Member: Jeff
Location: The First State
Date: 16 Aug 1998
Time: 12:05:46
Hi, I'm Jeff, a grateful recovering alcoholic. I am sober today, and very happy to be that way. Thanks
Member: Treasurer
Location:
Date: 16 Aug 1998
Time: 12:36:38
Time to pass the hat.
This internet meeting runs on contributions from people like you! May we suggest a one dollar donation for each year sober? (Only if you can afford that.) Once our expenses are met, the rest is sent to GSO in New York to carry the message around the world! Just as this wonderful meeting does. Please send to: Staying Cyber Box 392 Minisink Hills, Pa 18341
Thanks for taking the time to support this meeting Sincerely: Perry H
Member: Treasurer
Location:
Date: 16 Aug 1998
Time: 12:36:52
Time to pass the hat.
This internet meeting runs on contributions from people like you! May we suggest a one dollar donation for each year sober? (Only if you can afford that.) Once our expenses are met, the rest is sent to GSO in New York to carry the message around the world! Just as this wonderful meeting does. Please send to: Staying Cyber Box 392 Minisink Hills, Pa 18341
Thanks for taking the time to support this meeting Sincerely: Perry H
Member: David B 9/8/81
Location: Idaho Falls
Date: 16 Aug 1998
Time: 12:52:22
Hot damn. Seems like we need some money to keep the show runnin'. That brings up a Bitchin' little topic!! The 7th Tradition of being self supporting and how we utilize that tradition at group level AND on a personal level.
I will post on it later after giving the topic some thought.
Love in the Fellowship DB
Member: Beth R.
Location: Calistoga
Date: 16 Aug 1998
Time: 12:55:30
Good moring, my name is Beth and I am an alcoholic. Progress is undeniable for me today. would like to hear yours. This alkie woman was doomed to a life of depression, insane behavior, and continually trying to find refuge in a bottle. Did't matter where I had to go, what I had to do or who with as long as the drink was in the mix. The desease kept me from growing up, going to school, learning a trade. When I ws fourty-four years old I was living at the edge of the world with shopping bags and a crusty blanket. Today I'm self employed, but, fully employed by God in the twelve steps. In that solution daily I find no depression and no desire to drink. Thank you, for sharing this site. thank you AA!
Member: Linda P (Traveler)
Location: CA, USA
Date: 16 Aug 1998
Time: 14:42:26
Hi, Linda an alcoholic.
Appears there is more than one topic? Since it is the first one here that leads, I will address Jeff's topic, I beleive is gratitude for recovery. I too am grateful for this life I have sober. Life before AA was miserable. Although getting sober and continuing for years in abstinance one-day-at-a-time, there have been those moments when I was not in that frame of mind. As a speaker I heard recently say, AA helps us to live in reality. So with its ups and downs, I have learned to live through any situation sober. That makes me one grateful alcoholic. Thanks for letting me share.
P.S. - treasurer, the money is on the way. I am very grateful to be a member of this group and have the previlege to support efforts to keep this meeting available to me and to all those who visit here. Thanks for the swell job your doing here.
Member: Babs
Location: Ca.
Date: 16 Aug 1998
Time: 15:36:34
Hello Everyone, My name is Babs and I am an alcoholic .(powerless over people, places,places,things, alcohol and drugs.) I am so gratefull to find this sight. After drinking and taking scripts for a little over a year with numerous attempts to get back to sobriety, I will by the grace of God have 30days next Tuesday. Iwas so afraid that after I srarted to feel better I would waltz out of the rooms again. Iam pretty sure I drank enough to stay here. I visit this site every chance I get, surrounding my self with sober people, both f,2,f and virtual. I thank God for each moment I am sober. Thank you all for your expierence, strength and hope. If there are any other newcomers or re treads like me remember keep comming back, I hang on to that and it helps, along with the steps and my sponcer.
Member: RICK
Location: OHIO
Date: 16 Aug 1998
Time: 19:57:08
Hello this my first time here.i cant stop drinking.i last for about 3-5 days im 25 been drinking hard since about 16 its killing my life me and my wife split up often because of beer.she also has a problem im going for help she will not.im scared for my kids and us.my wife and i have been to gether since 16.it was all fun then but almost cost us are life 2 days ago in a car i was drunk kids were at home.sled off the road at high speed.i think i can do it.but how do i get her to get help.
Member: Rita J.
Location: Indy
Date: 16 Aug 1998
Time: 20:16:08
Hi everyone, Rita, alcoholic. Grateful for this site, and have 7 days by the grace of God. Gratitude for my chance to come back to these rooms and let everyone know that it is still the same out there. Also know that you can be of no help to anyone unless you are square yourself. Grateful to me is being pulled over and two hours later blowing into the breathalizer and coming up .4 and still alive, not killing anyone or myself except for John Barleycorn consumtion. I too have a friend that refuses to get help or acknowledge he has a problem, yet he insists on calling me for help. He's broke, behind in rent and bills, wrecked his car. and got a DUI and asked for a jury trial (of all things:DENIAL), and was found guilty and must pay or face jail. What a mess. Glad it's not me. Can't let him ruin my recovery. What do I say to say goodbye?? Should call my sponser. Hey, there's an idea!! Thanks for letting me ramble, Humbly, Me
Member: Ross S.
Location: S.D.
Date: 16 Aug 1998
Time: 21:46:15
Ross here - alcoholic. It is truly great to be free of alcohol and to be grateful for it. Only by the grace of God is that so. It has taken many 24 hours in order to come to this way of thinking. So I think I will simply hang around for the next 24 hour period and let the miracle happen and again be grateful for it. ~ Easy does it.~
Member: Bruce
Location: Toronto, Canada.
Date: 16 Aug 1998
Time: 21:48:40
My name is Bruce and I am an alcoholic. am new to the web ad am very excited about finding this meeting. After 13 and a half years of soberity I'd like to say thank-you all for being there for me. It's theself support that keeps the meetings alive. As my sponsor says put in the price of a drink and you won't have to buy a drink. If your new try to ask for help in the morning, say thank-you at night, and get to a meeting. Keep it that simple, and can join us in the fellowship of the spirt as we sometimer trudge the road to happy destiny Keep coming back.
Member: Robert F.
Location: Taiwan
Date: 16 Aug 1998
Time: 21:51:32
Rick, Look in the phonebook or call directory assistance and ask for the number of Alcolholics Anonymous in your area. There should be someone there to talk with you. Tell them what you have shared with us here on the net. They will direct you to a meeting, possibly even send someone to take you to a meeting.Don't think about it, just do it. God Bless.
Member: Christine M.
Location: Bayville, NJ
Date: 16 Aug 1998
Time: 22:04:58
Hi, my name is Christine and I am an alcoholic. On the topic of Gratitude:
When I first got sentenced to AA through the courts about nine years ago now, I wasn't grateful at all. Thought the whole world was out to get me (something I have come to call a jailhouse attitude after spending much time volunteering in prisons), had a huge chip on my shoulder, but figured I had to do my "AA" time. I used to hear people talk about how "Grateful" they were and I would say to myself "Yeah, I would be grateful too, if I had that boyfriend, with that Harley, with that good job, with that body, with that car, with whatever....." It has been almost nine years now and I have all of those things, have had and lost some and had some and did't think they were so hot, and came to realize that none of the "outside" things will "fix" me. Today I am grateful that I have come to know myself and come to like myself as a person today and come to love myself like I never thought I was worthy of.
I also used to hear people say that they had a life "second to none". I wished I had a life second to none. I thought my life would be second to none if I had that boyfriend, with that Harley, or that job, or that body.....Today my life, with all it's imperfections, financial hardships, trials and tribulations, is second to none, because it is mine and I have worked for it. I have a wonderful husband and we are both in our first sober and HONEST relationships of our lives. Oh, we have our troubles but this is something I never dreamed that I would have. Never thought I would meet a man that would love me just like I am. I always thought I would have to put on an act to have some guy like me. Something else I heard when I was first coming around was this:
People would get up at the podium and say, "Five years ago, if I could have painted a picture of what I wanted my life to be like, I would have been selling myself short." I can now agree with that statement. I always thought I was destined for failure. Growing up in an abusive, drunken household. My father always told me I was nothing and would always be. So as a drunk I set out to prove him right. I figured I was a drunk, a bum, so why bother to do anything. If someone tells you long enough that you are nothing you start to believe it yourself. After I got sober, I set out to prove him wrong. I haven't found the cure for any fatal diseases or invented a longer lasting lightbulb, but I have found that I am genuinely a kind and caring person.
I forget exactly how the saying goes but it goes something like this:
I may not be the woman that I should be, I may not even be the woman that I could be but thank God that I am not the woman that I used to be.
Each and every day I take one step closer to being the woman that I want to become, and for that I am grateful.
Bab, just a quick note, I have always heard that it is not how much you drank but what it did to you when you drank that was the issue. Just wanted to share that.
Rick, you are in the right place. Don't concern yourself with whether or not your wife gets help, just take care of yourself.
And to all those that visit here, please feel free to visit the "coffee pot" for more sober socializing not in a meeting format.
Love and Peace,
Christine M.
Member: Bill G.
Location: Texas
Date: 16 Aug 1998
Time: 22:15:04
Hi everyone! Bill-alcoholic. Rick, you can't MAKE your wife get help if she doesn't want it, but you can get help for yourself. Look under "Alcoholics Anonymous" in the white pages and make that call! Web sites are great, but there is no substitute for talking to another alcoholic face to face. My wife still drinks too. I don't like it but I'm powerless over her. I ask my Higher Power to help ME stay sober and leave it in His hands. Good luck and GOD BLESS! B.G. P.S. Treasurer, the check's in the mail. Honest!
Member: Jim M.
Location: K.C.
Date: 16 Aug 1998
Time: 22:16:00
Rick----You can go to this site and get the phone numbers for AA help.http:www.recovery.org/aa/.God Bless.
Member: Doug F
Location: Cullman ; Al
Date: 16 Aug 1998
Time: 22:23:07
Hi ; Im Doug Im an alcolholic and glad I am. It"s my first time at this meeting. I have 4 Yrs under my hat but I only have today and thankful of it. To all you new comers . If you put as much effort into your program as you did in triing to stay drunk thangs will come to you pretty easily. Get a sponcer and talk to that person daily.
P.S. I Love God and every one of you.l
Member: Trish M.
Location:
Date: 16 Aug 1998
Time: 23:56:07
Hi everyone! I still can't get over the fact that we AA's are able to contact, give to and receive from each other all sorts of valuable...valuable help. It amazes me. We can pick up the phone, go over a friends, go on a twelve step call, attend a meeting, speak on at a commitment,...visit almost anywhere and whom do we run into?...another drunk. I have a communication or 'transmission line' with any real drunk; whether or not they're in recovery, though I do hang with the recovering ones. I can't save anyone and no one or group of people can save me. I admit that I have a tendency to cause trouble or chaos in my life and make it impossible at time by either not knowing how to, or by refusing to accept life on its terms and not mine. Learning to accept that I cannot control people, places, events or things has been quite painful. I'll tell you it wasn't any easier to accept that I have an allergic reaction to alcohol. I consume alcohol in any form whatsoever into my body any I lose all my chooses...that first drink demands another and another and on and on it goes...and, alone I can't escape. The most difficult truth, for me, that I need to accept is that I need a power greater than myself and greater than people. Why? because even though I haven't drank today and I've put almost two years together...not drinking "One Day At A Time," I will drink again without the intervention and strength of a power greater than myself. I'm 100% powerless over alcohol, which means that often for me I need to be willing to accept the "unacceptable", willing to believe in the "incomprehensibe" and be willing to forgive and let go of all control over the "uncontrollable." As someone has already said, "We trudge the road of happy destiny." I hope to be forever grateful for and accepting of these two precious gifts: A relationship with God, personal to me and my sobriety. It was you AA's who told me to always be willing to surrender to win...and thank you sooooooooo...very, very much. With all my love.
Member: Diane
Location: Northwest Hills of CT
Date: 17 Aug 1998
Time: 00:20:28
Hello Everyone! I'm Diane, an alcoholic, sobriety date 4/11/98.
Today my Aunt sent me an E-Mail. Just some chat. When she ended her note she wrote, "You sound very happy Di". I wrote her back and said, "I AM VERY HAPPY. Not just because I am NOT drinking, but because of all that I've learned and continue to learn about myself, and about having a Higher Power in my life, and about living one day at a time, and about being GRATEFUL for whatever comes my way, including the downs, because they're all meant for a reason."
Thank you my AA family. I am truly GRATEFUL for you!
Member: Jeff C
Location: The Big Sky Country
Date: 17 Aug 1998
Time: 01:28:33
Hello everyone! It is kind of late so I will make this short. I am also grateful to be sober. Alcoholism runs in my family and my brother has been sober for around 10 years, my mother for around a year, my aunt and uncle and myself for almost 6 months. I used to live in New Hampshire thats where I got sober. I moved back to my home state (Montana) and am working for my dad on our cattle ranch. I think my higher power works miracles. Because there is no answer or explaination for all of us getting sober except for the "being sick and tired of being sick and tired." It to me three DUIs, numerous physical and verbal fights and everything else that comes with being an alcoholic. I just wanted to say that the only way in the world that I am sober today is because of AA along with every alcoholic sharing soberity with me today. I said this would be short but I could go on and on. Thanks for listening! Keep It Simple Stupid. One Day at a Time!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Member: Jack R.
Location: Oregon
Date: 17 Aug 1998
Time: 02:21:33
Hello to all! Its good to have found this site. My sobriety date is Nov. 2nd, 1993. RICK - I wanted to let you know that there is a way to change for the better - sometimes quickly and sometimes slowly. Bill G. of Texas wrote thoughts similiar to what I believe. Please "hang in there" and take just one day at a time. For me, I sometimes need to take one hour or even one minute at a time, but those times add up. Just wanted you to know that I'm wishing the best for you.
God bless. Jack R.
Member: Chuck M.
Location: Olympia WA late of VA
Date: 17 Aug 1998
Time: 03:39:31
Hi everyone, especially Rick & Rita, my name is Chuck and I'm an alcoholic. I finished a 22 year Naval Career in l973, entered AA in May of 1975, and have been sober ever since. As an old Sailor, I'm used to obeying the regulations. But this time I'm not going to. I think trying to give something to Rick who's trying to get sober, and Rita, who's trying to get through her second week, is a bit more important than talking about money. If there isn't enough money to keep this meeting open unless contributions increase, that's what needs to be said. Spending a week talking about World Service's need for money reminds me too much of Oral, Jerry, and Pat. Five minutes of "program" and 55 minutes of increasing the coffers. If World services wants more money, let them sell the Archives and the expensive building they're housed in. Archives are an ego-trip which make our organization precisely like any other organization, they do nothing for the still suffering alcoholic. (private gripe of course, not representing the "voice of AA" :)).
As for Rick, his wife, and Rita - If you are alcoholic like I am, and you continue to drink, your life is going to go further downhill. Not only do I know that, *you* know it also. If you are an alcolic like I am, and you stay in AA, doing what is suggested, your life is going to go uphill. *You* know that as well. So the only question is, how to you stay in a place where you do not need a drink? How do you stay in a place where you feel so good about being sober that you actually do not have any reason to drink?
Quite simply, you stay willing to grow along spiritual lines. That's not only what keeps your membership in AA current, it's what keeps you calm, serene, and at home in the universe with a clearcut formula for getting back to that state every time any form of mental anguish pulls you away from it. (Im not preaching here, I know this because I have lived it for 23 years and it works) Read what Dr. Bob kept on his desk in the form of a plaque:
"Humility is perpetual quietness of heart. It is to have no trouble. It is never to be fretted or vexed, irritable or sore; to wonder at nothing that is done to me, to feel nothing done against me. It is to be at rest when nobody praises me, and when I am blamed or despised, it is to have a blessed home in myself where I can go in and shut the door and kneel to my Father in secret and be at peace, as in a deep sea of calmness, when all about is seeming trouble." (Dr. B&TGOT page 222)
That, Rick and Rita, is where the program of Alcoholics Anonymous is supposed to take us, if we remain willing to go there. That place, IMO, is the Pearl of great price and the Treasure in the field, spoken about by a Master teacher of spiritual matters many years ago.
The first page of step 7 in the 12 & 12 says:
" . . . the attainment of greater humility is the foundation principle of each of A.A.'s Twelve Steps. For without some degree of humility, no alcoholic can stay sober at all. Nearly all A.A.'s have found too, that unless they develop much more of this precious quality than may be required just for sobriety, they still haven't much chance of becoming truly happy. Without it, they cannot live to much useful purpose, or, in adversity, be able to summon the faith that can meet any emergency."
So, Rick and Rita, since you can't strive to become humble without winding up being proud of how humble you are becoming, how do you get to humility?
You make use of your mental anguish. When you make the decision in step three to turn your will and your life over to the care of God as you understand God, what you are doing is agreeing to give up your right to be miserable. No-one can stop being miserable so long as they have a right to be miserable - that's the way we are designed.
So, to end my misery, I first must see that I don't have a right to it. And throwing all my eggs in the basket that a Perfectly Loving, Perfectly Understanding, Perfectly Wise and True Set of Higher Powers, Higher Power, or God if you will, abides in some way congruently and usefully within our physical universe, and turning my will and life over to the care of that Entity, logically and finally takes away my right to be miserable.
Any time I am upset, any time I have lost my serenity, I need only go back to Step three and ask myself, "okay Chuck, how do you look at this miserable feeling if you still want to continue to implement the decision you made 23 years ago? And the answer will be, 99.9 times out of 100, that my pain exists because I am not trusting that God knows what God is doing in my life and in everybody elses, or quite simply, I am upset because I am not getting my way. If it is the first case. I need to pray and meditate until my God is real to me once again. If it is the second case, I need to remember that it makes a lot of sense for me to say, "I'm not getting my way in my life," but it makes no sense at all to say, "God's not getting God's way in my life." If God is all wise, then God knows how to keep me happy and I do not know how to do that (look where my best efforts got me). And since I also don't know how to grow my soul, I'd better trust that God does and is putting me through precisely what I need to go through in order for me to get the growth my soul needs for this lifetime. That is the way to return to serenity and peace-of-mind, Rick and Rita, and the way to distance yourselves from the need for a drink. If you are willing to opt for humility (willing to grow along spiritual lines) then you will not mind that the process is humbling and each time you have to change some thinking in order to return to serenity a bit more ego will have fallen away (You are free to meditate upon this if you would like to: There is a reward for the ego in all mental anguish. If there wasn't we wouldn't entertain mental anguish within us for a moment.) That great sense of importance and specialness is not my friend, it is my drinking-buddy-enemy. My friend is the truth found in the realization that I am not better than, I am not worse than, I am one of . . .
Life became a piece of cake for me, Rick and Rita, when I came to realize that mental anguish was just as important for the growth and protection of my soul or awareness, as was physical pain for the growth and protection of my physical body. When I lean against a hot stove, I get a great message from Mother Nature telling me I'd better change the direction of my actions. When I try to hold onto resentments as excuses for remaining all screwed up, I get a great message from Father God telling me that if I want to quit hurting I'd better change my thinking about what is important in being alive.
Peace to you Rick, Rita, and any others who get something out of this post. The program works!
Member: Andrew A
Location: South Africa
Date: 17 Aug 1998
Time: 05:47:55
Hello everyone ! I agree many of the views exprsssed by Chuck. Rick, you need immediate intervention ! This very minute ! Your drinking or using must stop - dead in its tracks - right now ! To drink is to die ! Get help this very minute. As suggested by Chuck, you may phone up an AA member right now. See the Web sight as suggested - WWW.recovery.org/aa/. As soon as practically possible - get admitted to an AA oriented treatment centre. This is of utmost importance ! Sell your car, house , anything, and just get there. Spend nothing less than three to four weeks. This is a fatal disease. I know - because I did walk your path myself.
Diane, I agree with your statements about gratitude. It is of paramount importance. I am sober since 10 April 1998. Same as you (?). However, we must remember we are in recovery a day at a time. I am sober for today and I am grateful. Since 10 April 1998, I have been doing a meeting a day. I haven't yet stopped.
To everyone, the Fellowship has helped me find a new found freedom. Thanks to each and everyone of you. Best wishes.
Andrew.
Member: Jim J.
Location: MS Gulf Coast
Date: 17 Aug 1998
Time: 08:42:40
I'm JIm, an alcoholic. For those who who are still fighting the booze. STOP FIGHTING .There is a chapter in the BB that helps me a lot, Ch.'2'(There is a solution). At the bottom of page 25 is the description of where I was when I got here 10-6-86. Thank you all for being here. Jim J.
Member: Stan C.
Location: Belle Fourche, SD
Date: 17 Aug 1998
Time: 09:47:42
Hi everybody, I' an alcoholic and my problem is Stan. Any time I share in a meeting, I open with "I am grateful to be sober today." Those words are heard often, but I try to speak them from the heart every time, because I REALLY AM GRATEFUL. It took me four to seven years (hard to remember exactly,) of trying after I realized I could no longer drink and live. I used to come to these rooms and see the excitement, hope, and peace in the eyes of program people, get all excited, and then Crash! Somebody would say the "G" word. I knew I was lost if it took faith in God to get sober, 'cuz I figured God was taking a long vacation. When I finally drove myself to that point of "complete and utter dispair," I found myself talking to the sky, saying "Man I don't know anything about you, don't know if you are there, and if you are I am really pissed off at you, but I can't do this s#*@t anymore. I am ready to take your help if you are willing to give it." Wow! The guy that everybody was sure was born to lose, born to fail, and born to lie about every second of the experience, hasn't found it necessary to drink since.
For all the newcomers, thank you for being here, 'cuz you're the most important people on this page. If I don't find some way to "freely give away what I received," my sobriety suffers. I can stay dry and not use the program, but I sure don't reccommend it. Sobriety is so much more than not drinking. It is a way of life (for me) that makes living bearable and even worthwhile. 'Never was a material guy, never mainstream, and never wanted to be. I have found that in sobriety, I can still wear my hair down to wherever, listen to loud music, and howl at the full moon. I don't have to be one of the dreaded "normies" that I'll never understand.
Keep coming back, y'all, and do some praying when you can. In matters of spirit, I was told early to "fake it till ya make it," and it still holds true.
I am not recovered, my life is not perfect, and I don't think the BB has the answers to all my problems. The BB does, howver, have the SOLUTIONS to all my problems. Answers are given to me, solutions require footwork. I'll gratefully take another 24, and hope that everyone gets what they need today. Prayers to all who still suffer, both in and out of the program...Stan
Member: Judy S.
Location: Jackson, AL
Date: 17 Aug 1998
Time: 14:12:33
Hi. I'm Judy and I'm an alcoholic. My sobriety date is 08/09/97. Just got my 1-year medallion last week.
I am GRATEFUL that the week before my sobriety birthday I got something that helped me LOTS! A group has laminated Page 30 in the Big Book "More about Alcoholism". They read it as part of the opening of each meeting. Boy am I GRATEFUL I volunteered to read that day; furthermore, I got to read what I needed most of all to hear: Alcoholism is like the man who lost his legs. You don't grow back new legs. You don't ever get cured of the effect alcohol has on you. I'll bet plenty of other folks have confronted that little delusion.
I am GRATEFUL for this program: for you folks who share honestly of yourselves, trusting me to take what will help me on my own way, trusting me to grow and be able to give to others of my self. Thanks for that.
Member: Jodene Alcoholic
Location: OKC
Date: 17 Aug 1998
Time: 15:01:32
Member: Kent H.
Location: Tennessee
Date: 17 Aug 1998
Time: 16:59:10
Hi, y'all, I'm a gratefully recovering alcoholic. To the newcomers: please remember to NEVER GIVE UP! Even if those you love continue to drink, hang in there. If they are ready to quit, nothing you tell them will be wrong; if they aren't ready, nothing you tell them will be right. Just don't drink and keep coming to meetings. Even if you relapse, KEEP COMING BACK. I had to go through Hell several times before I was genuinely ready to take these simple steps. You would think that divorce, joblessness, jails, hospitals, and utter hopelessness would have been enough to keep me in the program....but no, I had to go out and try, try again. Not only was I miserable, but alcohol wasn't the least bit fun any more. I am so glad that I don't have to go through all that any more! You don't either. Welcome to a wonderful way of life. It's better than you can possibly imagine. Peace and Love to all of you out there!
Member: Lisa C.
Location: MA
Date: 17 Aug 1998
Time: 17:13:07
Lisa , alcoholic. I'm grateful that I found this site. I get a lot of knowledge and support from all of you. Rick, I'm sorry that you're suffering, you've come to the right place. As for your wife, there is a program called Al-Anon for relatives and friends of alcoholics. Their purpose is to help you deal with someone else's alcohlism. I'm sure if you do a search you will be able to find it on the web. Keep coming back !!!!! Lisa.
Member: Frank
Location: Mpls
Date: 17 Aug 1998
Time: 17:14:47
Boy! so early in the week and SOO much discussion! Must have been a long week end :-) Any way, i am curious about peoples opinion of Neer Beer or "non Alcolic" beer. Personally, I believe it's a set up, to drink and cope with urges thinking "at least it's 'Non alcolic'." then in fasct there is less than 1% alcohol in it. What are others opinions on this matter. Will listen with a open, and non judgemental ear to all responses (naturally!)
Member: Big-Frank
Location: Willow-Grove,Pa.
Date: 17 Aug 1998
Time: 17:41:20
Hey-Frank, Alcohol is Alcohol regardless of % so you dont even think about Drinking it. Remember Blind Men Dont Go To The Movies!!
Member: Ted B.
Location: Montreal
Date: 17 Aug 1998
Time: 17:53:22
Hi, I'm Ted and I'm an alcoholic. After 18 months in the program, I'm only beginning to scratch the surface on gratitude, because I'm only beginning to scratch the surface on humility, and I get the impression that one doesn't come without the other. Much smashing of ego still to be done. They say pride is digestible, but whenever I try to swallow mine it still goes down like a sewing kit. Anyway, I'm better today than I was yesterday. Hey, RICK, there's a lot of people out there wanting to know how you're doing. Even if you're doing shitty, cut yourself a slice of pride and let us know. It's better than isolating yourself. FRANK, whether it's a deliberate set-up or not, I know that non-alcoholic beer could easily set ME up to make the leap to a real one. Besides, it tastes like a skunk's arse. I'm speculating, of course(about the skunk's arse).
Member: Tracy M
Location: California
Date: 17 Aug 1998
Time: 21:24:47
Hi I Tracy and Im an alcoholic in the same boat as Rick. I want desperately to stop but my husband doesn't. It's so hard to be around alcohol, but I know that I have to stop. I have a day and a half so far which is probably the most time I've spent sober in four years. I am grateful for that. I spent my first sleepless night with my faithful dog in my lap, enjoying being sober. Wish me luck!
Member: Jim S
Location: IDAHO
Date: 17 Aug 1998
Time: 23:33:35
hi jim iam an alcholic hey rick i can remember my last drunk like it yesterday that was over five years ago dont worry what tommorrow will bring live life today let your HP do tommorrows worring because tommorrow is always tommorrow you will help your family more by example than anything else you are powerless over other people but HP aint so turn it over to him and pray
Member: Leslie
Location: Texas
Date: 17 Aug 1998
Time: 23:47:35
I'm Leslie an Alcoholic. When I first got sober I remember thinking How many near beers can I accidentally drink to get drunk. Just drinking those would make this alcoholic want to go for that initial warm fuzzy feeling which would eventually lead to the gross nauseated drooling feeling. This site kept me out of myself tonight Thanks
Member: Mary D.
Location: Seattle
Date: 17 Aug 1998
Time: 23:57:51
Hi everybody! I'm an alcoholic and my name is Mary. Through the grace of my Higher Power and this fellowship, I celebated 11 x 365 this year! To Rick and Rita and Tracy..I hope you're still reading, and I hope you'll come back and join us. Much of what we say - especially the abbreviations - may not make much sense, but all you really have to do is not pick up a drink - an hour at a time. A couple of postings have referred to "truging the road of happy destiny." That's a line from our "textbook" - we call it the Big Book (or BB on these pages). Notice that it says "trudge" - not run or skip or anything lighfooted, but trudge...which kind of implies there's some work involved, right? I love the paragraph those words come from, and if the others will bear with me (because they've all heard it before) this is what I wish tonigh for Rick, and Rita and Tracy...and anyone else out there who hasn't found the courage to sign on..."Abandon yourself to God as you understand God. Admit your faults to him and your fellows. Clear away the wreckage of your past. Give freely of what you find, and join us. We shall be with you in the Fellowship of the Spirit, and you will surely meet some of us as you trudge the Road of Happy Destiny". May God bless you and keep you until then". (BB page 164) luv to all, Grandma Mary
Member: Robert H.
Location: California
Date: 18 Aug 1998
Time: 00:25:10
My name is Bobby H. and want to thank all of you envolved through this program of ours. Many years of drinking and trouble was a hard lesson for me because I didn't want to give it up that easy. But it got worse when the desease started to kick-in. I ended up wrecking and a trip to the hospital. But that wasn't enough because I started to get DUI's with 7 that landed me in prison. It was there that I got down on my knees and asked for help. It's been 32 months with the help of you people in AA. I just want to thank you all.
Member: Donna F.
Location: Carlsbad, New Mexico
Date: 18 Aug 1998
Time: 01:30:57
Donna F. here a grateful alcoholic. Whenever the subject of gratitude comes up it brings to mind my first 2.5 years of sobriety. It was white knuckled sobriety, done with church and\or religion and psychotherapy. I had never been to a 12-step meeting. After the great fall (relapse) I stumbled into the rooms of AA and began to rack up some time. When I looked back on that first 2.5 years I asked myself what was different in that time of being sober and the next 2.5 years of being sober. The answer, (yes I answer myself too.) was gratitude. The first time around I thought to myself, "Look what I have managed to do." but the next trip around I knew that My Higher Power, whom I choose to call Jesus Christ, had done for me what I could not do for myself. The absent substance was gratitute. Today the gratitude is always there. I have but to hesitate for a second and the tears come to my eyes, because not everyone gets a second chance and I feel like I had the first, second and third. Recovery has been so very good to me. I do my best to give freely what has been given freely to me. Thanks to the fellowship of AA and my HP I have been without a drink, a pill, a snort, a joint or any other mind altering substance since 7-8-89. Thanks for being here for me this evening.
Member: Cindy S
Location: San Jose, CA
Date: 18 Aug 1998
Time: 02:18:59
Thanks to everyone that has shared so far (especially Grandma Mary for your wisdom to take it right out of the book.) One of the big things that they said around here when I got sober was, "You know what it's like to drink...spend 90 days of your life to find out what it's like to not drink...then decide for yourself." That was over 15 years ago and no matter what happens...sober it's better!
Member: John R.
Location: Central Valley, Ca
Date: 18 Aug 1998
Time: 05:48:58
Member: John R.
Location: Ca, central valley
Date: 18 Aug 1998
Time: 05:51:05
Is there really a meeting going on at this time of night? I sure do appreciate reading the comments so far. I am 3 months sober and just hanging on tonight.
Member: John R.
Location: ca
Date: 18 Aug 1998
Time: 05:54:29
I would love to correspond with other recovering people...I am 45, married, a high school teacher. Hrothgar@lightspeed.net
Member: Art B.
Location: New Haven, Ct
Date: 18 Aug 1998
Time: 06:16:54
Good Morning, and it is a good morning. Thanks to A.A. I'm not hungover this morning. I sometimes lose site of the simple things. The longer I stay sober the more I learn that I really don't know anything. One day at a time and pray. I really need to improve my contact with the God of my understanding. The work of this program is doing the next right thing and the right things are the hardest. I've been sober for nearly seven years and I've decided to do a 90 and 90 just for a tune up. It works.
Member: Martina G
Location: CT
Date: 18 Aug 1998
Time: 07:35:28
Hi - My name is Martina and I am a very grateful alcoholic. Grateful that I can face each day and myself without the horror of alcohol ruining my chances to face another.
Rick -- you sound desperate --- that is good. Commit yourself to at least one meeting every day (if there is one every day in your area. if not then go to as many as are available). No excuses, just do it. Get a sponsor. Do NOT think, just put one foot in front of the other and get there. Invite your wife, but if she won't go, do what is the right thing and go yourself regardless. Do WHATEVER you have to do to put your sobriety FIRST. All good things will follow, as you can surely tell from reading the sharing that others do here. You are young and have an opportunity to have a full and happy life. The way is clear. I pray that you will follow it. Post here as often as you have to. Take it easy and a day at a time. We have all been where you are at and we care about you.
God Bless you.
Member: Kent H.
Location: TN
Date: 18 Aug 1998
Time: 09:35:46
Hey folks! This is Kent, still gratefully recovering. About "near beer"....isn't that like "pretending to drink" and isn't that just playing games with your sobriety? For this alcoholic, sobriety is far too crucial to play games with. Besides, that stuff really does taste pretty awful. There are far too many relapse triggers out there already (I've stumbled several times myself) ; this is one you can easily avoid. Hope everyone out there has a sober day! Hugs.
Member: Bob C.
Location: Calgary
Date: 18 Aug 1998
Time: 16:16:46
Bob C.,alcoholic. Thinking it's all right to drink this "near beer" is like thinking it's allright to smoke dope as long as you don't inhale. WHAT'S THE POINT? I agree with Kent. Sobriety is a matter of life and death for me and I can't afford to be taking chance. Alcohol is alcohol,even if it's just a tiny,tiny little bit. As far as the 7th goes, when I first came in the best way I had of helping to carry the message to the still suffering alcoholic was by throwing something in the basket,even if all I could afford was a nickel. It was a small step towards responsibility. For me,anyways.It also put the gratitude I felt into action.It allowed me to start being a giver rather then a taker.
Member: Ed B
Location: Sonora,CA.
Date: 18 Aug 1998
Time: 18:28:19
hi I'm Ed B. and i am an alcoholic. I think it is amazing that there is something like this going on. this morning I woke up and thanked God for allowing me to wake to another day Sober. I proceeded to drive down to the prison in the next town to carry the message and i am so grateful that when i was through i was able to walk out of there with one of the most important gifts that i have received from A.A.-my Freedom!! I am blessed to be here and although it has been a few 24 hours since i came to, i look at it this way- i woke up at 6:00a.m. this morning; everybody who woke up earlier than that has been sober longer than me because all i have is today. thanks for being here for me as i am for you.
Member: Judy S.
Location: Pennsylvania
Date: 18 Aug 1998
Time: 18:46:11
Hi everyone. My name is Judy and I am an alcoholic. You have all shared such great thoughts but Rick stirred many memories. Memories I never want to forget: the car accidents, the arrests, the miserable marriages, and my behavior around my children. This week I was a witness to a car accident that involved my daughter's girl friend. I was walking and heard the screeching of tires, turned, and saw the car careen aroung a curve smashing into a house. I ran over to the car, afraid of what I was going to see. My daughter's friend opened the door and tried to stand. I took one look at her and knew... She was so drunk she didn't even know she was hurt. Her eyes were the worst. I remember having eyes like that- dark, dead, with no life in them. I knew I was looking at myself. The accident bothered me for days. Fortunately, the young girl will recover.- for how long I don't know. I know that she must go through what she must..I know I had to. So Rick, the suggestions that eveyone has stated will lead you to a better place- one step at a time. Good luck Rick, and thank you all for being there.
Member: Karen M.
Location: N.J.
Date: 18 Aug 1998
Time: 20:05:42
For anyone who is struggling with not drinking, this is a one day at a time program. You only have to not drink today, and when you've made it through, make the same commitment the next day. Get to an AA meeting every day, tell people that you are new, get a Big Book and read it. The first step is surrender, not fighting. Give up the fight. Alcoholism is a disease of the body, mind and spirit. It can't be controlled by intellect, strong will power or any of that. You have to admit that you are powerless over alcohol and that your life is unmanageable. If you can do that, you can get and stay sober. Good luck from one very grateful sober alcoholic.
Member: Mike 1.
Location: Huntsville, ala
Date: 18 Aug 1998
Time: 20:32:28
Near beer almost killed me 10 years ago, I guess i should have known, but even the insanity of chugging near-beer didn't give me a clue. It took 90 days to make it back, by God's grace, and working the steps and the program I have remained. God bless and keep you
Member: Edmo
Location: Jersey Shore
Date: 18 Aug 1998
Time: 20:37:37
First time at the website. Just coming off a four day binge...I'm aware of people , places and things, but after this extended weekend the people I drank with will never drink with me again. The place I was at threw me out. When it comes to things, well, I'm still looking for my car. But I'm very grateful to still have my wife and I'm very grateful that I wasn't home and that my children didn't see me this way. Anyway three years are down the drain, but I have a lifetime to go. I am so grateful to find this website and to be allowed back home to use this computer. Gotta go to a CD meeting. Rick, you must worry about yourself cause you can't help anyone else until you help yourself first. Non alcholic trouble, non alcholic beer started this binge to a certain extent. See you all again soon.
Member: Edmo
Location: Jersey Shore
Date: 18 Aug 1998
Time: 20:37:54
First time at the website. Just coming off a four day binge...I'm aware of people , places and things, but after this extended weekend the people I drank with will never drink with me again. The place I was at threw me out. When it comes to things, well, I'm still looking for my car. But I'm very grateful to still have my wife and I'm very grateful that I wasn't home and that my children didn't see me this way. Anyway three years are down the drain, but I have a lifetime to go. I am so grateful to find this website and to be allowed back home to use this computer. Gotta go to a CD meeting. Rick, you must worry about yourself cause you can't help anyone else until you help yourself first. Non alcholic trouble, non alcholic beer started this binge to a certain extent. See you all again soon.
Member: Lew H.
Location: Northern Michigan
Date: 18 Aug 1998
Time: 21:23:04
Hi, My name is Lew and I'm an alcoholic. This is my first time on the site, mainly because I just got onto the internet. I'm grateful to share worldwide. Ive been sober a little over six years. I think I'm just going to listen for a few days and then jump in with both feet. Tnx, Lew
Member: Art P.
Location: New Bern
Date: 18 Aug 1998
Time: 22:44:55
Hey John R. KEEP ON HANGIN! ON ODAAT!!! God bless.
Member: Cindy G
Location: San Diego
Date: 18 Aug 1998
Time: 22:50:53
Hi, my name is Cindy and I'm an alcoholic. I've never been to a meeting on the internet before, this is kinda weird! Are you all really out there? It's hard to believe this is for real. I've been sober for 9 months now and it seems like I'm starting to go backwards. Is this normal, can anyone answer my question? Please advise
Thank you for letting me blab
Member: Stewart B.
Location: TX
Date: 18 Aug 1998
Time: 23:44:19
My name is Stewart, and I'm a grateful alcoholic. This is my first experience with an online meeting; it really is a little odd, but it feels just like a meeting. When I came to AA in January of 1988, I heard some people say that they were grateful alcoholics, and I thought it was the most bizarre statement I had ever heard. Who could be grateful for a life like this? How could anyone be grateful to be this kind of mess? I didn't realize then that my life didn't have to be like that, and I didn't have to be a mess. I'm still learning how not to. Nobody gets here because everything is peachy. We get to AA because everything we tried to do to make us okay didn't work. Our Big Book tells me that it won't ever work, not if I'm an alcoholic. I don't know if it does for those others out there (I suspect they're pretty much like us) but I know that doing it my way won't ever work for me. AA teaches me to do it another way, God's way. That works. Other people tried to explain to me how to have this kind of life, but I couldn't understand it until I heard it from drunks. I still understand better that way. Guess I'm a drunk! If this is the door I have to come in by, then I'm just glad there's a door here for me. Keep comin' back, so you can get through the crazy parts and get to the gratitude. And thanks, for all of you.
Member: tony g
Location: ma
Date: 19 Aug 1998
Time: 02:16:12
tony alcohol,yes cindy we are out here so that means your not alone its just a different type of meeting,if anyone picks up just one good thing its al worth it.Frank,near beer and relapse go together,dont you think?Im grateful for being alcoholic,because if it didnt drag me thruogh all the horrid things it did i dont know if i would be living the humble,yet quality lifestyle i live now.i try to stay gratful to the little things the everyday things i sometimes take for granted food,clothes,my job family,friends it goes on and on.yes Im very grateful. and grateful for all of yu you make things easier so,THANK YOU ....
Member: Connie
Location: Missouri
Date: 19 Aug 1998
Time: 03:30:53
Hi my name is Connie and I am an alcoholic,
First on Non-alcoholic beer, folks in my neck of the woods would say it was a slip and they would start their whole program over again, all over drinking non-alcoholic beer. The subject of gratitude. I love this topic, cause today I make a list of what I am grateful almost everyday even if it is just a list in my head. I am grateful to be in the rooms of AA before I started my family. Kids are so hard to handle at times being sober, I surely wouldn't want to test my grounds being drunk, so I thank god everyday for the gift he has given me today. I have so many friends that are true to me, not once that use me for what they want then kiss my friendship goodbye. I have a wonderful husband whom I put through some obstacles when we were first married and even though my sober days of trying to figure out who I was. I am also very grateful for being in the rooms of Alcoholics Anonymous cause that is where I started to grow up to become the person I have always wanted to be, to feel feelings I have always hid, to be honest and true to myself and people around me. These rooms show so much beauty of all different kind of people, and I love all kind of people.
Keep coming back all you folks new to this site and new to AA. Try the coffee pot too, that like a chat room.
Thanks for letting me share, love in the room, connie
Member: Sandy L.
Location: Shelton, WA.
Date: 19 Aug 1998
Time: 09:29:33
Hi everyone! My name is Sandy and I am an alcoholic. I am so grateful to begin the day drinking coffee, being sober, and reading through all of your messages. Thanks for all of your wisdom and your stories. I have been back in the program for 2 1/2 years after being gone from meetings. I did not drink 'regular beer' or drinks, but I drank 'near beer' it was 'near' enough for me. I started over after 10+ years. Today I am very grateful to be sober. I am grateful to have a daughter who is clean and sober after 3 near fatal suicide attempts. Being sober and working the steps means everything to me. I have had a brush with insanity several times - hospitalizations, electric shock treatments, you name it. I now take medication to regulate that condition and go to meetings and work my program to keep me sane and reasonably happy. I am in school learning to be a computer tech. I am almost 56 and starting over once again. Some times I despair at starting over again - and sometimes I rejoice at being able to start over again. Today, I think I will thank God for all of you and for one more day clean and sober. Thanks Sandy Shelton, WA.
Member: Shannon G
Location: St. Albert AB
Date: 19 Aug 1998
Time: 15:15:51
Hi from canada. My name is Shannon and I am an alcoholic.First time on web site.On non al beer,the mind is a funny thing why play games with it , on graditude,I sobered up when my oldest boy was 18 months old today he is 11 going on 18 but I am so happy to be given the chance to watch him grow and to be a part of his life. He won his first hockey championship,and Iwatched the other parent experiece there joy for there kids all I could do was thank GOD for my sobriety for without it I have nothing.
Member: Mark A.
Location: Walla Walla WA
Date: 19 Aug 1998
Time: 16:04:55
I'm Mark an alcoholic, I am now 43 days sober after a 4 year relapse. I thought I could run my life again and maybe smoke and drink on weekends. Right, in less than 90 days I was in it everyday all day. I am grateful just to have been awkened once again have the chance to recover again.
Member: Eddie D.
Location: NJ
Date: 19 Aug 1998
Time: 18:29:54
Hi all Eddie D. And I,m an alcoholic Gratitude is hard for me today. I am living on page 449 in the big book.
Member: Kim P.
Location: Northern Minnesota
Date: 19 Aug 1998
Time: 20:20:50
Hi I'm Kim and I'm a grateful alcoholic, sober today by the grace of God and the fellowship and miracle of AA.This is my first time on the net but I've logged many hours around the tables. I agree that Rick shouldn't be consumed by his wifes problems but should take care of himself first. As for the gentleman (sorry not good with names) who just came off of the binge you have today and it is beautiful. Thank you for allowing this opportunity to share this moment with you.God bless you all.
Member: Mark L.
Location: Seattle
Date: 19 Aug 1998
Time: 21:59:12
Not much to say this time - except everyone's so damn grateful :-) I wish I could be so grateful all the time.
You're all an inspiration!
Member: Sandy L.
Location: Shelton
Date: 20 Aug 1998
Time: 09:53:31
Hello, I'm Sandy and I am an alcoholic. Thank you for being here. I had such a great day yesterday. The day before was really the pits. Starting the day off yesterday reading all of your comments was a great start to the day. Thank you, all of you. Hang in there, all of you who are struggling today. I love you. Sandy
Member: Barbara G
Location: Ca.
Date: 20 Aug 1998
Time: 09:59:51
Good Morning everyone. I feel like I am in a home group everytime I log on. Seeing everyone share with so much honesty confirms that I once again have taken the right path. I hope I am not posting too often. This is like my meeting before my meeting and after Prayer and reading B.B. and a few other A.A. books I feel ready to begin my day. Reading about life as it happens to all of us(sometimes good, sometimes hard)helps me know I am a part of. Not worse than or better than. I heard on a tape that being in the middle of a.a. is a hard place to find a coctail. So gratefull to be a part of. God bless all of you and this websight. Hugs to all Barbs.
Member: Glenn W.
Location: NJ
Date: 20 Aug 1998
Time: 10:44:07
Hi, my name is Glenn and I'm an alcoholic. Havinging a tuff day today. Just got off phone with sponser but felt I needed more. Although I'm a terrible typist, (and speller), I need to be here. This is my first time at this meeting. I spent sometime going through the format I just need to be in touch with other AA's. Never new this site was here.
Have to stay at home to wait for "important delivery". Can't get to meeting till that comes. Trying to hang on the best I can but I want to not feel today. That means I want to DRINK... I know that will only make my situataion worse yet the thought is there. Justwanted to share a little. Thanks for listening!!!
Member: Steve C
Location: Virginia
Date: 20 Aug 1998
Time: 10:49:31
Hello, my name is Steven and I'm an alcoholic. I've only been sober for 36 hours. I've gone to a local counseling center, and my doctor for help. I plan to attend my first meeting tonight.
I live in very rural area, so the amount of meetings are limited. I'm grateful for on-line areas, such as this.
This won't been my first time in AA. In 1991 I got sober, and it lasted for 5 years. I've been on a 2 year bender, and I hurt, and I'm scared.
Steve, in Virginia
Member: David X.
Location: Oregon
Date: 20 Aug 1998
Time: 12:18:51
Hi,
I'm David, sober 10 years, then relapsed (!), now starting AA. I am grateful to have recognized I can't do it on my own. I really need some sober friends. I've been sober this time for 7 days.
Bye
Member: Yvonne F.
Location: Chicago
Date: 20 Aug 1998
Time: 16:48:26
Wow!This is my first time to this site. Reading thru' all the comments really stirs up a lot of memories and thoughts.I really feel for those just starting out or relapsing. With 11 years of sobriety,and reading thru' the remarks, the message is so simple, but so true, and that is we are recovering and never recovered.While it's been 11 yrs. since a drink, I am still as vulnerable as the guy who has had an hour of sobriety. In response to Christine M.from Bayville, NJ, dated Aug. 16th, you go girl! I loved all the things you shared. I felt proud of you when I finished reading your stuff and I don't even know you!
Member: Melissamjm
Location:
Date: 20 Aug 1998
Time: 23:01:51
Hello everyone. Well, tonight I am having a real bad night. I feel like I am going to fall apart any minute. I have been having such misxed emotions - and I am not really sure how I should feel. All I know is, is that sometime I think I can't live sober and I can't live as an addict either. I have been trying to give this sober thing a chance but nights like tonight I just get the /uck it's and a real screwed up attitude. I just hope things start getting better. Being clean I have been trying to learn about melissa, and you no what, I am not quite sure I like being clean and being the real melissa. Sincerly, Scared and lost, Melissa. Thanks for listening.
Member: Melissamjm
Location: East Haven, CT
Date: 20 Aug 1998
Time: 23:02:18
Hello everyone. Well, tonight I am having a real bad night. I feel like I am going to fall apart any minute. I have been having such misxed emotions - and I am not really sure how I should feel. All I know is, is that sometime I think I can't live sober and I can't live as an addict either. I have been trying to give this sober thing a chance but nights like tonight I just get the /uck it's and a real screwed up attitude. I just hope things start getting better. Being clean I have been trying to learn about melissa, and you no what, I am not quite sure I like being clean and being the real melissa. Sincerly, Scared and lost, Melissa. Thanks for listening.
Member: Joel H
Location: CO
Date: 21 Aug 1998
Time: 00:38:25
Hello everyone, I'm Joel and I'm a alcoholic. I have been sober for 35 days and feel better every day. I don't have to much advice since I am still kind of new at this but, Melissa be strong. You have been down the drunk path and know what it's like. As for trying to find yourself, keep looking, and don't be dishearted. I'm still trying to find myself and have been for along time, and most likely will be for some time to come. Which is fine I'm in no hurry. I'm true to myself and the people I love that's the important thing to me now. Thanks to all and take care. Joel
Member: tony g
Location: ma
Date: 21 Aug 1998
Time: 00:51:51
melissa,relax dont go so hard on yourself,get a book(the big book?)and read it.make a cup of tea,take a bath,just try to chill,youll be fine.also you have to be patient,go to a meeting A.S.A.P. it will help being with other people who might not be sure if they like themselfs too.just for today dont give in! you can do it!keep me posted. God bless you.
Member: tony g
Location: ma
Date: 21 Aug 1998
Time: 00:52:17
melissa,relax dont go so hard on yourself,get a book(the big book?)and read it.make a cup of tea,take a bath,just try to chill,youll be fine.also you have to be patient,go to a meeting A.S.A.P. it will help being with other people who might not be sure if they like themselfs too.just for today dont give in! you can do it!keep me posted. God bless you.
Member: Frank B
Location: Hotlanta
Date: 21 Aug 1998
Time: 01:07:22
Hello, my name is Frank, and I'm a stober alcoholic. Getting late here on the East Coast, but thought I'd put my two cents in afor' my prayers. Joel, congrats on the 35 days! I've got 5 now, but been around the AA block couple of times now. Take my word, don't go back--1/2 a glass of champagne New Year's Eve 1997 took until 5 days ago to get away from (and it's only been qty 5 24hrs at this point). It's true it hits you with a vengeance; I almost doubled my daily intake (which seemed impossible). Melissa, hopefully you're asleep by now and not Jones'n, but in time you'll probably come to appreciate the "real Melissa" a lot better than the old one (heck, shouldn't take much to better the previous life, right? Bad day sober/clean beats the best day ever using--and it was never a whole day!) New Melissa will just need some time and TLC to welcome back to the real world. Alright everybody, we're an hour into our 24hrs here in the East; let's keep it up NATIONWIDE! Meekfully inheriting the Earth, Frank
Member: Doug F
Location: Kenner, LA
Date: 21 Aug 1998
Time: 09:45:35
Hi, i'm Doug, an alcoholic. Gratitude always seems to be a topic I run into at D meetings. I am grateful for new life. It doesn't sound like much, but it's from the bottom of my heart. I can do things I couldn't do before eg: Talk with loved ones-not at them, Live life 'cuz it's life now- not a train ride to the next drink or drug, Pray and know that it's a real prayer- not some sick hoax to get what I want. I can't explain it in words, really, so I hope Y'all understand. I'm grateful that the pain from drinking and drugging is behind me. As to the people who are having a rough go, A friend once told me" A war is won in inches, not miles. Take a step and stand your ground." And that has helped me to remain patient when I wasn't feeling very patient in my own progress.
Member: Andrew
Location: South Africa
Date: 21 Aug 1998
Time: 14:06:22
Hi everyone !
Keep coming back ! There is nothing like it ! Never give up ! Quitters are winners - winners never quit ! Sorry about sloganising ... I have little time.
Best wishes to everyone in recovery.
Member: Andrew
Location: South Africa
Date: 21 Aug 1998
Time: 14:06:50
Hi everyone !
Keep coming back ! There is nothing like it ! Never give up ! Quitters are winners - winners never quit ! Sorry about sloganising ... I have little time.
Best wishes to everyone in recovery.
Member: Robert B.
Location: San Jose, CA
Date: 21 Aug 1998
Time: 15:19:55
Hi! I'm Robert, an alcoholic. I've been sober 14 years now, and the longer I stay sober, the more I know that sober is the only way for this alkie. Whenever I get around anything that has to do with the Program, I feel a sense of peace grow in me that smoothes out the cares and problems of the day. It's great to have AA online now. I'm really glad these meetings are here. And it is true for me that my worst day sober is better than my best day drunk. All the comments I read here remind me of that.
I noticed Cindy's comment about her 9-month blues. That happened to me, and it turned out to be a blessing. That was when a friend in the Program told me to REALLY do the Third Step, and that was when it clicked!
Thanks to all for being here!
Member: Brenda F.
Location:
Date: 21 Aug 1998
Time: 17:04:52
Member: Brenda F.
Location: New York
Date: 21 Aug 1998
Time: 17:14:25
Hi My name is brenda I am an alcoholic. I am full of gratitude today for my fairytale of a life that i've aquired since getting sober. The circumstances are not always great but the tools i have to deal with the ups and downs of life are better than i ever imagined they could be. I love sobriety today. When i first got sober I felt like my life was over that all the fun in life was through. i didn't realize that life was just starting. just by attending meetings reguarly, sharing HONESTLY with a sponsor(not so easy) bieng Honest with myself also (not so easy) reaching out to others and getting into the steps I have found a great quality of life and true peace within myself. i am so grateful for AA I dont know where I would be withou it. Thanks for this meeting on line to. I'm away from my hometown and I ccant get to a meeting face to face so coming here has helped give me my daily dose of medicine .
Member: Deena N.
Location: St. Louis, MO
Date: 21 Aug 1998
Time: 17:32:05
Hi my name is Deena and I'm an alcoholic! I am 12 days sober and a great fog seems to be lifting from my brain. My main problem at this point is getting to mettings. I am a single mom who works full time - not many babysitting meetings out there. So this is a great alternative. A am involved with a great guy who is still drinking - (I'm not trying to cure him) but so much of our relationship was drinking that I know I'm walking a tight rope to continue this relationship. He is coming over tomorrow to swim and I'm sure drink a few beers in the process - almost sounds to inviting - I will be white knuckling it for sure. Greatful to be sober today. Thanks to AA for all the support.
Member: Brian H.
Location: Hamilton, Ontario. Canada
Date: 21 Aug 1998
Time: 22:11:01
Hi Everyone. Brian here, alcoholic. You know what worries me ? As I approach my 10th month anniversary date, I occasionally wake up in a cold sweat. In a dream, I've been drinking again. When full consciousness returns and I realise that it was just a dream (nightmare ?), I thank my Higher Power for the sobriety I've found through the miracle of A.A. I usually don't remember my dreams, but this type of "drinking again" dream really scares me. Thanks for listening. I pray for a successful 24 hours of alcohol-free living for you all.
Member: Linda M
Location:
Date: 21 Aug 1998
Time: 22:17:51
Hi, Linda alcoholic. Deena, don't forget to ask for help from your Higher Power, even if you're not sure one exists--it worked for me when I stopped drinking and my husband didn't. He wasn't too happy about it either. But thanks to AA I now have 9 years of sobriety and I wouldn't trade my life sober for my old life for anything! I'll be praying for you and anyone else here who is struggling (can't remember all the names and it's my bedtime)God loves you all and so do I. Linda
Member: Jeff
Location: The First State
Date: 21 Aug 1998
Time: 23:07:48
I'm still an alcoholic. Sober since March and loving it. I take it a day at a time, reminding myself daily who and what I was. For years I only had one friend, ALCOHOL. Wanting to quit time and time again,,, I lost everytime. Until, I found AA. Now I have found my higher power and have turned my will over to him. This is what I'm grateful for,,, The chance to be sober. Thats it!!! Just to be sober,, Everything else is second. Thats for letting me share....
Member: Sharon A.
Location: Maine
Date: 21 Aug 1998
Time: 23:21:48
Hi everyone. My name is Sharon and I am an alcoholic. This is my first visit to this website and I'm grateful to all who maintain and contribute to the site. Jeff, I hope you make it back to read some of the responses people have sent you. I would like to add that your wife will have to find her own way into the rooms of AA to begin her sober journey. Keep the focus on yourself and stay away from a drink or a drug a day at a time and you will find a happiness you never thought possible.
Member: Christine M.
Location: Bayville, NJ
Date: 22 Aug 1998
Time: 01:10:24
Hi Everyone! My name is Christine and I am an alcoholic.
O.K., so I know I already posted for this week but I had just had to come back and share how impressed I am with the honesty of the newcomers on this site. To MELISSA in CT and Steve in VA: admitting that you are scared, hurt, lost is just the kind of "rigorous honesty" that is necessary to be successful in this program. I have to commend both of you on your soulful honesty. When I was new and for many years after I wouldn't admit that I was scared if you held a gun to my head. I was too busy trying to "look good" in this program. You know, there is nothing wrong with feeling scared, lost and lonely. I think we all are. I think it is part of the disease maybe or just characteristics of the alcoholic. The fact that you have admitted it sets you free. The truth shall set you free. We are only as sick as our secrets. So be scared, and go to meetings and get a sponsor and share what you are feeling with them. Share it at discussion meetings. You never know how many other "scared" alcoholics are sitting there scared to death, but ready to open there mouth and share how grateful they are and how they now are "happy, joyous and free". I know, because I was one. You will never know how many other alcoholics you will touch and help by sharing your hurts and fears. Don't just share the good stuff. And TONY G in MA, your advice to Melissa warms my heart. The fact that you are from my home state doesn't hurt either.
YVONNE in Chicago, I am glad you enjoyed my earlier post. Good to hear from you.
BRENDA F. in NY had some good stuff to share about honesty. Good to hear from you.
Anyways, that's enough for me this week. I am just so pleased to see so many people new and coming back. It takes so much courage to get in here and even more to come back. Courage that I don't have. I was sentenced through the courts and never left. Good thing, too, because I don't know if I would have the courage to come back. Welcome back, Steve, and any others who finally made it back here. Give yourself a break. This stuff really gets good if you give it some time. Don't you think you finally deserve something good?
I am proud of all the newcomers and those coming back. Now that you are here, stay here. Let's not make this coming back thing a habit.
Love and Peace,
Christine M.
Member: Joe "Hawk" H.
Location: Kaiserslatern, Germany
Date: 22 Aug 1998
Time: 03:17:08
Hi Every one my name is Joe but most call me Hawk iam defiantely an alcohlic my soberity date is 1-1-90 i have made decision that have not been wise and im currently in a mental blank spot there is two people that i trust right now. the thing that really surprises me is when i go to the meetings here in germany and share where im at and whats going on (with tears for the last week) and in the end I am grateful for my soberity for my succes as well as my failuers yes even my failuers for the fact there have purpose allso Thanks for being here and im looking forward to becoming a member
Member: MARK L
Location: S.I.,N,Y
Date: 22 Aug 1998
Time: 03:35:42
Hi Mark alcoholic I just want to share 2 things that happened in my vacation. A had made 6 out 8 meetings in maine. 1st thing they did was allow me to qualifly on my last nite there. 2nd I traveled to another part of Maine, someone asked me if I was a friend of Bill W., I was wearing my aa hat and tee-shirt I told him I think I advertise very well for him and how can I help ya? I need a meeting bad! I told him I was from NY but had a meeting book, he was excited and thanked me. This just shows me where ever you go in this program you will always find one of us doing the work,giving it away. SOBRIETY,FELLOWSHIP, SERVICE AND FAITH THIS IS WHAT OUR PROGRAM IS ABOUT! tHANKS AND i LUV YAS
Member: Richard V.
Location: Denver, Co.
Date: 22 Aug 1998
Time: 04:29:01
Richard, Alcoholic. New on the web for about a week. Learning from my mistakes on this keyboard. I hope I will make since. Melissa, hang in there. What your going through is normal for us A.A. members. If your new to soberity your going through growing pain. The first year is the hardest, Thats why A.A. gives so many birthday chips the 1st year. Talk to your sponsor. Its good that you can share this. Take care.
Member: Richard V.
Location:
Date: 22 Aug 1998
Time: 04:31:46
Member: THERESE
Location:
Date: 22 Aug 1998
Time: 12:37:00
Dear ALL. Thank you all so much for helping me it is such a miracle to have this discussion meeting in my own home.There are only two meetings a week near me,this is such an added bonus.To all the new comers AA is filled with such love WORLDWIDE.If you don't pick up that first drink just for 24hrs life does get better. God bless all. THERESE.
Member: JIM C
Location: WA
Date: 22 Aug 1998
Time: 14:38:12
Im Jim an alcoholic this is my first time in this room but i have been in and out of aa since 1979 when i went on the advice of another college classmate. I had to hit that emotional,physical bottom before i could make any progress in the program. Once again i had 5 months on aug 20 I have a sponsor that not tells me what i want to hear at times but what i need to hear. Thanks for letting me share
Member: Deena N
Location: St. Louis MO
Date: 22 Aug 1998
Time: 23:43:32
Hi - My name is Deena and I am an alcoholic - I commented on Friday about my fears of a day buy the pool with easy access to alcohol - Well - I made it and I feel that I made it through a very tempting situation that I shouldn't put myself in very often. Anyway for today I made it - It;s been 2 weeks - I still haven't gotten a sponsor and can't make it to many meetings (no babysitting) - I don't really have the courage to ask for a sponsor - This fear of rejection thing - Anyway best sign off - sober another day. WHAT AN ACCOMPLISHMENT!!! Deenad