say, what do I have to look forward to then? Hopefully continued progress in


Member: Tommy B,
Location: middle of Kansas
Date: 7/21/01
Time: 11:52:11 AM

Comments

Hi....My name is Tommy, and I'm a recovering drunk....It is good to read everyone's comments on this topic.... What i have now is freedom from guilt due to making an arse of myself drinking and not knowing what I did the night before.....I have the respect of my family and friends again....Even my friends that still use are proud of me now....I had alot of folks worried, and that isn't a good feeling.....I'm just getting ready to go to a noon meeting at my home group, where i have blended in quite well..I am grateful for the help and acceptance I have received from all at AA....I can now go to almost any group when I travel, and feel at home......Thanks for letting me share.....I am just 4 months sober after a 30 yr. drinking career, and am already enjoying the benefits of sobriety.....The benefits are too numerous to mention.......I'll put this site on my favorites and look again soon....Again, thanks for being there.....Tommy B.


Member: Jerry S
Location: Wisconsin
Date: 7/21/01
Time: 11:58:22 AM

Comments

My name is Jerry and I am an alcoholic. This is my first visit to this cyber meeting. I have not been to a meeting for couple weeks and noticed I am getting moody. It feels good to read others comments and get my feelings out. I will be using this more in the future and bookmarked it.


Member: joyce
Location:
Date: 7/21/01
Time: 8:39:42 PM

Comments

my name is joyce and i am an alcoholic who is grateful for this program, and this website. although sober for over a decade, i've become nonchalant about recovery; often i think i really could do 'just some' drinking with 'nice meals'. a few months back i bought a bottle, 'just in case.' tonight i am throwing it away, unopened. actions first, mind will follow. thanks for being there.


Member: Rich R, slowly recovering compulsive person :-)
Location: detroit richr_srcp@hotmail.com
Date: 7/21/01
Time: 9:10:39 PM

Comments

Rich R, double dipper (applies to my posting here as well as my eating ice cream cones!)

I really didn't comment on the great topic in my first post this week. "What we've got?" One thing we've got is each other. I would never have associated with alcoholics before coming to AA in 1990, now some of you are my best friends. The other thing we've got is a spirit of recovery, we KNOW we can do this. After all, AA has been around for 66 years, it isn't a fluke or a fad, it's here to stay. We've got the literature, I might even stretch that so far as to say StayingCyber is 'literature'. When I read this page each week it's like going to a meeting. And lastly what we've got is another chance. (I heard someone put it this way at a meeting and it has stuck...) AA DIDN'T give us a second chance on life, AA gave us a chance at a SECOND life. Thanks for letting me share (again).


Member: Mark W.
Location: St. Louis
Date: 7/21/01
Time: 10:07:00 PM

Comments

It's about the end of this one. Thank you everyone for all the explanations of what the "IT" is. Seems that giving "IT" away is far more important today than getting "IT". Sure helps me to know that what I've gotten is so similar to what so many have received.

This board has gotten a sudden influx of newcomers due to the Grapevine article, I believe. So that true newcomers, and those who just haven't been here before, know that they are welcome, be aware that you are as welcome as that newcomer at a face to face meeting. We all need that newcomer as much as they need us. Their input often brings up points we may have missed, just like reading a section of the BB for the hundredth time, and getting something new out of it yet again.

Again, thanks for all the uplifting posts this week. Mark W. LMW007@aol.com


Member: Bob R.
Location: Pa.
Date: 7/21/01
Time: 11:59:14 PM

Comments

Debbie, thanks for your responce to my post, I have tried reaching out, but I am a very "secluded" type person. Not by choice, but by nature! I pray every day to be different, but I am still here!! Thanks for answering though!!


Member: Jeffrey.P
Location: up state N.Y
Date: 7/22/01
Time: 9:22:11 AM

Comments

Goodbye to those late nights of drinking untill i could not see. Goodbye to all the hungover mornings they are not for me. Goodbye to all the blackouts that i do not remember. Goodbye to the trouble that alcohol has caused me. I no longer need this demon runing threw my veins. Goodbye to all the hartaches and pain this addiction has caused me. I will never forget the controll you had over me no more lieing cheating stealing just to feel free. I know longer need courage that comes from a drink. With out you in my life i can clearly think. Im sorry for what i did to my loved ones when you were in controll. Without you in my life everyday is like a sunday afternoon stroll. Im free of your grasp and the toll you took on me at last i can say im finely free. You were my best friend when no one was their to care. You were yhe only reason i took all those dares. And now that your gone but yet so strong slowly my life is moving on. I know i will have to fight you everyday this is where i want to stay. I can no longer accept you as my friend if that happens it will be the end. So now i can say fairwell to you my addiction you can go strait to hell.


Member: C.J.M
Location: Black Ankle N.C.
Date: 7/22/01
Time: 9:53:49 AM

Comments

Hey All, I'm a cross addicted alcoholic called C. J. Thank you Rich.Not only for the story that I enjoyed a lot but also for the anser to the topic which was what do we have.As I read the posts ,all I heard was what I've got.You are so right,what we have is each other and a program that does work.What we have is a way out of ourself and a way into the light. I thank GOD daily For the program of Alcoholics Annonymous, it saved my life.I have to thank GOD for anoughter chance at a sober life and thank all of you for allowing me to share


Member: Jeff B.
Location: Northern CA
Date: 7/22/01
Time: 11:10:59 AM

Comments

Hi, My name is Jeff and I am an alcoholic. When I was drinking I was heading for the hospital, jail, or the cemetary (and I made it to 2 of 3 for very short stays). What I have today is a chance. As long as I don't drink and stay in contact with AA and God.

Things get better as long as I am willing to maintain a certain simple attitude (p.27 BB) - take some simple actions -and trust God for results.

Thank you all for being here.