Member: BarryS
Location: McComb, Mississippi
Date: 15 Mar 1998
Time: 06:31:52

Comments

This is my first time to access your site. I will be looking forward to participating in the different meetings.I understand they run from 12 noon Sunday until 12 P.M. Saturday night. I wish everyone a happy, exciting, and wonderful sober day.

Yours in the fellowship, Barry S


Member: Suzanne H.
Location: Ontario Canada
Date: 15 Mar 1998
Time: 09:56:25

Comments

What a great morning!

I like the "new look"

To all involved with running "Staying Cyber", Thank You!


Member: mark d
Location:
Date: 15 Mar 1998
Time: 10:48:06

Comments

hey cyber techies......cool thingy ya hacked out here.....and now a bit of history from the 2nd Edition......powerless mark..

>From "The Professor and the Paradox:"

"The Four Paradoxes of A.A.

1. We SURRENDER TO WIN. On the face of it, surrendering certainly does not seem like winning. But it is in A.A. Only after we have come to the end of our rope, hit a stone wall in some aspect of our lives beyond which we can go no further; only when we hit "bottom" in despair and surrender, can we accomplish sobriety which we could never accomplish before. We must, and we do, surrender in order to win.

2. We GIVE AWAY TO KEEP. That seems absurd and untrue. How can you keep anything if you give it away? But in order to keep whatever it is we get in A.A., we must go about giving it away to others, for no fees or rewards of any kind. When we cannot afford to give away what we have received so freely in A.A., we had better get ready for our next "drunk." It will happen every time. We ve got to continue to give it away in order to keep it.

3. We SUFFER TO GET WELL. There is no way to escape the terrible suffering of remorse and regret and shame and embarrassment which starts us on the road to getting well from our affliction. There is no new way to shake out a hangover. It s painful. And for us, necessarily so. I told this to a friend of mine as he sat weaving to and fro on the side of the bed, in terrible shape, about to die for some paraldehyde. I said, "Lost John - that s his nickname - "Lost John, you know you re going to have to do a certain amount of shaking sooner or later." "Well," he said, "for God s sake let s make it later!" We suffer to get well.

4. We DIE TO LIVE. That is a beautiful paradox straight out of the Biblical idea of being "born again" or "in losing one s life to find it." When we work at our Twelve Steps, the old life of guzzling and fuzzy thinking, and all that goes with it, gradually dies, and we acquire a different and a better way of life. As our shortcomings are removed, one life of us dies, and another life of us lives. We in A.A. die to live.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 2d ed, (1955): 341-42


Member: Chuck B
Location:
Date: 15 Mar 1998
Time: 11:56:07

Comments

Nice site. I come back again!


Member: Staying Cyber Tech
Location: Barry L
Date: 15 Mar 1998
Time: 12:07:07

Comments

To answer your question Barry S the meetings are closed for Posting from noon Saturday til noon Sunday, this give us tech's a reasonable window to refresh the meetings(we both have day jobs).


Member: mark d
Location:
Date: 15 Mar 1998
Time: 12:11:48

Comments

Lot's of links.......all personally approved by me!

humor
http://www.webfooted.com/humoranonymous.htm
just for today
http://www.geocities.com/HotSprings/1934/jft.html
AA History & Trivia
http://www.geocities.com/HotSprings/1934/
Lamplighter's e-mail group
http://www.commspec.com/resources/lls.htm
my personal fave
http://www.primenet.com/~bbbunch
slogans
http://members.aol.com/powerless/kewl.htm
e-mail mtgs
http://aa-intergroup.org/email.html
acoa alanon etc
http://recovery.netwiz.net/index.html
http://www.Al-Anon-Alateen.org/
BB index
http://www.moscow.com/Resources/SelfHelp/AA/bbidx/
AA mtg list (ftf)
http://www.soberspace.com/region.htm
day counter
http://falcon.cc.ukans.edu/cgiwrap/wsimon/time.pl


Member: Patti A.
Location: Santa Rosa, CA
Date: 15 Mar 1998
Time: 12:42:51

Comments

Hi, Patti, alcoholic. I am trying to change my attitude about change. I am in it and have so much fear about it. I am using a trick a sponsor taught me, using a timer. Everytime it goes off I am checking myself and reminding myself that this change can be the easiest and one of the more exciting things I have done. I really need to counteract the way I think about it. Also, have a new temp sponsor. I haven't had one for a while. Yours in sobriety, Patti


Member: Jhon L.
Location: chicago ill
Date: 15 Mar 1998
Time: 13:20:15

Comments

Hello , got up this morning and had a beer , seen the article on suntimes chicago , youre site , so i came in to see ,whats up


Member: John   L
Location: Chicago
Date: 15 Mar 1998
Time: 13:23:41

Comments

this takes too long , i wish it was a room , were people talk , dont have the pacieance to be waiting for an answer, I need my fix fast. remember i'm an alc.


Member: Tom G.
Location: Chantilly, Va.   USA
Date: 15 Mar 1998
Time: 13:30:28

Comments

Hey, a BBS type post meeting.... Kewl....:O) Click there to visit my website --> http://www.erols.com/thegoz/ Tom G.


Member: Cliff G.
Location: Duluth, MN
Date: 15 Mar 1998
Time: 15:02:38

Comments

I just found this site today. I am glad it is here. I will use it as another recovery resource. As an alki, I can't have enough insurance.


Member: Pat M.
Location: Arizona
Date: 15 Mar 1998
Time: 15:59:46

Comments

Hi! My name is Pat and I'm an alcoholic. I've been reading everyone.And thought I"d say Hello. It's so good to be connected to A.A. this way.


Member: Jim M.
Location: NW Ohio
Date: 15 Mar 1998
Time: 16:08:22

Comments

According to the neat Sobriety Calculator page I am a miracle who has been sober 3385 days today! My response: Thank you HP and AA. I don't know why and even how but I am glad to be alive today and sober!


Member: Anthony M.
Location: portjervis NY
Date: 15 Mar 1998
Time: 16:44:44

Comments

hi my name is Anthony and i'm a alcholic i've been sober for a little over 8 month's now. I just got this page in the mail the other day from a friend.This is great.I'm just glad to be alive


Member: Erv W.
Location: Adams Wi..
Date: 15 Mar 1998
Time: 16:52:09

Comments

Tim G., thanks for answering me.. When I got into the sight nothing came up.. But I have it now !!! Go figure hey ?? Ok Tim, again thanks.. Your friend in sobriety Erv W..


Member: Anthony M.
Location: portjervis NY.
Date: 15 Mar 1998
Time: 16:53:36

Comments

i'm anthony and i'm still a alcholic.I will be comeing hear every day just for that exter little bust if theres anyone in my nighberhood let me know


Member: A.M.
Location:
Date: 15 Mar 1998
Time: 17:33:31

Comments


Member: Patti A.
Location: Santa Rosa, CA
Date: 15 Mar 1998
Time: 18:17:21

Comments

Hi. I hurt my back and have not been able to go to meetings for a while. It is the first time in 15 years of recovery that I have ever let myself get as isolated as I am. I got very depressed, stopped answering my phone and didn't reach out. Some friends have stepped in, introduced me to this site, got me connected to a temporary sponsor. Any other suggestions? I'm lost, confused and feel very stuck. Thanks.


Member: Robb W.
Location: Mississauga,Ontario,Canada
Date: 15 Mar 1998
Time: 19:38:17

Comments

Hi! Robb, alcoholic. Just a little addition to the paradox's Mark presented. A speaker at the Ontario Regional Conference talked about the fact that "Losers are winners" A winner is a loser that keeps trying. As someone who has been around A.A. since 1982 and just recieved my one year medallion Nov. 1, 1997 I can relate to that!! Thanks for letting me share. Robb


Member: mary w.
Location: kiss in Ks
Date: 16 Mar 1998
Time: 00:17:08

Comments

whoa, what a change !!! the old thinking ( the alkie way) was to freak out. recovery thinking kicked in and said hey great ! looked for last weeks coffee pot in archives and can't find it.

jrr, peace to you big ole teddy bear, FYI, kansas has wheat fields by a vast majority. in fact my home is situated in the middle of one. however, i did grow up in illinois and was surrounded by corn fields, so maybe you could hear some of that old corn field in me. by the way, before i caught on to you, copped a resntment and did the resentment prayer on you, (i had a friend who thought it wrong to pray for serenity and all that - so he always prayed for a blond and a bass boat in resentment prayers ) so enjoy the serenity and when the brunette stud and the lamborgini show up send them my way!!!!!!!!!!

hugs and more hugs to all,

mary w.

ps, am i on the membership of this group? hope so.....


Member: geoff g
Location: melbourne florida
Date: 16 Mar 1998
Time: 00:18:13

Comments

hi - my name is geoff and i am in need of some kind of online sponsor, someone to answer simple specific questions to help me with my sobriety. if anyone could direct me somewhere or something of the sort it would be greatly appreciated. i have 45 days under my belt. just looking for ways to keep that number growing.


Member: Didda J.
Location: London/England
Date: 16 Mar 1998
Time: 01:23:00

Comments

Hi, this all looks nice. Thank you Stayingcyber people! Must admit that I got abit baffled when at first there was nothing in my favorites that answered, but hey! cant mess up a good thing! All the best ya'all! And have a beautyfull week, I'll be in Ireland for st.Pat! Never visited there before and am really looking forward to going. Love and all ... Didda


Member: Joni R.
Location: Altoona, Pa.
Date: 16 Mar 1998
Time: 02:36:52

Comments

Hi everybody. I just want to say that I am very happy to have the opportunity to talk online with you all. I am like mary w. and hope that I am a member. To John L. I think that you want help, but are undecided about losing your best friend. (alcohol). You are standing on the fence and I feel that it's progress. At this time you have a choice to live or die. Please keep in mind that death occurs many different ways not just the physical. Relationships die, respect for your self and others dies, relationships with family members die, and the most important your purpose in life may never be realized. Society teaches us that to be a worthwhile person you must be successful. The truth is you are born worthwhile and that is what will help you make your choices beneficial to you. You deserve a good healthy life, we all do. All you have to do is belive it. Thanks to all those who talk on this line. I am sure I will learn a great deal from all you. God bless and help you carry the message.


Member: john M.
Location: west tennessee
Date: 16 Mar 1998
Time: 02:45:02

Comments

great site......i will be checking in.

john M.


Member: Martina G
Location:
Date: 16 Mar 1998
Time: 07:49:15

Comments

Hi Everyone --- Mark -- good stuff. I made it through my awful week and still sober. Happy to see the sun today but even if it was raining, I'm sober, so it doesn't matter. Patti, it's really harder when you have physical problems but keep reading and asking for help. I'll pray for you.

Another hard week for me on the horizion, but all I have to worry about is right now.


Member: mark d
Location:
Date: 16 Mar 1998
Time: 08:05:02

Comments

geoff write me private qyitkaos@anv.net powerless mark


Member: J.L.
Location: Massachusetts
Date: 16 Mar 1998
Time: 08:44:38

Comments

Hi! My name is Jay and I am an alcoholic.

Just wanted to drop a line to claim my seat. I am feeling pretty well, looking forward to a test I am having on Wednesday which will determine the course for my physical recovery. (I had an accident last November and am still in the process of being put back together, with any luck, and alot of prayers).

For Patti A. in Santa Rosa:

It sounds like your friends care about you alot and are trying to do the right thing. You may want to contact Central Service in your area to see if they have a list of "volunteers" who are willing to visit with people that are either in the hospital or homebound and can't get to ftf (face to face) meetings. Maybe you could "volunteer" to do some service work via the telephone or the Net. Nothing gets us outside ourselves and back to basics like working with others. My prayers are with you. J.L.

For Kelley C. in Chicago:

How are things going with you. As you can tell I am doing well "today". I hope things are well with you and that your Higher Power has a speedy recovery in store for you. My prayers go with you. Yours in recovery. J.L.


Member: Kelley C.
Location: Chicago
Date: 16 Mar 1998
Time: 10:44:30

Comments

Hi, Kelley C here, recovering alcoholic/addict. I'm glad to back at my computer talking with my people.

To Patti in Santa Rosa: I, too, am recuperating at home and unable to attend ftf meetings. This space has been a god/dess send. J. L. from Massachusetts has often encouraged me, certainly understood me, and knows the pain/frustration and lonliness of physical recovery. I was hit, as a pedestrian, by a moving vehicle last December. Through the grace of God/the universe the only injury I suffered were multiple fractures of the tibia and fibula. The fractures were, however, compound and I lost significant levels of bone and skin (the tissue died and I had to get a muscle graft). The long and short of it is....I'm still not walking and am still homebound and mostly isolated. I empathize with your sense of lonliness and am sorry that you are experiencing the trauma of physical recuperation. I have discovered, however, that in the length of recovery I have had time to evaluate my life, to create things that I didn't have time for and rediscover the wonder of my life (wonder in both ways....the joy of life and pondering what the hell is going on here and what fresh hell is likely to befall me next). As you can tell, I'm not always grateful (and at times angry), but god/the universe/the goddess, whatever, has been gracious enough to laugh at my arrogance and love my nerve. Anyway, keep posting or you can write to me directly at kelleyc@ameritech.net if you would like.

To J.L. in MA: HI. IT IS SO GOOD TO HEAR FROM YOU. I am doing better and you sound terrific. I was recently allowed to begin initial weight bearing and the external fixator is going to be surgically removed one week from tomorrow. I will either come to with a cast in place or without a cast. (I'm hoping for no cast...but I'll take whatever is most likely to get me to the point of full recovery). Anyway...you sound terrific. Again..I still picture your angels spreading their healing wings around you and granting you health. You have been (and continue to be) a voice of encouragement to me. Thank you. You likewise can write to me directly if you wish at kelleyc@ameritech.net.

To everyone: Great site and god bless you all in recovery.


Member: Ray C
Location: Mn.
Date: 16 Mar 1998
Time: 12:16:01

Comments

If anyone would like to join an On-line Group of Recovering Alcoholics, send e-mail to OpenmindAA-request@majordom.net Put 'subscribe' in the subject line, then put 'subscribe openmindaa' in the message box and transmit. We are a group of 40 people, men and women, who believe that respect and common courtesy is the order of the day. We follow the steps and traditions and we share with each other, 24 hrs. a day, 7 days a week. Share as often as you like...! Thanks Maybe this message will stay posted at the Coffee Pot for more than one Day...??? TheMusicMan@stones.com


Member: Rayt C.
Location: Mn
Date: 16 Mar 1998
Time: 12:19:31

Comments

The Address for OpenMindAA is Openmindaa-request@majordomo.net, not majordom... Sorry about that.....


Member: LOUIS
Location: GATINEAU,QUEBEC,CANADA
Date: 16 Mar 1998
Time: 13:53:50

Comments

LOUIS,ALCOHOLIC. PERRY H. COULD YOU PLEASE LET ME KNOW WHO DO I MAKE THE CHEQUE "PAYABLE TO" FOR THE "PASS THE HAT" CONTRIBUTION? THANKS. lmxuser1@hotmail.com


Member: LOUIS
Location: GATINEAU,QUEBEC,CANADA
Date: 16 Mar 1998
Time: 13:54:23

Comments

LOUIS,ALCOHOLIC. PERRY H. COULD YOU PLEASE LET ME KNOW WHO DO I MAKE THE CHEQUE "PAYABLE TO" FOR THE "PASS THE HAT" CONTRIBUTION? THANKS. lmxuser1@hotmail.com


Member: jrr
Location: harmony by the Lake
Date: 16 Mar 1998
Time: 17:50:45

Comments

Well--helloooo room! gotta love this stuff...first off,welcome to the newcomers / re-treads..just stay in; to hell with being around,that is like looking at a cathouse for 6yrs and wondering if you do it on your own with props, it will resemble what is inside the cathouse...actually I don't know how it was said, but that was close...

Any way, to all those recuperating : I was hurt on 8/15/95 and still recovering from injuries,lately we're talking surgery and loss of job after only getting back on my feet 6 mos. ago...I try to stay positive and in today, but the crazies creep, and they told me to work with others, on the phone if neccesary ,better still take the time to look at me ,soo...here we go again; get the paper and pen,maw, time to 'rite this stuff down..

geoff---SoberChef1@aol.com----anytime. get with someone sober ,who has a sponsor, it will work...I promise .

And mary w. in the ----fields , what a smile you gave me today.LOL you are quite a gal..how am I supposed to know about corn or wheat, we have both up here ...besides I live on a frozen tundra , Lake Erie , part of the Arctic Cap !! I get to see green (brown?) 2 mos.a yr.

you are welcome to write also ..address above. My friend tells me ," she is just like me , your done !" whatever..women still baffle me... Anyway BIG SPECIAL HUG..mary w. and stay like my friend...she's one of the best I've ever met...sober too,..quite a few...just like you ! hell...I don't need to resentful to pray for a nice car...I'll take one that starts consistently! stay sober all ....peace, jrr


Member: jrr
Location: harmony by the Lake
Date: 16 Mar 1998
Time: 17:51:01

Comments

Well--helloooo room! gotta love this stuff...first off,welcome to the newcomers / re-treads..just stay in; to hell with being around,that is like looking at a cathouse for 6yrs and wondering if you do it on your own with props, it will resemble what is inside the cathouse...actually I don't know how it was said, but that was close...

Any way, to all those recuperating : I was hurt on 8/15/95 and still recovering from injuries,lately we're talking surgery and loss of job after only getting back on my feet 6 mos. ago...I try to stay positive and in today, but the crazies creep, and they told me to work with others, on the phone if neccesary ,better still take the time to look at me ,soo...here we go again; get the paper and pen,maw, time to 'rite this stuff down..

geoff---SoberChef1@aol.com----anytime. get with someone sober ,who has a sponsor, it will work...I promise .

And mary w. in the ----fields , what a smile you gave me today.LOL you are quite a gal..how am I supposed to know about corn or wheat, we have both up here ...besides I live on a frozen tundra , Lake Erie , part of the Arctic Cap !! I get to see green (brown?) 2 mos.a yr.

you are welcome to write also ..address above. My friend tells me ," she is just like me , your done !" whatever..women still baffle me... Anyway BIG SPECIAL HUG..mary w. and stay like my friend...she's one of the best I've ever met...sober too,..quite a few...just like you ! hell...I don't need to resentful to pray for a nice car...I'll take one that starts consistently! stay sober all ....peace, jrr


Member: jrr
Location: harmony by the Lake
Date: 16 Mar 1998
Time: 17:51:15

Comments

Well--helloooo room! gotta love this stuff...first off,welcome to the newcomers / re-treads..just stay in; to hell with being around,that is like looking at a cathouse for 6yrs and wondering if you do it on your own with props, it will resemble what is inside the cathouse...actually I don't know how it was said, but that was close...

Any way, to all those recuperating : I was hurt on 8/15/95 and still recovering from injuries,lately we're talking surgery and loss of job after only getting back on my feet 6 mos. ago...I try to stay positive and in today, but the crazies creep, and they told me to work with others, on the phone if neccesary ,better still take the time to look at me ,soo...here we go again; get the paper and pen,maw, time to 'rite this stuff down..

geoff---SoberChef1@aol.com----anytime. get with someone sober ,who has a sponsor, it will work...I promise .

And mary w. in the ----fields , what a smile you gave me today.LOL you are quite a gal..how am I supposed to know about corn or wheat, we have both up here ...besides I live on a frozen tundra , Lake Erie , part of the Arctic Cap !! I get to see green (brown?) 2 mos.a yr.

you are welcome to write also ..address above. My friend tells me ," she is just like me , your done !" whatever..women still baffle me... Anyway BIG SPECIAL HUG..mary w. and stay like my friend...she's one of the best I've ever met...sober too,..quite a few...just like you ! hell...I don't need to resentful to pray for a nice car...I'll take one that starts consistently! stay sober all ....peace, jrr


Member: jrr
Location: harmony by the Lake
Date: 16 Mar 1998
Time: 17:51:50

Comments

Well--helloooo room! gotta love this stuff...first off,welcome to the newcomers / re-treads..just stay in; to hell with being around,that is like looking at a cathouse for 6yrs and wondering if you do it on your own with props, it will resemble what is inside the cathouse...actually I don't know how it was said, but that was close...

Any way, to all those recuperating : I was hurt on 8/15/95 and still recovering from injuries,lately we're talking surgery and loss of job after only getting back on my feet 6 mos. ago...I try to stay positive and in today, but the crazies creep, and they told me to work with others, on the phone if neccesary ,better still take the time to look at me ,soo...here we go again; get the paper and pen,maw, time to 'rite this stuff down..

geoff---SoberChef1@aol.com----anytime. get with someone sober ,who has a sponsor, it will work...I promise .

And mary w. in the ----fields , what a smile you gave me today.LOL you are quite a gal..how am I supposed to know about corn or wheat, we have both up here ...besides I live on a frozen tundra , Lake Erie , part of the Arctic Cap !! I get to see green (brown?) 2 mos.a yr.

you are welcome to write also ..address above. My friend tells me ," she is just like me , your done !" whatever..women still baffle me... Anyway BIG SPECIAL HUG..mary w. and stay like my friend...she's one of the best I've ever met...sober too,..quite a few...just like you ! hell...I don't need to resentful to pray for a nice car...I'll take one that starts consistently! stay sober all ....peace, jrr


Member: Suzanne H.
Location: Ontario Canada
Date: 16 Mar 1998
Time: 18:32:01

Comments

jrr

Guess you wanted to be heard! LOL

Every bit was worth it. Thanks


Member: syhawk
Location: ALB NM
Date: 16 Mar 1998
Time: 22:53:21

Comments

Hi all first time here this is great


Member: jrr
Location: harmony by the lake
Date: 17 Mar 1998
Time: 00:22:27

Comments

actually my computer went down...I submitted once , lost contact, then once again....sorry about that....to err is human...later...much.


Member: Lee P.
Location: Texas
Date: 17 Mar 1998
Time: 06:24:21

Comments

I don't come to this site very often,but when I do I always get something to take with me for the rest of the day.I'm a counselor and dealing with a bunch of mostly court ordered drunks and addicts who don't want to be there is a real challenge.Meetings are vital for me,but these also help.Try this site: www.hazelden.org Has reading for the day,as well as chat rooms.


Member: Martina G
Location:
Date: 17 Mar 1998
Time: 07:01:04

Comments

TO Danielle: We all relate to you. You are not the only one who "doesn't deserve"..... none of us "deserve". We have been given a gift of sobriety. This gift is freely offered to you also, if you'll open it. Because you talk of friends and school, you sound young. One thing you have that not everyone has is your whole life ahead of you. I didn't want to become sober until my children were 8 and 10 years old. by then my son was already very affected by my alcoholism and he is now an alcoholic himself (I taught him well). My daughter, on the other hand, is hyer-responsible but is extremely closed and stoic. This is also a result of my alcoholism. It literally breaks my heart to see my son. I hope that you can read everyone's "horror" stories and believe that you can avoid this hell and avoid ruining your life and the life of others -- today - if you are willing to surrender yourself and want it badly enough, go to an AA meeting and tomorrow and the next day and commit yourself to 90 meetings in 90 days NO MATTER WHAT. But even that won't help if you like where you are at better than the thought of a normal life. Many people are praying for you. God loves you and so do we. Keep coming back.


Member: Glen H
Location: Denton, TX
Date: 17 Mar 1998
Time: 07:57:32

Comments

Martina, have you tried Alanon? It really is a separate program dealing with different issues. Nobody caused our alcoholism, and we cannot cause anybody else to be one.


Member: Jim M.
Location: NW Ohio
Date: 17 Mar 1998
Time: 08:29:38

Comments

Top O' the morning to all my sober Irish friends! Being both, I am a true miracle ...by the grace of God and this amazing fellowship...God bless.


Member: Eileen D.
Location: Pa.
Date: 17 Mar 1998
Time: 09:16:24

Comments

To Jim M. And the rest of the day to yourself! (End of and old Irish greeting) What a glorius ST. Patricks's Day for me. Thanks to my God, you good people at AA, I have 60 days sobriety. Wishing you all a sober 17th. Thanks, and God bless Eileen


Member: wilma lee
Location: muncie in
Date: 17 Mar 1998
Time: 09:58:42

Comments

good morning i have had the flu so haven't been here for a couple of days it's good to see that everyone is still talking about good things this site is really helping me thanks for being here.


Member: Techs
Location:
Date: 17 Mar 1998
Time: 10:56:55

Comments

Happy St. Pat's from a couple of Irishmen. Stay out of the pubs and keep it green.


Member: Martina G
Location:
Date: 17 Mar 1998
Time: 12:17:57

Comments

Glenn ; good point. Yes I do go to alanon sometimes. It is hard to keep the issues separate and I do struggle with guilt at times. If you have kids then you can understand that there probably isn't much else in life that causes so much pain as seeing your kids suffer. they are responsible for themselves, but it still hurts. My point in sharing this, Danielle, is only that anyone young who is an alcoholic still has the opportunity to avoid some of the horrors of alcoholism. You wouldn't really know what they might be unless you can listen to others' hindsights. And, though we cannot "cause" someone elses alcoholism, I feel that it is important for me anyway to not delude myself into thinking that my alcoholism did not impact my children's lives. As an alcoholic, I need to keep all the consequences fresh in my mind so I don't forget the pain. But thanks, Glenn. Maybe I'll go to an alanon meeting this week.


Member: Jane E
Location: Illinois
Date: 17 Mar 1998
Time: 12:41:23

Comments

Hi I'm Jane and a very grateful recovering alcoholic. Martina G, go to alanon and just listen. I went for a 2 years after my first year to help me with my co-dependency and relationships with other alcoholics(I was very very contolling). It not only helped me with dealing with my co-dependency but also with acceptance and working my AA program. I still drop in every once in awhile for a refresher. Good luck and God Bless.

A very grateful AA member on this St. Patrick's Day, Jane


Member: Kelley C
Location: Chicago
Date: 17 Mar 1998
Time: 15:39:57

Comments

Hi. This is Kelley C, a recovering alcoholic/addict. Happy St. Patrick's Day to everyone. I have a special request. I am scheduled for surgery tomorrow morning at 10:30 CST. This is my fourth surgery in less than three months so you'd think I'd be used to it by now. This is also a minor surgery as opposed to the last three (major). Still, surgery and sedation unnerve me a little and I could use a few prayers and good wishes. Thanks to all of you for your support and the strength of your combined journies. I appreciate all the sobriety and caring I see posted daily. Thanks and God Bless. Kelley P. S. JL in MA: I e-mailed you but I don't know if I had the address right. Let me know...o'kay? Thanks and I hope you're doing well.


Member: Martina G
Location:
Date: 17 Mar 1998
Time: 17:10:28

Comments

Hi Kelly C - you will definitely be in my prayers. God Bless you and let us know how you are doing.


Member: Jimmy S.
Location: East Ky.
Date: 17 Mar 1998
Time: 19:03:54

Comments

Hi everyone, haven't spoken on here for a while. I need some encouragement. Lost my girlfriend and what I thought was to be my future wife due to my drinking and dishonesty due to my problem. I at times feel what is the point for me striving to remain sober? I loved her much and miss her deeply. No alcohol in three weeks but I'm having a tough time. Will she come back if I'm responsible? It certainly hurts a lot.


Member: JOSHUA R.
Location: SONOMA COUNTY
Date: 17 Mar 1998
Time: 19:43:10

Comments

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

I just got six months this last week. It's the longest time I've ever had.

I'm getting together with my sponsor tomorrow to work on my third step. I think, right now it really sums up my daily battle. That whole idea of "letting go and letting God".

I know, that when I'm trying to run the show, it usually turns to shit. My way doesn't work. I know this....but somewhere I don't fully believe it, so I don't always apply it.

Its hard. I'm having a bad day today. I don't know.

That's it.


Member: Gary B
Location: Milwaukee, WI
Date: 17 Mar 1998
Time: 21:25:56

Comments

One of the things that seems to bother a lot of people about AA is the "God" thing. Used to bother me until I had an experience very like this joke...<G>

An athiest was spending a quiet day fishing when suddenly his boat was attacked by the Loch Ness Monster. In one easy flip, the beast tossed him and his boat high into the air. Then it opened its mouth and prepared to swallow both. As the man sailed head over heels, he cried out, "Oh my God! Help me!" At once, the ferocious attack scene froze in place, and as the atheist hung in midair, a booming voice came down from the clouds, "I THOUGHT YOU DIDN'T BELIEVE IN ME?" "Come on God, give me a break!" the man pleaded. "Two minutes ago I didn't believe in the Loch Ness Monster, either!"

Sometimes you just have to ask.......


Member: mark d
Location: las vegas, nv
Date: 17 Mar 1998
Time: 21:41:23

Comments

mark here, alcoholic.......JIMMY S......what I get from working and living the program of AA is a daily reprieve from the compulsion to drink alcohol.....I never got anything "back".....yesterday is gone....history....over.....this is not to say that there may be a chance to re-build the trust and love I traded away for one more drink.....in many cases this HAS happened....in others, I doubht if it ever will....I trade away a loving wife and two fine children.....the love remains, but the trust?.....hmmmm.....there is some today between the ex and I....but not like it was, and besides we have both changed.....our lives have gone thier seperate paths....we care for each other deeply, and forgiveness has been a blessing for both of us......shal we say....forgiven, not forgotten....the kids and I are starting to trust again also.....we share our joys and sorrows, we share our love....but again, a trust was broken....to regain that trust in my opinion will just never happen... but the chance to build a new trust, and new love....that is a gift of sobriety.....they accept me as I am today, and who I am today is thier Dad, and I am an alcoholic.....and at any given moment it can all go away.....it has been over five years now that I have been blessed with knowing life on life's terms....and I am here to tell ya that this stuff works....and it works real good! God help me if I ever forget Step One.....hang in Jimmy, three weeks without a drink is almost 22 days.....and if yer anything like me, it is a miracle.....God Bless and stay close to the program, and it will stay close to you....

powerless mark....... qyitkaos@anv.net 1-4-93 by the Grace of God and the program of AA anybody need to yak? write me private anytime....I'm just another drunk who was given this gift called recovery....


Member: JOHN N
Location: CORK IRELAND
Date: 17 Mar 1998
Time: 22:41:32

Comments

hi john n here just been at a meeting at st patricks hill group on st patricks day.just want to wish all members soberity and peace. remember your higher power loves you and will ALWAYS HELP YOU.just ask .i did and now i have sobrity and contentment beyond my wildest wildest dreams. GOD bless you all especially ye who are still suffering.


Member: mary w.
Location: kiss in Ks
Date: 17 Mar 1998
Time: 22:55:40

Comments

happy st pat's to y'all. had my corned beef and cabbage. been belegueered by leperachans . although been wondering other than a religious holiday ( how come an athiest celebrates this day?) what was it other than a great rationalization to get rip roaring drunk? bring me the spirit back, not the spirits.ha ha.

hugs,

mary w.

ps, kelley - your in my prayers and a special angel will watch over you.

jimmy in ky. - hang in there, don't quit 5 minutes before the miracle. when one door shuts, another opens. sometimes there is a door knob on the one thats shut too.


Member: Ann A
Location: Brooklyn
Date: 17 Mar 1998
Time: 23:43:50

Comments

Hi All!! Another sober day here in the Apple, St Patty's or no. Mark I especially love readindg what you share- it always seems to hit home. I shared your list of ways not to grow with several friends. You'd know them right away by the way they're rolling in the floor. Thanks to all for helping me with another sober day. I have learned the hard way that I can't do it alone Hugs, Ann


Member: Rob W
Location: Central Calif.
Date: 18 Mar 1998
Time: 00:08:34

Comments

Hello to all !! I am gratefull to have found this site and by the grace of God to be sober another day. To Kelly C-- My prayers are with you for a successful surgery and a speedy recovery. To Josh R--Hang in there my friend and just keep coming back. It does get better--One day at a time even if some days are a little painfull, that is a sign of progress and Life. Blessings to all!!


Member: Danielle
Location: Canada
Date: 18 Mar 1998
Time: 01:13:45

Comments

Martina, I appreciate you're help. Since you asked, I'm 20; I've been drinking since I was 17. Doesn't matter why, it'd be an excuse anyway. What matters is that I drink now, and, for as much as I want to stop, I want to keep going. I keep coming back here and it pisses me off because you're all there already...you're not drinking. For whatever amount of time. And its not you who I'm pissed at, its me. Because I can get through the day, if I cry and sweat it out under my blankets, but that's the day. The night brings such monsters; although by now I think I even use those as an excuse. I'm such a coward.


Member: sharon
Location:
Date: 18 Mar 1998
Time: 01:30:26

Comments

Mark, Thanks for the links!


Member: jrr
Location: harmony on the Lake
Date: 18 Mar 1998
Time: 01:53:11

Comments

Happy St Patty Day to all...hope it was a sober one as it was for me...amazing some people still have all the answers boy , am I impressed with all the judging and wisdom from some celebrity's hometown out there with all that B.S. and oil...wonder how we stay sober back here ?...impressive...or was that just plain arrogance...? Newcomers and those giving Personal experience, strength and hope....God bless...some are sicker than others..peace jrr special hug to mary in kansas...she meant just like herself...now I'm in trouble...!


Member: Martina G
Location:
Date: 18 Mar 1998
Time: 14:32:11

Comments

Hang in there Danielle! We care and are here for you if you want the help.

I wish you peace tonight and am saying special prayers for you.


Member: Jimmy S.
Location: East Ky.
Date: 18 Mar 1998
Time: 17:40:42

Comments

Mark, thanks man, I know that you are correct. It's tough to put the what if's behind me. I tend to beat myself up. I know that if I stay sober things will be positive. Thanks for your reply.


Member: Ali
Location: California
Date: 18 Mar 1998
Time: 22:07:23

Comments

Hi, Ali alcoholic, my hard drive looks like it crashed so I haven't been able to visit for the past three days. I miss everybody. Catch up soon


Member: mark d
Location: las vegas, nv
Date: 18 Mar 1998
Time: 23:04:21

Comments

Way cool JIMMY......but "tend" to be yerself up? Heck, if yer anything like me, nothing but a knock-out will ever do! (grin) even a TKO doesn't satisfy me.....sure hope yer doing a lot of mtgs and checkinmg to find a sponsor....It sure is nice to see my name mentioned so many times....and it is nice to do the pass it thang....but let me tell ya, I ain't no guru...I ain't no spiritual giant either....I'm just another drunk....somebody said something not drinking....heck, I don't drink anymore....course I don't drink any less either...just haven't had one so far today....let's see what I got on file....brb....yea, here's a gooden enjoy

A Mexican newspaper reports that bored Royal Air Force pilots stationed on the Falkland Islands have devised what they consider a marvelous new game. Noting that the local penguins are fascinated by airplanes, the pilots search out a beach where the birds are gathered and fly slowly along it at the water's edge. Perhaps ten thousand penguins turn their heads in unison watching the planes go by, and when the pilots turn around and fly back, the birds turn their heads in the opposite direction, like spectators at a slow-motion tennis match. Then, the paper reports, "The pilots fly out to sea and directly to the penguin colony and overfly it. Heads go up, up, up, and ten thousand penguins fall over gently onto their backs. -- Audobon Society Magazine


Member: mary w.
Location: tryin to kiss in KS
Date: 18 Mar 1998
Time: 23:09:57

Comments

hello everyone, i'm hanging in there. KELLEY -i hope everything came out okay. you arestill in my prayers. j.r.r. READ YOUR EMAIL !!!!!! big hug tb.

hugs,

mary w.


Member: Mel W.
Location: north FL.
Date: 19 Mar 1998
Time: 01:05:45

Comments

Hello everyone Mel here alcoholic, I missed my AA meeting today, work got in the way. Rather I allowed work to get in the way, can't blame something I'm in control of for my absence at a meeting. There are plenty of things that I am powerless over but rarely is getting to a meeting one of them. It has been a stressful day but I didn't have to drink over it although I did think about it briefly. Being able to talk about it here helps though, not the same as ftf but close enough. Martina did you get the links I sent? Iet me know if not I will e-mail again. love to all mel.


Member: jrr
Location: harmony by the Lake
Date: 19 Mar 1998
Time: 01:29:31

Comments

I sometimes delete with out reading...plus I had trouble w/ box till 12 mid....send it again...please...everybody else ...stay grateful and stay sober..one day at a time peace jrr


Member: jimmyp
Location: hatteras,nc
Date: 19 Mar 1998
Time: 06:42:35

Comments

hi everybody, this site is wayyy! cool!! am absolutely thrilled this morning i found this site, has left me speechless (unusual) i didn't think of my computer as another tool for staying sober !! may hp be with you all today! gratefuuly yours jimmyp


Member: Martina G
Location: CT
Date: 19 Mar 1998
Time: 07:13:41

Comments

Hi Mel --- no I didn't get links.

Thanks.

Have a great day today.


Member: Glen H
Location: Denton, TX
Date: 19 Mar 1998
Time: 08:03:49

Comments

Heard in a meeting, I think to illustrate building oneself up by tearing down others (I never get the point):

Two shopkeepers constantly watched each other, spending more time worrying over who had the most customers than they did serving their own. The jealousy got so bad that God dispatched an angel to teach the two how to share. The angel told the first shopkeeper "I'll grant you one wish, and it can be anything you want. But, whatever it is, the other shopkeeper gets twice as much. I'll grant you as much money as you like, but he will get twice that amount. I'll give you a long life but he will live twice as long. So -- what would you like?". To which the shopkeeper replied, "Okay, Angel, so strike me blind in one eye."


Member: jrr
Location: harmony on the Lake
Date: 19 Mar 1998
Time: 12:27:44

Comments

wow...guess something rang true...or more of same..? stay sober and grateful all..peace jrr


Member: Glen H
Location: Denton, TX
Date: 19 Mar 1998
Time: 13:13:25

Comments

Oliver from Germany -- if you make it over from the meeting page, thanks for the nice note. I wondered if you would get my snail mail (actually, I had to try to remember how to really "write" a letter.


Member: Amy G.-C.
Location: Switzerland
Date: 19 Mar 1998
Time: 15:22:05

Comments

Hello, Amy here, an American living in Switzerland. Glenn from the meetings page if you felt there was someone out there needing a prayer and I know what you mean about those long lists, just remember me, I still need all the prayers I can get. I suffered in silence when I moved here not speaking a word of swiss german to understand at the meetings here. I am glad to have found my meetings, they are what brought me to this new life and recovery. Also Oliver from Germany, is English your mother tongue? Glad to have recovering friends on both sides of the globe. Thanks for letting me share, Amy G.


Member: m.w.
Location: ks
Date: 20 Mar 1998
Time: 01:44:02

Comments

hugs,

mary w.


Member: Kelley C.
Location: Chicago
Date: 20 Mar 1998
Time: 08:29:13

Comments

Hi. This is Kelley C, recovering alcoholic/addict. Thanks to everyone for your prayers and warm wishes. The surgery went well, the external fixator is off my leg, but I am now in a cast and will continue to be laid up. I am so grateful for the help of recovering people and the strength of their prayers. I am also really grateful for this site...I need to not be so isolated and this helps when ftf meetings are not possible. Again, thanks and God/dess bless.

Love, Kelley


Member: Ann A
Location: Brooklyn
Date: 20 Mar 1998
Time: 08:37:39

Comments

Ann A here ---sober today by the grace of God Hugs


Member: Suzanne H.
Location: Ontario Canada
Date: 20 Mar 1998
Time: 08:59:22

Comments

Good Morning! My name is Suzanne and I'm an alcoholic.

Kelley C. - I'm glad to hear that your surgery went well. I will include you in my prayers for a speedy recovery.

I haven't been here too much this week because of "spring break". The kids have been hogging the computer. Oh well, I have enjoyed the time with them home this week.

Have a good day everyone!


Member: Jack C.
Location: Flagstaff, AZ
Date: 20 Mar 1998
Time: 10:40:41

Comments

Jack C. here, alcoholic. Mark D, thanks for the stories and funny stuff. After nearly three years sober, by the Grace of God, I find I enjoy humor a lot more. Can even laugh at myself!! (Saves others the trouble) Hope all of you have a happy & prosperous 24! Peace.


Member: Martina G
Location: CT
Date: 20 Mar 1998
Time: 11:16:51

Comments

Kelly -- Happy to hear you are okay. Stay close.

Have a good day.


Member: DAVID  B
Location: IDAHO FALLS
Date: 20 Mar 1998
Time: 12:25:20

Comments

I'm way too self obsessed to get beyond me today. It's days like these that it pays to remember the book actually says we get to the point where we stop fighting anything or anybody. It goes on to say this has happened automatically, without any thought or effort on our part. It just comes. This brings to mind the fact that this is a one day at a time program. I am certainly happy to remember that one day at a time thing. I know for a personal fact that it takes longer than my current sixteen years of soberiety for the automatic sessation(sp) of fighting to remain automatic for longer periods of time. If only THEY would do things MY WAY it might even be a one week at a time program. However, considering I would still have MY head attached to MY neck I'm quite afraid that if THEY all relented and started doing things MY WAY, I might have a sudden increase in the level of my expectations. THEY would have to surrender to ME again and THEY might not like that. Anyway, as I read the book, I'M not supposed to be the surrenderee, I'M supposed to be the surrenderer. Not to them though, to GOD. So just who the hell do THEY think THEY are? The next fourteen lines are dedicated to extremely voilatile profanity. I would like to say that I feel better but the only thing I can say is thank you for being there.


Member: DAVID  B
Location: IDAHO FALLS
Date: 20 Mar 1998
Time: 12:28:13

Comments

I'm way too self obsessed to get beyond me today. It's days like these that it pays to remember the book actually says we get to the point where we stop fighting anything or anybody. It goes on to say this has happened automatically, without any thought or effort on our part. It just comes. This brings to mind the fact that this is a one day at a time program. I am certainly happy to remember that one day at a time thing. I know for a personal fact that it takes longer than my current sixteen years of soberiety for the automatic sessation(sp) of fighting to remain automatic for longer periods of time. If only THEY would do things MY WAY it might even be a one week at a time program. However, considering I would still have MY head attached to MY neck I'm quite afraid that if THEY all relented and started doing things MY WAY, I might have a sudden increase in the level of my expectations. THEY would have to surrender to ME again and THEY might not like that. Anyway, as I read the book, I'M not supposed to be the surrenderee, I'M supposed to be the surrenderer. Not to them though, to GOD. So just who the hell do THEY think THEY are? The next fourteen lines are dedicated to extremely voilatile profanity. I would like to say that I feel better but the only thing I can say is thank you for being there.


Member: Patti A.
Location: Santa Rosa, CA
Date: 20 Mar 1998
Time: 12:34:34

Comments

Hi. Just a quick check-in. Continuing to climb out of my depression. I stopped in at a meeting yesterday and talked to a woman who has a bad back injury, too. She has a special portable seat for her car and she brings it in for the chairs at meetings. Also, ices on her way to the meeting so her back is numb for a while. She can get all the way through a meeting now. I am going to try it. I have never been so isolated. It is getting better, though. I have been reaching out a little. Thanks to all of you for "listening" and your prayers. The sun helps, too. I live in a hard-hit El Nino area. This little stretch of sunlight is so wonderful!

To Kellie: I will hold your healing in my prayers. People from here have been praying for me and I know it is really helping.

A peaceful day to you all. Patti


Member: Susan W.
Location: Cape Coral, FL
Date: 20 Mar 1998
Time: 14:58:17

Comments

Thanks for a really cool site to come to. I can site in my living room and still feel connected to AA.

My sobriety is precious and I treat it with prayer. For those interested, I post Daily Meditations for a cool start to my day and apparently my readers enjoy it too.

Come visit: http://members.tripod.com/~Whitley/meditate.htm for fresh fuel daily for your mind, soul & spirit.

Expect Miracles!


Member: WILMA LEE
Location: INDIANA
Date: 20 Mar 1998
Time: 23:50:44

Comments

HI, I HAVE BEEN READING THESE COMMENTS FOR ABOUT A WEEK NOW. TO MY SURPRISE IT REFRESHES MY MIND AND I FEEL IT IS HELPING ME WITH MY SOBRIETY. MY GRANDDAUGHTER TRIED TO KILL HERSELF THIS WEEK AND I FELT VERY CONFUSED. I THOUGHT WHEN WE TRY TO HELP OURSELVES, IT WILL SOMEHOW BREAK THE CYCLE. FOR A SPLITTING SECOND I THOUGHT ALL MY WORK HAD BEEN IN VAIN. THEN THANK GOD I REALIZED MY LIFE HAD CHANGED AND HOW MIGHT I HAVE HANDLED SUCH NEWS IF I WERE STILL USING. AND THEN I REMEMBER, A JOURNEY OF A THOUSAND MILES, BEGINS WITH JUST ON STEP, THANKS FOR LISTENING.


Member: mary w.
Location: KISS in Ks
Date: 20 Mar 1998
Time: 23:55:23

Comments

big day sat. been doing the footwotk for months and left the results to god -well sat. is the day of results. hope and fear are battling within me, i think i'll side with hope today. no expectations, well not many, on the outcome.

kelley - hurray! remember progress is usaully slow and tedious. i've also heard that the H.P.doesn't make it easy for his/her favored, just think H.P. must really LIKE you!!

hugs,

mary w.


Member: jrr
Location: harmony on the Lake
Date: 21 Mar 1998
Time: 00:30:10

Comments

mary w ...whatever the result you do not walk alone ...prayers it goes well on Sat.

As was so simply put, do the footwork ; the result is in good Hands...I need a reminder that although it may not be as I wish , it usually is what I needed at the time.

all else,stay grateful and sober today...


Member: Martina G
Location: CT
Date: 21 Mar 1998
Time: 06:51:54

Comments

Hi everyone. I woke up in a bad mood and feeling sorry for myself because my husband and I are having trouble communicating. Expectations getting in the way. I am also in need of a vacation, but can't take it yet.... though my boss is understanding and will give it to me just as soon as he can.(time to look at H.A.L.T.) Then I read your comments Wilma Lee and remembered how quickly life can change and how life is a gift. Self Pity is a killer. Thanks for your courage to share Wilma Lee. Come back and share as much as you need to and we all will be listening and praying for you and your granddaughter.


Member: Kerry B.
Location: Idaho
Date: 21 Mar 1998
Time: 18:22:52

Comments

Today is number 6,570 in sobriety. That translates to 18 years today. What a journey this has been, one that I would not have been able to experience if I had not asked for help and followed the directions. Not always easy, but always for the better. I have not celebrated an AA birthday in a group for about 5 years. Every year a dear friend of ours sends me a medallion from our home area. I do not expect it, it just comes, and I am going to write him a love letter this year instead of calling so that he will know just how much it means to me. I have always been terrible with other peoples birthdays, maybe someday I will get better at it. This friend knows that I value our friendship to spite my character defects, that is the kind of friend I aspire to be. This program taught me that. I am ever so grateful for my life. Wilma Lee, I will add your granddaughter to my prayers, I hope she never succeeds in the self destruction. I love you all.


Member: Sarina B
Location:
Date: 21 Mar 1998
Time: 18:31:14

Comments

Hello everybody, this is my first time in this site or on the Internet. I knew that the first thing I would do is look up the AA sites. This is so nice that even though I am snowed in and cannot get to a meeting, I still have access to the program. God has surely blessed us with the gift of technology. I never thought I would be sober long enough to reach out to others but here I am almost two years clean and fairly sane and happy.

To John L in Chicago: Hang in there and go to meetings. You said you wish you were in a room with others GO TO MEETINGS!!!!!!!!!! You are starting down a road that only gets better. Good luck and god bless.

Patti A. I went to Santa Rosa 2 years ago . It was the month before I got sober. Being there was one of the things that got me sober. You have great recovery in Calif. and are very lucky. I hope your back is getting better and that you will keep your chin up.

Thanks for making this site available. I was reading in the April issue ( tis Aprils) about a woman who got sober using the internet. Thats the Grapevine by the way. She wrote about sisters in cyberspace and I am proud to finally be joining the family of AA on the web. Thanks brothers and sisters.

Sarina B.


Member: Sarina B
Location: burlington
Date: 21 Mar 1998
Time: 18:32:42

Comments

Hello everybody, this is my first time in this site or on the Internet. I knew that the first thing I would do is look up the AA sites. This is so nice that even though I am snowed in and cannot get to a meeting, I still have access to the program. God has surely blessed us with the gift of technology. I never thought I would be sober long enough to reach out to others but here I am almost two years clean and fairly sane and happy.

To John L in Chicago: Hang in there and go to meetings. You said you wish you were in a room with others GO TO MEETINGS!!!!!!!!!! You are starting down a road that only gets better. Good luck and god bless.

Patti A. I went to Santa Rosa 2 years ago . It was the month before I got sober. Being there was one of the things that got me sober. You have great recovery in Calif. and are very lucky. I hope your back is getting better and that you will keep your chin up.

Thanks for making this site available. I was reading in the April issue ( tis Aprils) about a woman who got sober using the internet. Thats the Grapevine by the way. She wrote about sisters in cyberspace and I am proud to finally be joining the family of AA on the web. Thanks brothers and sisters.

Sarina B.


Member: Chris B
Location: Camino Ca
Date: 21 Mar 1998
Time: 21:23:20

Comments

Hello everyone,Chris B alcoholic here. Well today is thirty days. Life is already getting better. Tomorrow I'll get my first chip. I'm having some problems with the "religious" aspects of the program. I know the big book says it's a spiritual not "religious" program. If that's true why do 95% of meetings end in a Christian prayer? I don't believe it's my higher powers job to keep me sober. I think I've been given the tools necessary to stay sober. (I don't mean by myself I need a lot of help to stay sober and that's why I go to meetings.) AA is my higher power at this point. I'm willing to do whatever it takes to stay sober but I can't make myself believe something that I know in my heart isn't true. I wish I could believe in God it would make life much simpler. (Who wouldn't want eternal life?) Well I've probably offended enough people for now. Comments or advice is always appreciated.


Member: Suzanne H.
Location: Ontario Canada
Date: 21 Mar 1998
Time: 22:05:02

Comments

Hi everyone! Suzanne, alcoholic.

Just checking in. The kids have been hogging the computer today.

Sarina B. - I am from Burlington Ontario. You?

Take care all.

Suzanne H.


Member: WILMA LEE
Location: INDIANA
Date: 21 Mar 1998
Time: 23:34:02

Comments

TO THOSE OF YOU THAT ADDED ME AND MY GRANDDAUGHTER TO YOUR PRAYERS, THANK YOU. I DROVE UP AND SPENT THE DAY WITH HER AND ALTHOUGH I DIDN'T HEAR WHAT I WANTED TO HEAR I WAS ABLE TO INSURE HER THAT I LOVED HER AND WHAT A VOID THERE WOULD BE IN MY LIFE IF SHE WEREN'T IN IT. BOY I WOULDN'T WANT TO BE A TEENAGER TODAY. THANK YOU FOR YOUR PRAYERS AND THANK GOD FOR THIS SPACE I HAVE FOUND ON THE COMPUTER.


Member: Amy G.C.
Location: Switzerland
Date: 22 Mar 1998
Time: 08:53:29

Comments

Hi everyone, Amy, recovering alcoholic from Switzerland...Once again happy to have an AA connection. I wanted to reply to Chris B. about how it is not God`s responsibility to get or to keep him sober and that he does not want to participate in things like the serenity prayer...well from my own personal experience, I was raised a preachers daughter in the South (US) and grew to resent all organized religion. It was only when I hit rock bottom that I had no where else to look but up and my prayer for sobriety has been answered, without the help of AA meetings because here I did not speak the language for 2 years...but my initial recovery began with AA so I knew the principles and always read a support book, sometimes "Living Sober", but all I want to say (without any malice or resentment) that you have a right to your own beliefs, and AA is a higher power, it taught me to take a look at how I hav been living my life and it started me on the track to peace and fulfillment in life. I understand your non belief because I have BEEN THERE, but the truth from my heart overcame that when the time was right. For everything there is a season, a time and a purpose. Just keep being honest with yourself and with us, and you`ll get honest answers that you can think over. My God does not and has not answered prayers according to my will but to his. He wants you to be happy and (like a father) delights in your happiness, it is therefore that (supposing he exists) he would like to see you sober but his gift of free will comes with a few draw backs, we have to make our own decisions. Hope I havn`t rambled on and would love to hear further comments from you. Also Chris B...you are 3 weeks sober and that is a huge success. Your fiance has left because of, as you said, your previous irresponsibility because of drinking. I know love can hurt, I prayed for 2 years for my ex to love me and when it never happened I felt I had been left on the lurch, that I had stayed sober, didn`t I deserve a prize of love? Not always. Sometimes it is better to change playgrounds and playmates and keep your sobriety. When you can love yourself then love will find you... Keep the faith in the program and in yourself. Love to you all from the Alps, Amy


Member: Chuck S.
Location: Cntrl WV.
Date: 22 Mar 1998
Time: 11:19:02

Comments

"Good Morning Everyone'!! Chuck S. in recovery here. Hope you all are well and hanging on to the hope this program brings. For myself,it's what keeps me going.I haven't been to a meeting this week and it shows,inside and out.I will definitly make a meeting TODAY. Although I haven't wanted a drink/drug it's just not good for me not to get to meetings.

Amy G.C.-I too have had a hard time with organized religion.However AA has taught me there is a difference between religion and spirituality.When I finally got a clear picture I was able to see and absorb the steps and principles with a [more] positive outlook and attitude.FOR ME,repeat"FOR ME",my religion or the lack of it,has little to do with my spirituality.For myself,my religios preference is MY expression of MY spirituality.I used to be told,and belived,that I had no morals or values,living the life I did.This program has shown me different and has helped me get back to living those morals and values.From all this comes HOPE and a belief that no matter what I,Chuck S.,don't have to go back to the hell I was living. I hope this hasn't offended anyone, this is merely my belief and expression.It helps me day to day not to drink/drug or hurt the people I love.Back to you Amy-sorry for drifting...Did you finally learn the language?It must have been tough just being in a different country let-alone trying to find english speaking meetings. I'm glad to see that you've hung in there and are here with us,"welcome"!

Well-"THE CREW" (my sons) just got up so,my time is up for now and will drop in abit later.. I'm outa here!!

"TFTS"!!cs

P>S> anyone out there from LOUISIANA??