Member: joe don A
Location: nova scotia canada joe_don55@hotmail.com
Date: 2/9/2003
Time: 9:29:48 AM

Comments

joe don A here alkie i'd like to here some good things the program has brought you in your life from getting in the program some of the rewordes you've received things like that thank you joe


Member: Al S.
Location: Morro Bay, Ca.
Date: 2/9/2003
Time: 11:12:16 AM

Comments

Hi Joe Don A, Ya know, I'm sitting here at my computer looking out at Morro Bay in California, and know everything that I did last night. Today I can walk upright, and be confident that I can look everyone straight in the eye. I don't have to worry about who I see because of anything that I might have said or done last night. Even my "problems" are a miracle, mainly because I know that there is a solution to every problem today, IF, I rely on the tools that A.A. has given me. Today I no longer live in the fantasy that somehow I should be the only person that finds a way to to be perfectly correct at all times. I'm free to make mistakes, and to learn from them. Today I'm no longer afraid of my feelings, because I see them as guidance systems, NOT punishments. I've let go of the old idea that "the wisdom to know thw difference" I've been praying for for 18 years, always feels good. And finally, I'm in complete joy that I've come to see that throughout the "Big Book," the "Big Tool" used for healing, is the expression of unconditional love to others. In "Bills Story," he states that the only thing that kept him sober for a year and a half after he quit drinking, was his work with other alcoholics. In Step 10 it says, "Continue to watch for selfishness, dishonesty, resentment, and fear. When" (Not if) "these crop up, we ask God at once to remove them. We discuss them with someone immediately and make ammends quickly if we have harmed anyone. Then "(and here comes the love) "we resolutely turn our thoughts to someone we can help. Love and tolerance is our code." Step 12 is of course the same commitment to the expression of love. Thanks for the opportunity to strat my day reconnecting with Love. Al S.


Member: Tim H.
Location: Japan
Date: 2/9/2003
Time: 12:26:40 PM

Comments

Hello, Joe Don Half a day from now I will be returning to my home country for a vacation for the first time in four and a half years. That last vacation was a nightmare, because I was still drinking. Now I'm going back SOBER and I know for certain that I wouldn't be going back at all if I hadn't quit drinking. Keep working the program UNTIL the miracle happens, because it WILL happen. God bless you all.


Member: Mike A.
Location: El Cajon, Ca.
Date: 2/9/2003
Time: 1:39:58 PM

Comments

My name is Mike and i'm a alcoholic, I introduce myself like that because thats my name.Theres not enough room to go into depth of the gifs and rewards of the program, but the obvious would first be a sober life that I'm comfortable with, I'm not fighting it. Honesty, Fath, courage, hope, unconditional love to name a few.Patience is a big one for me, I am able to put one foot in front of the other until I see the results of my actions. Not just instant gratification. When I do something good for me or for you it makes me feel good. Thats what I've been doing in AA for many years. Lifes in session. Welcome if your new to AA, give yourself a chance, sobriety doesn't happen over night, you have to be persistant and patient. Trust a power grater than you. Stay safe sane and sober . Love to all Mike A.


Member: AZbill
Location: Sierra Vista, Arizona
Date: 2/9/2003
Time: 3:15:44 PM

Comments

HI Joe, Bill here. Alcoholic from Arizona. The very first thought that came to my mind when I read your post on rewards was "Freedom". Today I have the freedom to drink or not to drink. Awesome rewards. The God of my understanding. Peace and serenity not all but most of the time. The promises have all come true. My sanity was returned. I can react sanely and rationally today. The Family I trashed so I could drink have taken me back into their lives. Every year I visit my former wife, my hubby in law and my six girls. I am welcome in all of their homes. Even some my former wife's family enjoy my company. I have true friends today bott in and out of the program. I feel loved today, I am trusted today, in my family, in AA and in the community. I feel needed in some circles today and am able to contribute to the community and to AA. Lots of minor crap as well. I graduated from college. Published in Medical journals. Respected in my chosen field. And finally, I have the gratitude for every drink I took. I believe that I had to step on every stepping stone along the way to get where I am today. I also believe that if I should forget, even for one fleeting moment, from where I came; I could find myself back at Waldo's Bar finding and drinking that half of a gin and tonic I left sitting there in 1981. It is still there waiting for me. Bill email az-bill@mindspring.com


Member: Mike C.
Location: Lower Alabama (LA)
Date: 2/9/2003
Time: 4:47:34 PM

Comments

Hi All, Alcoholic from Alabama. The rewards for me is to have a life free from the insidious craving to take a drink. Draggin around the ball and chain kept me having to take that drink. That one freedom, admitting I am powerless over alcohol, is the thing that changed my life. But the rewards of taking the remaining 11 steps and having the peace of mind that goes with sobriety is the icing on the cake.


Member: Donna C
Location: Pahala, HI
Date: 2/9/2003
Time: 5:00:50 PM

Comments

Hello, Everyone, My name is Donna and I'm an alcoholic. I live in the San Francisco Bay Area and usually attend meetings in Concord, CA, but I'm on the Big Island for a month and haven't found any meetings nearby yet. This forum is perfect for me. I love the topic, which brought to mind the promises and how they have come true for me. I have been sober for a few years now, but I can remember what it was like to have everything revolve around getting a drink. I retired from my day job about a year ago and am thoroughly enjoying myself. I finished writing a book and am now trying to get it published and begin an art career. There is nothing I can't accomplish if I don't drink. Most importantly, I'm at peace with the world and comfortable in my own skin. Drinking never gave me that. For anyone who is new to AA, this program will give you a life that you never dreamed possible, if you will let it, so please stay around until the miracle happens! - Donna


Member: Jeff T.
Location: Ne.
Date: 2/9/2003
Time: 6:22:30 PM

Comments

Jeff, alcoholic. The first things that come to mind for me is like what Bill said its the freedom that i enjoy today. I don`t have to do the things that i did to get a drink. The freedom to live life succesfully, one day at a time. Other good things like ,when i talked to my banker & told him i would like to borrow $100,000 to buy or possibly build a nice little home for the wife & I, to my surprise he didnt chase me out the door or laught at me. Little things like that really scare me. (LOL) Ya know. People told me when i first sobered up that my life would change if i didnt pick up the 1st drink. I guess they were right. Its freedom like that, that makes me grateful that i am sober today. I dont have to be afraid or ashamed of the man in the mirror anymore.


Member: Lessa E
Location: Chicago
Date: 2/9/2003
Time: 6:39:15 PM

Comments

Lessa E here, very grateful recovering alcoholic. Thanks for the topic, Joe Don. It's always good for me to reflect on the gifts of sobriety especially when I'm not in a particularly good place due to emotions and/or circumstances. As a couple others have mentioned, today I'm free of the need to drink. Just a few short years ago, I didn't have a choice on that matter. Despite vows never to repeat the previous evening's performance of coming home from work, drinking myself into oblivion and then passing out, I KNEW deep inside when I woke up that I'd do it again that night. And hopefully, all I'd do is pass out after blacking out. I'd have no way of guaranteeing I wouldn't drive, I wouldn't make abusive phone calls I couldn't remember later, I wouldn't order everything off the shopping network and then wonder why boxes and boxes of junk appeared on my doorstep, I wouldn't eat everything in my freezer, or a hundred other stupid things I'd do in a blackout. Another HUGE gift has been reconnecting with my HP whom I know as God. And letting him work in my life. (Although I have to admit, all too often I try to get into the driver's seat! *G) It's turning EVERYTHING over on a daily and sometimes on a moment-by-moment basis, not just the drinking problem. It's having humility and being teachable. Also, as several others have mentioned, it's reconnecting with family and friends, honestly and openly. Not having the barrier of my own lies about my alcoholism hanging between us and not being talked about, like the pink elephant in the living room everybody is trying to ignore. Now, my circumstances are alot worse than in my drinking days. A few things have been a result of my drinking; yet a couple other HUGE things were out of my control. Life happens...and through the gift of AA and my being sober, I didn't have to take a drink, I have folks in my life who truly love me and want to help and I have a loving God to turn to. What gifts!!! lessa_e@hotmail.com


Member: Charlie Darling
Location: Ft Myers via Key West Fl
Date: 2/9/2003
Time: 7:29:07 PM

Comments

Hi Family Charlie Darling a very grateful recovering alcholic. Boy the rewards of sobriety, it seems as if everyone as touched on most of the basis already. But I have the award to be present and not live a fantasy life, for I now know the real world, and I am not afraid like when I hid in the bottle. But today I am present for all my bialogical family as well as my family of AA. I have had deaths, illness, and near death in my recovery, and I was able to be present for the suffering, as well as myself. I Love this program of Life, and one day at a time I will have 6 sober years on Mar 1st, and that is a great reward. I Love you My Family. kwduke_1999@yahoo.com


Member: Wanda S
Location: Niles, MI
Date: 2/9/2003
Time: 8:05:04 PM

Comments

Hi all. Wanda S. here. The rewards are too numerous to mention,but the greatest is my relationship with my God.Love to all. Wanda S.


Member: Bob D.
Location: Lima, Ohio
Date: 2/10/2003
Time: 8:10:42 AM

Comments

Hi joe. I have been sober since 1/21/84 and I can honestly tell you that I am a mere shadow of the man I used to be. Some of the rewards I have experienced are: I have turned my body from 140 lbs of mere skin and bone to 192 lbs of solid muscle, my marriage was saved, I have not missed a single days work in over 15 years, I own my own home now, I have money in the bank, I have credit cards, I have solid, sober, quality friends and relationships now, but most of all I like me today. It used to be that I took a drink, then the drink took a drink, then the drink took me and everything else in my life. Today I say my prayers, read my literature, work my program, go to meetings, and help other alcoholics and I stay sober one day at a time. Take care and God Bless!


Member: Landscape Ray
Location: scotland
Date: 2/10/2003
Time: 9:02:21 AM

Comments

Hi Joe Don the program has brought a new way of life for me ,when i walked through the doors o A.A.i was a beat man and had no were to turn the bottom line was i had reached my gutter! and when i got sober and put this program into my life then i relised that god could and would if he was saught! i got married again at 8years sober and have been married for 8 years now and god even flung in two wee boys lol. its been a great journey, i use it in my daily life and it works! i have two business now and money in the bank which i know wouldnt mean anything if i lifted that first drink! "nothing i cant face infront of me with the power behind me! Regards Ray


Member: Jana
Location: TX
Date: 2/10/2003
Time: 10:57:24 AM

Comments

Today I am alive. Not surviving and scraping by but living. I have real relationships with people, not just trying to get something for myself. Maybe the greatest gift is knowing the world doesn't revolve around me. :)


Member: MikeL
Location: Kalamazoo MI
Date: 2/10/2003
Time: 12:44:26 PM

Comments

I'm glad this topic was brought up because it's easy for me to forget just how far I've come. I'm 38 years old and 16 months clean. I'm living in a long term treatment center and in that time I've accomplished much because of the program. I'm back in college witha 4.0 gpa and am finally working on clearing up the financial wreckage of my past. I'm dealing with upcoming knee surgery which I always had a perfectly good reason to put off while using. Most of all, I'm starting to like myself again and realize that it's possible to do anything I choose as long as the program is in my life and I remember wher I came from. lomar1964@yahoo.com


Member: Melanie
Location: Ohio, USA
Date: 2/10/2003
Time: 3:50:30 PM

Comments

Hello Friends, I'm Melanie, an alcoholic. I have recieved many gifts in sobriety. I have been able to make a completely new beginning. New home, career, new relationships with my husband and family. The biggest changes have happened in my own mind. I have a new realistic, but optimistic attitude.That comes from faith that the good Lord is working in my life. Even when things don't work out the way I want them to, I can accept the outcomes and work with them. I have learned to take responsibility for my actions. G*d does much for me, but I must do my share. I keep putting one foot in front of the other and try to choose the right path. I am not perfect, but I have grown.I don't always do the right thing, but I have lost that sense of indignation, "I'll show them!" or "I have a right to..." I am thankful for my life and grateful for (most of) the challenges it brings. When I was drinking, I was miserable. I walked around in a fog with a constant feeling of impending doom. Today, I am proud, usually content and I look forward to what may be yet to come. Thank you for being here for me today. Love and blessings to YOU!


Member: Dan S
Location: Vancouver, Wa
Date: 2/10/2003
Time: 5:45:03 PM

Comments

Hi I am Dan an alcoholic and the program has shown me the similarities that we all share. I am approaching five months and it sure helps having strength in numbers.


Member: Siobhan C.
Location: Washington
Date: 2/10/2003
Time: 6:00:22 PM

Comments

siobhan, alcoholic. the greatest gift i received from aa is my self respect. i never had that while i was drinking. i can look at myself in the mirror and honestly say that i like who i am and where i am going with my life. these are not statements i could make when i was drinking. thanks for letting me share.


Member: Dan S
Location: Vancouver, Wa
Date: 2/10/2003
Time: 6:29:54 PM

Comments

Dan here..... about sharing, Gosh it does help not only to verbalize but listening to others, just amazing what I learn.


Member: Dan S
Location: Vancouver, Wa
Date: 2/10/2003
Time: 7:07:48 PM

Comments

Dan an alcoholic checking out for now....keep coming back!


Member: Ron U.
Location: Central Illinois
Date: 2/11/2003
Time: 12:37:03 AM

Comments

WhattaguyJoe! I'm Ron, alcoholic, addict, and currently under fear of success pressure. It's always good to read the good side like the entries above. The last few meetings I went to were on the down side, and that just happens sometimes. I remember right now being told to look in the mirror during my inventory time at the end of the day, and reflect not only on today, but how it's different from the past. My reflection has become boring. I don't see the baggage under the eyes anymore, or the irritations around my lips from hot pipes and cold cans, or swollen blood veins in my eyes, mouth, and nose, or the little bumps and scars that would always turn up God knows where from bumping into people, places, and things with no memory of the collision. My skin looks the same shade each days as it did the day before. My eyes are always clear and wide open. My hair is almost always decently cut and styled, and I can see every detail because I'm not shaking or staggering. All that is fine and good, but the real thing I notice in the mirror is that I feel no shame, guilt, or hatred toward myself or anyone else. I can't tell by looking at me that I have any kind of problem at all. It's a big difference from that guy 3 years back who couldn't look in the mirror without feeling the time to change had long passed. If not for AA, I don't believe I would be able to face myself, or anyone else. Now back to that pesty fear of success... It'll be gone as soon as I'm ready, and I believe that. It's just another step in my path, and the steps I take will work. They have so far, so why not? It's a great thing to know that everything I need to know about me is in a few books I keep in the living room. Thanks all! òó


Member: Rarely
Location: Winnipeg. Man. Can.
Date: 2/11/2003
Time: 4:59:04 AM

Comments

My names Ron and Im an alcohoilic.. no satisfaction has been deeper and no joy greater....To watch the eyes of men and women open with wonder as they move from darkness into light, to see their lives quickly fill with new purpose and meaning, to see whole families reassembled, to see the alcoholic outcast received back into his community in full citizenship, and above all to watch these people awaken to the presence of a loving God in their lives - these things are the substance of what we receive as we carry A.A. message to the next alcoholic


Member: Carol
Location: Atlanta
Date: 2/11/2003
Time: 8:33:15 AM

Comments

Thank God for AA. Each day, I offer a prayer to God, stating that I am an alcoholic and I need his help today. I was taught to keep it simple and to many, many, many times each day, say "Thy Will be Done". Get to a meeting and talk with another alkie and don't drink--ever and I am good to go. This year I have been unemployed, employed and unemployed again. I have been engaged and unengaged. I have had fear of economic insecurity leave me and return, etc. etc. Each day is a new beginning for me as long as I do my best and let God do the rest. Regards...


Member: Rob T.
Location: CANADA
Date: 2/11/2003
Time: 10:53:46 AM

Comments

Greetings from Canada. My name is Rob. I have been coming to AA for 12 years, and have been "away" from the program for the past 2 years drinking and smoking pot. I am back 10 days today and this letter is my attempt to connect with as much support as I can. I am going to meetings and although I have not as yet found a sponsor, it IS my intention to find one today. I am feeling all the feelings associated with early recovery, and it ain't pretty. My dreams are scary, I feel fear almost constantly and tears are always only 10 seconds away. Perhaps my greatest challenge is I am a professional public speaker, and with the ways I am feeling these days, you can only imagine the challenge of being back 10 days brings to my ability & performance. I would feel most blessed if anyone reading this, who can relate to my situation, would take the time to write me and share with me some support. I have never been too great at asking for help, but there comes a time when it's about all you can really do. I feel blessed to have found recovery again ( and this site for that matter) and the last thing I ever want to do is go back out. Having said that, I recognize that recovery is all about "Just For Today". Blessings.Rob My e mail: rob_898@yahoo.com


Member: Brian F
Location: Scotland
Date: 2/11/2003
Time: 2:49:34 PM

Comments

My name is Brian and I'm an alcoholic, to waken up in the morning and remember what I did last night. To not feel the fear of the doorbell, the telephone, the look in the eyes of my family. To be able to look at myself in the mirror. To be able to deal with life on a daily basis tough- no make that real- as it is now.


Member: NATALIE R
Location: conroe, tx
Date: 2/11/2003
Time: 6:23:58 PM

Comments

grateful that aa taught me to stop laying blame, enjoy the moment, be closer to my HP(God). Love the little things in life.


Member: mark f.
Location: central Pa.
Date: 2/11/2003
Time: 6:37:36 PM

Comments

Mark F. here grateful recovering alkie. Most obvious thing for me is waking up, beeing able to suck in breath. Had I continued down the path I was on, this I wouldn`t be capable of I`m sure. I think the love and support of my own family has to be right up there too. Being able to look into my children`s and my wife`s eyes without the shame,guilt,and remorse I once had is a wonderful new thing for me. Also the emotional rollercoaster has finally leveled off "somewhat"


Member: Rhonda
Location: Derry, N.H.
Date: 2/11/2003
Time: 7:15:31 PM

Comments

Hi my name is Rhonda and I am an alcoholic. With sobriety and the steps I've learned to love and respect myself. No more hangovers or blackouts with the help of AA and God. Hi Charlie!


Member: Matthew W.
Location: dry shities Wa.
Date: 2/11/2003
Time: 7:33:30 PM

Comments

I must say the most wonderful thing ive received is the number of friends i have made. if ther is one thing that is important in life, having good friends would have to be it. I would like to especial thank shawna for all your support and guidence in my journy on the clean and sober path


Member: Kim E.
Location: Indiana
Date: 2/11/2003
Time: 10:14:32 PM

Comments

Hi I'm Kim, an alcoholic. I've just returned from an all expense paid business trip to Jamaica. It is a blessing from my Higher Power and I am afraid to accept it deep down inside. I feel like Wayne's World, "we're not worthy, we're not worthy..." But in my head I know I am. I've been working my program for several years. I've worked hard at developing my talents and skills. It is because of this program that I am able to support my family today while my husband changes careers. One year ago I didn't know this would happen. I wanted to have another baby. But my higher power is directing my life and I am providing the energy to show up each day and listen. I have a beautiful daugher that I've been entrusted to care for. She is the greatest gift in my life. The miracle is happening for me. I guess the only thing I need to do is let it. I pray each of you is patient and diligent because it will happen for you too. And I need to remind myself this is a journey not a destination. Thanks for letting me share.


Member: John E.
Location: Tennessee
Date: 2/11/2003
Time: 11:20:08 PM

Comments

My name is John. I am an alcoholic. Thanks for all the comments about your sobriety. This is my 20th year in recovery and I need to be reminded about the journey. At the moment, while I am looking for employment and working under a deadline, I am really afraid of the uncertainties: providing for my wife and daughter, finding a meaningful job and on and on. This reminds me of the Big Book where it talks about (page 62) selfishness-self centeredness and " decisions based on self". This is the discussion leading up to the 3rd step prayer. I'm once again reminded to surrender my will and life over to the care of God. The journey continues.........Thank you


Member: Dakota Larry
Location: The North country
Date: 2/11/2003
Time: 11:23:16 PM

Comments

I cant say too much about the promises as I have only ben sober a few days. I do know it feels good to be able to think clearly and not have that terrible feeling of fear constantly. I am looking forward to the promises though as each 24hr period passes. God bless you all and special prayers for my daughter who is also on her third day of sobriety.


Member: Kelly M
Location: NH
Date: 2/12/2003
Time: 12:56:17 AM

Comments

AA has given me back hope for the future. When I lost hope in end stage drinking it really escalated. Now that I am sober I am starting to entertain different thoughts of what I would like to do with my future. I'm back and I'm starting to think clearly again and I like it!


Member: F.U.C.K.E.D
Location: geographical cure
Date: 2/12/2003
Time: 1:29:19 AM

Comments

AA the steps and the fellowship. Have given me that little thing, that little power, that little sanity, to not take that first drink, and die. Guess you could say i had a mental disorder... one like that of a man who drinks gasoline to put out the fire inside him... i was in big trouble... i was scared, and thought i was totally ""fined for unlawful carnal knowledge""! with and 'ed' on the end of that! anyhow... I'm talking about GOD. but more that just the word god,, i'm talking about the feeling of good, the sense of direction, the feeling that i am really going somewhere, and that my life has a purpose,, and to see others getting it...wow! anything else is a bonus bonus bonus.. cars, houses, lovers, money, material stuff etc. Come on... look at any drunk bum on the skids and imagine him clean and sober,, a homeowner, got himself a girlfriend, and a brand new life filled with meaning and trudging with a definate purpose..and it happens, miracles like that do happen all the time in the world wide fellowship of Alcoholics Anonymous, I was going to mention NA but, NA is nowhere near as sucessful as AA is and i don't like NA. anyhow, if you don't think there's a good...opps.. GOD.. well nothing could convince you i guess.


Member: Gary N.
Location: Waterbury CT USA
Date: 2/12/2003
Time: 6:53:00 AM

Comments

Gary alcoholic and addict here, the BATTLE IS OVER! In my mind and with it came serenity. Love you all.


Member: Gary N.
Location: Waterbury CT USA
Date: 2/12/2003
Time: 6:53:08 AM

Comments

Gary alcoholic and addict here, the BATTLE IS OVER! In my mind and with it came serenity. Love you all.


Member: Andy Mc
Location: Manchester UK
Date: 2/12/2003
Time: 9:05:36 AM

Comments

Hi. My first time here so brief background. Andy, 35 year old male. I drink most days, am I an alcoholic? I don't know. I suffer from pancreatitis (most painful condition I know) due to alcohol intake but I continue to drink. Why? I think it's because I like it. I'm degree educated working in an engineering role, physically healthy going to the gym most weeks and running the odd marathon and half-marathon here and there. I know drinking isn't doing me any good what-so-ever, but that's how I spend my time. I'm single with no responsibilities apart from myself, and going to the pub, having a few beers and a chat with the regulars is what I enjoy, rather than sitting alone at home watching crap tv, telling myself that I'm doing the right thing and my life is so great. Do I want to stop drinking? The answer to this is yes, but then only if I can replace it with something else in life that I can enjoy and occupy my time with. I don't really want to die, but I know I'm going to unless things change. The sad thing is, I'm getting less bothered about dying as time goes by. I think the problem is I'm bored and lonely and the pub and beer relieves that for a couple of hours each evening. Also, I'm currently taking paroxetine for depression which doesn't seem to do do anything positive for me.


Member: Greg K
Location: IL
Date: 2/12/2003
Time: 11:38:06 AM

Comments

Great to be here, Great to be alive. Andy Mc, I can tell you my experinces which have a full range of motion from manipulation to theft, maybe you will identify with me maybe you won't. What I am like now you would never assumed I ever drank if I wasn't always talking about my condition. It excites me to be sober and share in someone elses sobriety. Let me tell you though, although the internet is a great tool in my walk I still need living, breathing, good ole human flesh to lean on. When I looked into the peoples eyes in meetings after I had shared and saw that what I had said was not offensive or appaling to them but very similar I was on my way. My suggestion if you would like to stop drinking is find a local meeting. You wouldn't even have to share, just sit in. I have never been to a bad meeting. I have been blessed in too many ways to mention but a huge lift was the feeling of financial insecurity. I truly feel free.


Member: Amilee
Location: US
Date: 2/12/2003
Time: 12:41:11 PM

Comments

Hello I'm Amilee and I'm an alcoholic. Andy Mc....The only places I felt really "at home" or comfortable in was my own home or a bar. I wanted to stop drinking, too, so I treated myself around my 40th birthday and walked into an AA meeting. I felt instantly "at home" and no longer alone. The difference between these people and the bar people I was so comfortable with was: well, they or most of them were no longer drinking, and instead of just talking about our problems and basically doing nothing about them (like myself and the bar people seemed to do), these people talked about their problems, how they were finding solutions while being in a sound mind, and most importantly about how much they and their lives had changed. So now when I feel bored or alone I know where to go. Keep it simple, just go to a meeting. Thank you for letting me share.


Member: Melanie F.
Location: Ohio, USA
Date: 2/12/2003
Time: 12:59:36 PM

Comments

ANDY Mc: You would like to stop drinking, but only if you can replace it with something else, right? Well, have I got a deal for you! You can replace that drinking right now with new friendships, service to others who need help, an active program of recovery, new found direction and all that comes with AA. I am amazed at how NOT bored I am in sobriety. I can still socialize, play pool, darts, dance, whatever. Now I just do these things with healthy sober people who have my best interest in mind. I also get to improve my mind and body and work on my spiritual life. I have a new set of friends that go to meetings and socialize in restaurants,coffee houses and homes. Not to mention that time with my family has increased. ANDY Mc! Don't be worried about boredom in sobriety. It won't be a problem unless you let it!


Member: Kelly M
Location: NH
Date: 2/12/2003
Time: 3:28:43 PM

Comments

((Andy Mc)), Wow, You really seem to have it all together. Good job, running in marathons, working out etc. On the other hand you are dying of Pancreatitis caused by drinking and you spend your evenings in bars. Do you really have a deathwish or cannot stop drinking? Which is it or both? I dare you to stop for a complete week and make one AA meeting a night and then come back and tell us about how the week went. If you can do this you are probably not an alcoholic. It's only a week without alcohol and 7 AA meetings. Are you up to the challenge? Amilee, Melanie and I will cheer you on! They are so right about all the benefits that AA has to offer. This challenge should be a piece of cake for a marathoner like yourself...BTW if you don't want to or can't then your most definately an alcoholic...:(


Member: joe don A
Location: nova scotia canada joe_don55@hotmail.com
Date: 2/12/2003
Time: 4:12:14 PM

Comments

joe here thx for all your posts on your gifts from aa. as for myself i have 6 mo. an i can't beleave the changes that have takin place in my life. i joined the ymca for my health an studying to become a counsilor for addictions an 6 mo.s ago i was at the lowest point of my life. i have just found my daughter after 22yr.s shes only 23yr.s old so we are learning to know one another. how god works in our lives so i thought it would be nice to here you people an what gifts you all have receved. thank you all for sharing god bless you all an may you all have another 24 hr.s joe


Member: Kathleen
Location: Floral City, Fl
Date: 2/12/2003
Time: 4:12:45 PM

Comments

Hello ((Everyone)) Kathleen here alcoholic. What AA has given me...wow... much too much to list here.. THe feeling of freedom that came from working the steps..especially the 4th and 5th, was undescribable... I've been on spiritual highs unmatched by any drugs or alcohol. From a skid row bum to where I am today, in my own home, with a job I love and good friends...geesh...it's amazing.. I love this program and ya'll for being here... peace Kathleen


Member: John G.
Location: Maryland
Date: 2/12/2003
Time: 4:25:16 PM

Comments

Hello, everybody, I'm John and an alcoholic. Boy, what a week! Family tells me not to come over for Super Bowl party, that it will make them uncomfortable to have me around all that booze! Second, my boss calls me a liar and tells me not to do it again. Third, a girlfriend (not a serious one, still in first year) e-mails me and says she doesn't think we're going to work out. All of this occurred, but one thing happened that brings it all into perspective: I picked up my five-month chip! Yet the consequences of years of ridiculous behavior and dishonesty are still around; my boss loves me, as does my family, so they're proud of me. But at the same time, their eyes are open and they are keeping them on me. It's my past behavior that they remember. The sober part is fantastic, I am very thankful and relieved for the time I have. My sponsor reminds me that I have one thing in common with old timers--I have a day at a time. At any rate, my family's and boss' attitude is one of "great, you're sober, but we're still letting you know that you're not on solid ground yet. And they're right. I still have my job and I still have my family. I can still see my family when they're not entertaining with alcohol at their home. I know my place is at a meeting on a day like that. On any day, actually. As for the female friend, I know I'm not superman--which is what I thought when I drank. I know that not all things are going to work out with relationships. I have the freedom to accept my shortcomings and be blessed by my sobriety. God bless, and thanks, John G.


Member: cl
Location: calgary
Date: 2/12/2003
Time: 5:35:41 PM

Comments

HI THERE my name is Cindy L I'am an alochic my blessings go out to everybody who either gets this steo or not keep trying as things do get eaiser.......... GOD bless


Member: kim V
Location: kvaughn@madison.main.nc.us
Date: 2/12/2003
Time: 7:41:28 PM

Comments

Kim V here alcoholic. What promises have come tue for me. Well I got out of prsion after 5 years, was reunited with my daughter, regained custody of her. I got treatment off hepatits c and now it is in remission. i got a job and learned to support myself and my daughter. I Moved to a wonderful community where I was welcomed with open arms, regarless of my past. I have met wonderful friends in the fellowship of AA that will last a life time. I was able to move my 100 year old grandmother from Florida up to NC to live here with me in my house and now am able to make amends to her and be useful to her and others. I am now a valued member of this community and recently bought a home, even though a am a single parent who never had a job til I was 37 years old. I now have some self confidence, spend countless hours in therapy and in ACOA and am learning to break the cycle of dysfuction for the next generation in my family. I no longer live in consant fear. I have learned to deal with anxiety and depression. I no longer have to hide who I am, or where I have been. I no longer have secrets and don't have to worry that so and so will find out. And the best part is that most of the time I am joyous, happy and free. I have been sober 6 1/2 years and have been out of prison since July 2000. My Higher Power has been good to me. thanks for being here.


Member: Thomas M
Location: S. Fla
Date: 2/13/2003
Time: 6:36:51 AM

Comments

Way to go Kim. That's a great story. Thanks


Member: Adelea I.
Location: Dresden, Germany
Date: 2/13/2003
Time: 9:56:31 AM

Comments

Andy Mc. Thank you for being honest with us, and hopefully with yourself. I related to the lonliness you wrote of. Even from being a little girl, I always felt alone and scared, as if everyone else knew something that I did nto and they were happy for it. and when I took my first drink at 9years old, I felt less scared adn less alone for the first time in mylife. the rest of my "chemical career" chased these same feelings, but to acheive these feelings, I HAD to drink and drug. when I was loaded, I felt like a whole human being, comfortable in my own skin, as if I also knew this big secret, that kept me feeling so seperate from everyone else. when I got sober, ihad not lost a family, a career, a life, BUT when I drank, I always had a moment when I felt the wind blowing through a hole in my gut-that alcohol coudl nto soothe. today, my life is different. I do not feel seperate or different from anyone in this world. This is because of the fellowship of AA. I went to face-to-face meetings, got a sponsor and did everything she suggested-which included being of service to others, working the steps, repairing relaitonships and finding a GOD I coudl relate to. I live half-way across the world from my friends and family and i still do not feel alone or scared the way I did when I drank. that is a miracle. my life is ful today, and the AA is the cake, while everythign else- home, friends, husband-are just the icing. and if the icing melts away, I always have the cake. which always tastes -oh-so-good!!!-thanks


Member: Pete H
Location: Arizona,USA
Date: 2/13/2003
Time: 11:07:32 AM

Comments

My name is Pete, and I'm an alcoholic. My fear Andy Mc is that next year,this time,you won't be with us to share your pain. You are not alone. There are many who felt as you do. Today,though,thanks to the fellowship of AA and people like yourself,who once were dying from this disease,we have found eachother. Please find us and embrace us and let us love you until you can learn to truly love yourself. This IS the one true place for someone like us to begin to LIVE. I remain, your friend in sobriety, benjimbird @aol.com. Anytime,we're here for you!


Member: Lois Laatsch
Location: California
Date: 2/13/2003
Time: 12:03:55 PM

Comments

My name is Lois Laatsch and I am an alcoholic. I need to agree with Wanda here. Perhaps the greatest reward this program has brought me is my relationship with my higher power. As they say - I thank God for AA - and I thank AA for my God. I was dying a wretched horrible alcoholic death before I got sober. What a miracle to live such a good life today.


Member: rICHARD
Location: KANSAS
Date: 2/13/2003
Time: 2:19:00 PM

Comments

Hi everybody i"m Richard a drunk from kansas, nice day to be sober thanks to people like you all. and you see that what god means to me is a Group Of Drunks ain"t that simple way of GOD, hUG SOMEBODY AND MAKE THEM FEEL GOOD, FOR EVERY 60 SECOND OF ANGER YOU LOSE 1 MIN OF HAPPINESS


Member: Rich P
Location: Colorado
Date: 2/13/2003
Time: 3:24:06 PM

Comments

No hangovers! I had the flu last week and just curled up in bed waiting for it to be over. Several times I woke up and my first thought was, "Oh shit, I drank!" Then I would clear away the sleepiness and realize I was sick with the viral flu not the cocktail flu. I actually felt guilty because the sensation was so similar, except there was no headache or shakes or wondering what was on the front of my shirt. Today I can meditate without any pain in my body, and a clear head. Peace.


Member: KATARZYNA S.
Location: CHICAGO
Date: 2/13/2003
Time: 4:03:53 PM

Comments

IT IS VERY HARD FOR A WOMAN TO ADMITT THAT SHE IS AN ALCOHOLIC. IT WAS VERY HARD TO ENTER THE FIRST MEETING. NOW EVERYTHING MAKES SENSE. THE MOST IMPORTANT THING IS TO STAY SOBER AND EVERYTHING ELSE WILL COME LATER


Member: C>L
Location: CALGARY
Date: 2/13/2003
Time: 5:42:08 PM

Comments

Hello Joe Today the "AA" program has brought not just me,but to my family a lot of light.When I use to wake up the day's seemed to be full of darkness,now but for the grace of my HIGHER POWER I can go and get what ever needs to be done,and this is all done from a wheelchair. Please take it one day at a time or whatever work's for you my friend.Take care of yourself. CALGARY ALBERTA


Member: C>L
Location: CALGARY
Date: 2/13/2003
Time: 5:47:06 PM

Comments

Hello Joe Today the "AA" program has brought not just me,but to my family a lot of light.When I use to wake up the day's seemed to be full of darkness,now but for the grace of my HIGHER POWER I can go and get what ever needs to be done,and this is all done from a wheelchair. Please take it one day at a time or whatever work's for you my friend.Take care of yourself. CALGARY ALBERTA


Member: Marv L
Location: Laurel,Ms
Date: 2/13/2003
Time: 6:04:54 PM

Comments

Hi,I"m Marv L,alcoholic.So grateful for the gift of sobriety today,enjoyed reading,learning.Thanks,everyone,for sharing. REcovery takes time..Thank God there comes a time we can accept life on lifes terms,but growth is sometimes slow. We were given a potted bulb at Christmas,directions were to keep it moist,and place in indirect sun. Seven weeks later now,and wow! First we saw only an ugly tip of a stem,then buds,and now FOUR GIANT AMARiLYSS blooms are nodding at us.!!Kinda unreal that all that pretty was inside that bulb! I asked for help from AA,hoping i could put the bottle down--and what I received was SO MUCH MORE! Alcohol helped me fanticize ,recovery helped me realize,and today Im comfortable in my own skin,and have established a relationship with a loving God as i understand Him.Thanks everyone and dont give up five minutes before the miracle happens!


Member: Rita F
Location: Indiana
Date: 2/13/2003
Time: 10:07:14 PM

Comments

Hi Family, My name is Rita and I AM an alcoholic. Thanks for the topic!! I woke up this morning and forgot that every day I wake up sober, I'm overpaid. I just recently quit my job (remembering in the meetings that getting sober to me meant everything would be "perferct")and for once, I do not feel like a loser. The gifts of this program are more than I can state in just words. My HP whom I choose to call God, has helped me put an end to the legacy of drinking and death in my family, just for today. I thank you all for your posts, I came up to the computer to work on my new web site, (www.indy1.com) and feeling like I had made a mistake for trying to start my career over. I forgot the one important thing: I AM NO LONGER IN CHARGE! I just need to have an attitude of gratitude, and evict those folks who are living rent free in my head. I have clothes on my back, I ate a hot meal tonight, I have a roof over my head, and there's gas in my car. I am truly blessed! Love and peace to all my beloved alcoholics, who show me time after time that this program works if you work it. Thanks for letting me share!!


Member: Michael B.
Location: AZ
Date: 2/14/2003
Time: 12:01:42 AM

Comments

Hi! My name is Michael, and I am a recovering aloholic and addict, sober today only by the Grace of God and the Fellowship of Alcoholics Anonymous. Thanks for the sincere shares. Welcome newcomers! In addition to my sobriety, AA has made me conscious of a spiritual dimension and life. Prior to AA, I had no idea what spirituality was about. I had only known a little about religion, e.g. church, the Bible, etc. For me, AA has fulfilled what many religious institutions were intended for--a spiritual awakening or rebirth.


Member: tammibob@msn.com
Location: WallyWorld Washington State
Date: 2/14/2003
Time: 2:53:05 AM

Comments

All that I have gained from becoming and staying sober wow! I really like what Gary had to say. In the best AA tradition, he kept it simple. But what he said was HUGE! I have been given a life that is graced with serenity ad tools to use if other things enter in. Today I know the meaning of freedom, choice and honesty. I can practice compassion, tolerance and patience; before I came here I wasn’t willing and I was full of ego. I know today I LOVE humility and another opportunity to learn and practice what is suggested to me in AA. I recognize a power grater than myself whom I can entrust with my will and my life. Before I came here I had never lived, and I am just now starting to do that everyday… Thanks to all in AA that work a good program and even those who don’t. The world needs people like us. tammibob@msn.com


Member: tammibob@msn.com
Location: Many Waters Washington State
Date: 2/14/2003
Time: 2:59:38 AM

Comments

Oh, and by the way; I would like to add, My HP helps care for my will and life as it says in the BB. I try not to get in the way...


Member: AnilG
Location: MtVernon,IL
Date: 2/14/2003
Time: 8:16:10 AM

Comments

I am an alcholic some of the good things that aa has done is the very first and most important is that I am still alive i would have been dead i had given up on my life I thought it was all over well I was surprised underestimated the power of GOD I got another chance and another life to start all over again. thanks toaa and aloalnon.


Member: Lisa K
Location: Michigan
Date: 2/14/2003
Time: 8:50:39 AM

Comments

Hi everyone! I'm Lisa and I'm an alcoholic! Thanks to the fellowship of AA and my higher power I havent had the desire to pick up a drink in 76 days!!!! This fellowship has given me sooo much. most of all my life back and the freedom to choose. I still have my down times as we all do its just part of life but this program has taught me how to LIVE!!! I have a serenity that I've never known and REAL friends I never had. i am so grateful for all of you! thanks for being here and letting me share! Keep coming back!!!!


Member: Vee
Location: Midwest
Date: 2/14/2003
Time: 8:52:12 AM

Comments

AA has given me a brand new life full of love, strength, beauty and hope. Amazing Grace, how sweet....


Member: Landscape Ray
Location: scotland
Date: 2/14/2003
Time: 9:18:47 AM

Comments

((Andy))Think a visit to your local hospital liver ward would change your mind! go to the gym more at night, the most important one is "thats if you want to stop drinking" go to meetings theres one on every night Andy so "if" you want to get sober then meetings is your answer. dont lift the first drink and go to meetings ! i wish you well Regards Ray


Member: Janice C
Location: Kinsman, Ohio
Date: 2/14/2003
Time: 1:36:01 PM

Comments

Hi, I'm Janice and I'm an alcoholic. The greatest gift that the program has given me is the knowledge that I can live life one day at a time. I don't always do it but when I do, when I actually live in the moment, it is amazing. I believe that this is truly the secret to my serenity. The greatest reward of the program is the absence of fear.


Member: Chris T.
Location: On the Road Again
Date: 2/14/2003
Time: 6:41:35 PM

Comments

hello my name is chris and i am a real alcoholic. I claim home in baltimore maryland and spend many of my days on the road for business. i see the topic is benefits of the program. whew! good topic and the timing could not be better. When i came to the program on December 13th of 1995 for which i am forever grateful, i had hit a bottom never to be forgotten. It was my third try at the program and this time something was different. Today, i have an entirely new life, a new family and a new outlook. I am doing another inventory to peel another layer of the onion, for it is now 7 years plus and recently there had been signs of negative thinking. I have been given the grace to view life with clear eyes, to see the color of the leaves on the trees and to know that i play a very small role in the puzzle of life but without me the puzzle is incomplete. I have been rocketed into the fourth dimension and i can feel that the fifth dimension is not very far away. Today i am reasonably happy, confident, serene (most of the time) and know that i am loved and that i can love myself. I know a new sense of freedom and can intuitively respond to issues which previously would leave me in a drunken stupor. These are the gifts i have obtained and that i continue to work for. They are not free and do not arrive my osmosis. It is awesome. thanks for letting me share.


Member: Dry in the Desert
Location: Nevada
Date: 2/14/2003
Time: 9:13:30 PM

Comments

My name is Walter and I am an Alcoholic. Wonderful Topic ! A.A. did not save my life… A.A. gave me a life worth living !! In sobriety: I do not have a house….I have a HOME. I do not have a job….I have a CAREER. I do not have friends……I have FAMILY. And my miracles and adventures in Sobriety have given me absolute proof positive of God in my Life. My all the newcomers find the “useful and content” life we all seek.


Member: rani b.
Location: hagerstown, md
Date: 2/15/2003
Time: 12:07:17 AM

Comments

hi i'm rani, i'm an alcholic....the program has brought me the gift of ACCEPTANCE and being able to accept my mother, father and everyone else for who they are...it has taught me that they may not change and i am the one who has to change in how i react....the program has taught me that people do get 2nd chances at a new way of life and a life without the pain and suffering that accompanies drinking...it has taught me gratitude and the positive outcomes of a changed attitude...i hope it will continue...thanks for letting me share.


Member: Charlie Darling
Location: Ft Myers via Key West FL
Date: 2/15/2003
Time: 8:23:26 AM

Comments

Hi Family, Charlie Darling a very grateful recovering alcholic. Sorry for posting twice this week, but after I read Dry in the Desert', share. I just had to say I have never heard a statement so terrific to describe what the program does for us. Thank you all for giving me a great week of postings, you help make my days alot better. I Love You Charlie kwduke_1999@yahoo.com


Member: Joy S.
Location: Chas. SC
Date: 2/15/2003
Time: 8:58:35 AM

Comments

Thank you for the topic.When I came to AA, I couldn't stop drinking but only a small amount of booze would get me to the blackout stage. I was terrified and trapped. My life was a mess in everyway one's life can be a mess. One week after starting the program, I got a new career. I had been miserable in management in retail for several years, now I work with seniors in a warm water therapy pool. I can't imagine my life without all the people I work with. I was terrified to get in front of a group- I had no self confidence or self esteem- but at my home group, we share in front of the group. As the group accepted me, and loved me into a new life, it helped me to resolve some of my insecurity issues. Something I had to have for this job, and for my life. I have made real friends in the program and am learning relationship skills, I have a background of abuse and didn't have any- or trust anyone. For a long time I subsisted with people close on the outside who knew nothing of what I felt inside, and I wouldn't reach out because I felt that everyone would hurt me. I have people I can call instead of hiding in my own mind in my confusion and fear, and I know thier response will be kind and loving. I don't have the words to express the awe that inspires in someone like me, from where I've been. While drinking, I had been in a serious relationship with what I considered the love of my life 12 years ago for 2 years, we broke up because we both didn't know how to deal with life or ourselves.( When I came into the program I was with the meanest bastard I have ever let into my life- and I broke it off because the program gave me the courage to.)When I was sober almost a year, I ran into the love of my life sober in the program- we were in different cities so we didn't know about each other. He made his amends to me and it altered my life, there were things I had been unable- or unwilling! to get past. We started going to meetings and talking on the phone, we understood each others struggles. After a while we started slow and began seeing each other. We have a wonderful thing, sober and positive. Our sobriety individualy comes first and HP! I can't tell you how happy I am, and I can only recall being happy once before in my life! As someone said above "success anxiety"- I had it something awful, still do sometimes! I no longer hear the fear and desperation in my mother's voice when she askes me how I'm doing in AA. At first she was so afraid but now she's happy for me! Thats just the tip of the iceburg but I reaize I've gone on for too long! And in closing I feel hope for my future, somthing I had given up on years ago. I don't have to plod theough my life anymore I welcome the day and what HP has for me. SO VERY GRATEFUL. Thank you, RD! So good to see all of these stories, we are recovering!


Member: Kelly M
Location: NH
Date: 2/15/2003
Time: 10:06:48 AM

Comments

(((Joy S))) You are a joy! Thanks for the dose of E,S,& H this morning. God bless.


Member: Bill F.
Location: Lost Angeles, CA
Date: 2/15/2003
Time: 10:27:18 AM

Comments

Gifts - JoeDon's post took me back two years when I enjoyed a great week in the rain and cold in Halifax at the end of February. The chowder, the clams, the people - a fantastic time though I was working 12 hours a day - all because I was sober. And then I got down to Andy Mac and remembered 22 years ago when I walked alon the canal and across the soccer pitch in Manchester and a beautiful woman told me I was a user and a drunk and she would appreciate it if I would go back tot hestates and not communicate with her at all anymore. And she was absoluteley right. Both these remembrances are gifts reminding me what it was like. Thursday I was 59 years old and very grateful to be still alive. April 6th will mark 19 years since last drink and I will be very grateful to be alive. I reach down and scratch my happy little dog, sip some hot coffee and send him off to wake my beautiful and sober wife of nearly 10 years and I thank my higher power for all these gifts of justpracticing a few simple principles on a daily basis and not picking up the first drink. Andy - go to an AA meeting once instead of to the pub - it worked almost exactly that way for me.


Member: CHRIS H.
Location: FLA.
Date: 2/15/2003
Time: 4:12:46 PM

Comments

I'm Chris---I'm an alcoolic...addict..Bulimic What are the many benefits of the Program of A.A.?For me SERENITY---HOPE---COURAGE---PROGRESS NOT PERFECTION---LIVING ONE DAY OR MOMENT AT A TIME-JOY-KNOWING THAT THERE IS A PLACE I CAN GO AND SHARE ANYTHING THAT IS ON MY MIND..THAT I HAVE A PERSON(MY SPONSOR) I WHITH WHOM I CAN SHARE ANYTHING AT ANYTIME..KNOWING THAT MY HIGHER POWER HAS ALL THE ANSWERS I NEED/// THAT I DON'T HAVE TO SOLVE MY PROBLEMS ON MY OWN( I NEVER COULD ANYWAY)-KNOWING THAT SECRETS MAKE YOU SICK..KNOWIING THAT THE MORE I LET GO AND LET GOD THE HAPPIER I WILL BE...KNOWING THAT I CAN BE MYSELF THAT I DON'T HAVE TO LIVE A LIFE THAT IS CONSTANTLY TRYING TO BE WHAT OTHERS WANT...AND MOST OF ALL KNOWING THAT I CAN FAIL AND CAN START OVER AGIAIN...I CAN EVEN START MY DAY OVER WITH A FRESH START ANY TIME DURING THE DAY...As others have said, my relationship with my Higher Power has made all of this possible. I have learned in A.A. that my Higher Power is a God of forgiveness and new beginnings...I am still learning that on a daily basis..But I have learned in A.A. that it is o.k. to not have it all together and know it all now...I am saying that because I need to hear it. I, Too, still have "Success Phobia" >>.I think that I create problems for myself becausee I don't know how to live life without them...But that is O.K. too...My Higher POWER DOES NOT HAVE A BIG HAMMER waiting to bang me over the head if I don't have it all right...I think it will take me a long time to really get that principle..but I am so greatful to this program for teaching me that It is O.K. if I just keep sober. What a great topic...Thanks to all here...


Member: Bertelot
Location: Cologny
Date: 2/16/2003
Time: 3:08:14 AM

Comments

Nothing as certin for this is the only day i haves. Is the only way i lives today. Nothing is more powered than is God, His blessing me and i do not even knows as times how much is His love. Never does i fear more today because His love. Fellowship as friendship with others i have not before i know His love. His guide me to light i can not seem before this fellowship. Thank.