Member: Bonnie Z.
Location: PA
Date: 29 Aug 1999
Time: 08:18:19

Comments

Bonnie, alcoholic, here. Wow, never been first before. How about the topic of gratitude?

I remember early meetings. If that topic was brought up, there sometimes were a lot of groans. Know what? I can never be too grateful. I laid my head down on the pillow last night, sober, and woke up today, sober, without a headache, remembering everything. For that I am truly grateful.

I cannot thank the people that went before me enough. Some I will never thank in person, but to show my gratitude I can help pass on the awesome program we were given.

Something I remember from early recovery: I was in a pity pot, and someone said, "What do you have to be grateful for? Make a list." Well, pretty soon there was a lot on it, and I was no longer in that pity pot. Every time I sit down to make one of those lists, it gets bigger. You can't put a drink in a headful of gratitude.

I am also grateful for all of you being here. Love ya lots.

JTBSFRIEND@aol.com ICQ#36724928


Member: Chuck
Location: Texas
Date: 29 Aug 1999
Time: 08:50:01

Comments

Hi, I'm Chuck and I'm an alcoholic. Been sober all day, and that's by the Grace of God.

I'm grateful to be sober and that you chose this topic, Bonnie. I agree with what you said.

Last week I was at an AA conference and they had an archives room. It was full of old photos, Big Books, and so forth. I found myself in front of a dated display of Bill W. and Dr. Bob, pictures of the beginnings of our way of life. I began thinking about the significance of their experience and how it had been passed on to me by you people. Tears poured down my cheeks. I am so grateful to be a link in the chain of people who have had a spiritual awakening as the result of the steps. I am grateful that God gave us a gift by which we can recover from a hopeless state of mind and being. I am grateful for my sponsors over the years and for those I sponsor and have sponsored. I am grateful for the fellowship and the Big Book.

I am grateful that God has done for me what I could never do for myself for over 15 years. I am grateful that this path that I MUST follow one day at a time is the only one I want today.

God Bless all here. Love from Texas.


Member: Lisa C.
Location: MA
Date: 29 Aug 1999
Time: 09:10:00

Comments

Hello. I'm grateful for this program and all the people here that give me support and a group of people that don't want to drink. Many thanks for people who can help you get through it. Have a nice sober day.


Member: john k
Location: nj
Date: 29 Aug 1999
Time: 09:15:02

Comments

my name is john and I am an alcoholic......I often forget to be grateful and have become adjusted to being sober. That is good and bad as I sometimes take for granted that which is a special gift. Meetings are not currently a part of my life-style, but I have fond memories of the early days. My life now is ordinary and relativly calm, for this I am grateful.


Member: Christa H
Location: USA
Date: 29 Aug 1999
Time: 09:35:52

Comments

I am grateful that this forum exists, and that my two weeks of not drinking ent by so easily. Participating in this forum is my preference over f2f meetings, and no, I am not socially challenged. I communicate on the computer with my overseas fiance all the time, and it works for AA mee6tings as well for me.


Member: Rex C.
Location: Newnan, Ga.
Date: 29 Aug 1999
Time: 11:19:38

Comments

I have Just gotten sober again. I to am so grateful to my Higher Power whom I choose to call God to have another 24 hrs. It is so wonderful to be able to remember yesterday and not feel like I'm dying. Today is my grandaughter's second birthday and by the Grace of God I'll be able to enjoy it with her and my daughter clean and sober. Praise God!


Member: Kate J.
Location: Colorado
Date: 29 Aug 1999
Time: 11:20:52

Comments

Kate here, sober grateful alcoholic from Colorado. Thank you for all your posts, especially to you, John, for posting my thoughts! I too often forget to be grateful, having become accustomed, in 7+ years sober, to not waking up like there's a small building parked on my head. It is always the right time to stop and make a gratitude list, and to remember that what I really have is a daily reprieve, contingent on the maintenance of my spiritual condition. I am only one drink away from that terrible life I left behind. I am so grateful for the life I have today, and for all of you, also. Have a wonderful, sober week...twenty four at a time!


Member: Frank
Location: NJ,  USA
Date: 29 Aug 1999
Time: 11:30:29

Comments

Hi Everyone, Frank, Alcoholic.

I'm grateful that for today, I'm not putting the people who care about me thru the wringer. I thought I had hit my bottom when I had lost everything including myself in a sea of alcohol and deeper insanity that led to a mental institution. With the help of AA, the fellowship, the program and eventually my understanding of God I began to get better, one day at a time.

Relationships improved. Employment improved. I was active in AA and for the first time in a while had some self esteem and felt happy. I had some peace and was willing to help others.

I'm grateful that after a series of drunks over a period of 1 1/2 to 2 years, after being without a drink for 5 years, there is peace, serenity, and joy in my life and I am not a burden to family and others who care.

I know my drinking from almost a year ago didn't take away everything but I do know that I was lost. Seeing my mother in tears not knowing what she could do, not being able to hold my little niece because I was too drunk and hungover. Being physically ill from alcohol. Becoming unemployed. Almost losing my driving license and truck. A relationship with a woman ended. Etc.

I'm at a point where I do not regret my past but look to the future with hope. Once again the second step provides that and I believe it. Working steps with my sponsor and others and taking suggestions continues to work. I hope I never drift away from the program or the AA fellowship again. I hope that my relationship with a Higher Power continues to grow.


Member: John M.
Location: Ventura CA
Date: 29 Aug 1999
Time: 12:03:04

Comments

My name is John and i am an alcoholic. My belief/faith in God is the cornerstone of my life and sobriety, and prayer is how I remember this. I have tried many types of prayer over my 5+ years sober and they were all helpful but the one type of prayer that has consistantly brought results are prayers of gratitude. I know I am spiritually fit when seemingly bad things happen but I remain calm and grateful for my life.


Member: Joel H.
Location: Sandhills, N.C.
Date: 29 Aug 1999
Time: 12:06:03

Comments

I'm Joel and I'm an alcoholic. Took a lot of pain and suffering on my part and others for me to finally hit a "true" bottom and accept alcoholism and be O.K. with it. I have an opportunity today to experience life and people who really love me. I don't have to run away anymore. I don't have to react the way I was so used to reacting. Acceptance is the key, and thanks to a God of my understanding, the one that has always been and always will be, and the people of A.A. and the steps I don't have to drink today if I choose to practice a few simple things. I had to be beaten down to a pulp, alcohol was no longer a friend, but a sworn enemy. There are more problems than alcohol, but today I have the chance to change. Thanks, and I hope all of us will stay sober today .


Member: Gerri M
Location: Alaska
Date: 29 Aug 1999
Time: 12:15:26

Comments

Hi I'm Gerri Alcoholic, I just got back last week from a 21 day recovery. I'm grateful for all the young "punks" that were there, and all the old time alcoholics and druggies that shed the light on how life should NOT be. I'm thankful to the wonderful nurses and counselors, who also too were recovering. I could almost say that I had a "Blast" while there... but it was a blast into the future...my future of sobriety. I am so happy to wake up clear headed and actually looking forward to a day of adventure in a clean and sober life. I got my 30 day coin last week. I had my husband drill holes in my 30day and 24 hr. coins ,I put them on a charm bracelet and I plan on collecting them all, to wear proudly. One day at a time. The "old timers" say good things will start happening to you, when you get sober.I didn't really believe it...but in this mo. and a half I see numerous blessings...so many that it wears me out just thinking about them.So I will abreiviate: Loving, tusting husband/ happy children/sober "of age" children/peace of mind/ lack of fear for what I "might" have done the night-before/Joy in the simple things/A chance to get a good job...and on and on. Staying sober is similar to fasting and praying, miracles happen...God reacts... Thank You


Member: Merv. D.
Location: North Bay Ontario Can.
Date: 29 Aug 1999
Time: 12:51:44

Comments

Hi I'm Merv. and a grateful alcoholic. The number one thing on my gratittude list is the fact that I became alcoholic. if i wouldn't have I would be missing out an all the beutiful benifits of this wonderful program and would be still in all the fears and negative feeling that go with the emotion of fear. alcoholics anonymous has taught me how to live . This is a wonderfull side benefit besides getting sober.

Than you all for this program and for sharing, Merv.


Member: Lori D
Location: N.H. USA
Date: 29 Aug 1999
Time: 14:03:56

Comments

I am Lori and I am an alcoholic.Gratitude rhymes with attitude and I know that for myself if my attitude is starting to slip that I need to make a gratitude list. When I first got sober, I didn't like the idea of being grateful for anything. After I got an old timer sponsor, I began to understand that my attitude was one of an active drunk, not a sober person.My sponsor made me sit down and write a list of things that I had to be grateful for. The pluses sure did outweigh the minuses. The biggest plus was a continuing sobriety that is now in it's 15th year. To Christa H., I wish you luck in staying sober without really getting to know us drunks, face to face. Just words on a screen. Maybe you are in better shape than I was when I was newly sober, but I had to see people and be seen by them to get the help I needed. The age of technology is great, but it is a poor substitute for real people that will love and help you.


Member: Bob P.
Location: Poway CA
Date: 29 Aug 1999
Time: 14:07:56

Comments

Grateful to be free today, without a hangover and with a beautiful family that God has restored to me, because of this program of recovery, and humbling myself to it and my God. I am a bull headed, egotistical and self centered by nature. Because of this wonderful program, and a great boss who has 24+years in this program-I have the opportunity to learn how to step aside and let my hight\er power work. Thanks for the reminders to be grateful. It helped me to read all yiour sharing! Love


Member: JCP ^\^
Location: Penn's Woods
Date: 29 Aug 1999
Time: 14:21:27

Comments

"Gratitude should go forward, rather than backward. "In other words, if you carry the message to still others, you will be making the best possible repayment for the help given to you." --As Bill Sees It, 29

J here, a grateful alcoholic: I'm on my way right now to a meeting for any who have nothing better to do on a Sunday afternoon -- meaning it comes and goes, but it's always there.

I thought the topic was presented well here. Not so much on a screen as in a meeting, a lot of us were a long time coming around to a point of gratitude that more than "fake it till you make it."

All that time -- a year or more -- I thought I was buying time at best, but surely wouldn't make it. I was right, too, there was no way I could stay sober indefinitely alone.

So now, if I still know I couldn't have done it, my only clue is those meetings. Thanks for the topic.

dixyflier@usa.net


Member: Norrie D
Location: Edinburgh Scotland
Date: 29 Aug 1999
Time: 14:44:20

Comments

Gratitude: it's somthing I often forget, but I don't forget 4.m. tribunials when I would wake up without a drink shaking scared of dying but even more scared of living. Would I lose my family (yep I did) after six years of in and out I finally got back on the program. With out a doubt if I do not strive to have gratitude for my soberity I could become complacient but my sponser jets lets me know in a nice way no matter how long you've been sober never forget you only have it a day at a time by the grace of God.

Sorry if its a bit dis-jointed first Iever sent a comment on line as far as my AA is concerned.

May I wish you Soberity One day at a time.

Kind Regards


Member: Andre
Location: Ontario
Date: 29 Aug 1999
Time: 15:12:51

Comments

Hi Andre and am an alcholic. Thanks for the topic. I always have to force myself to think of what I should be grateful. It is in my nature to complain and whine about how bad life has treated me. I try, every morning to think and write down three things that I should be grateful for. My sobriety, the fellowship, my health , living in Canada where we have free choice of expression and my family. I am also like Merv of having known the program. I do not know what I would be without my sobriety and the program. I accept my alcoholism and all its negative side effects. And thru gratitude, I can let go of self pity that haunts me more than often on. Have a happy 24 hrs. I am also grateful for this Staying Cyber online. Thanks to the managers. Andre


Member: BILLW
Location: CHEASPEAKEVA
Date: 29 Aug 1999
Time: 16:34:45

Comments

HI,BILL W.ALCOHOLIC.I HAVE A LOT TO BE,GRATEFUL FOR.FOR ONE THIS IS TEN DAYS FOR ME.SINCE I BEEN SOBER.I HAVE FOUNED A GIRL THAT LOVES ME.MY FAMLIY IS CLOSER THAN WE HAVE BEEN IN YEARS.I FOUND A SPONSOR.I HAVE LEARN TO LIKE MYSELF.I WOULD LIKE TO THANK,THIS SITE.AND THE PEOPLE IN IT.SO AS YOU SEE I HAVE A LOT TO BE GRATEFUL FOR.THANKS FOR LETING ME SHARE. GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU .I HOPE THAT THINGS WELL COME EASY FOR EVERYONE.YOUR FREIND BILL W. EVERYRV


Member: Stan P
Location: Pa.
Date: 29 Aug 1999
Time: 17:10:07

Comments

Hello everybody I'm Stan and I'm an alcoholic I am grateful the obsession to drink is gone,Thanx to My Higher Power And To You members Of AA. I still have a problem with self I need the Meetings The Slogans ,The principalsand yes gratitude to get me out of self,It is a simple program but it is not easyThank You for being HereI pray to keep open to learning and to get out of self Gratitude was automatic when the bottomcomes.I must remember my last drunk.It keeps me grateful Thanks for letting me share Stan P


Member: andy m
Location: somerset, pa
Date: 29 Aug 1999
Time: 17:43:15

Comments

gratitude is best displayed by action. there is more to AA than attending meetings,are we active in AA for instance do we serve as a secy.,chair person,treas.,dcm,alternate dcm,archives and grapevine reps. these are jobs that go vacant in many home groups.


Member: James Lupp
Location: Grateful, Colorado
Date: 29 Aug 1999
Time: 17:44:01

Comments

James, alky,

It's only by the grace of God and the fellowship of Alcoholics Anonymous I am sober today and have a life worth living. Great sharing today. I, too, am grateful that I don't have to spread my disease to those close to me. My gratitude list is endless today. I found my first gratitude list in my Big Book. I made it at three days sober and it had three things on it. 1. Sobriety 2. my truck(which I lived in) 3. my job. I still have the sobriety. I remeber when I first heard someone say they were a "grateful alcoholic", I thought the guy was pretty sick to be grateful for such a thing as being alcoholic. Today I am starting to understand that. I'm grateful to be an alcoholic. My life sucked before I ever drank. I don't believe I would have ever found a life anything like I found through the fellowship and the 12 steps.

Two words I would never have used in the same sentence, "Sober Alcoholic" and today I are one!

The number One spot on my gratitude list today is GOD! My Heavenly Father does for me always what I cannot do for myself. I, too, went to sleep last night. Instead of passed out. I woke up this morning. Instead of coming to. I didn;t have to run to the bathroom first off this morning afraid to burp, afraid to fart, cry at that drunk in the mirror with the always present thought, "What a small price to pay, to be able to drink!" That has been miraculously replaced by "THANK YOU GOD"

Thank you for 12 stepping me today. Your gratitude is contagious! In the Fellowship of the Spirit. James L.


Member: Sara B.
Location: Riverside CA
Date: 29 Aug 1999
Time: 18:07:47

Comments

Hi! My name is Sara and i am a very greatful recovering alcoholic, I just celebrated my 2 year birthday 4 days ago and I couldn't have been happier in all my life. AA has shown me a peace and serenity i never before could have understood. I see the people above me with 30 days on this sight and I am so amazed at this. It took me 2 yrs to figure out that this was even here. I can tell you that it does work. My life has changed so much. I am finally everything i didn't think i was capable of being without some sort of medication. I have everything i could have ever wanted and needed and if it can work for me it can work for anyone. Sa


Member: Angela B.
Location: Rhode Island
Date: 29 Aug 1999
Time: 18:43:23

Comments

Hi- I'm Angela recoverying alcoholic over 2 years. I had a sober date last night and I feel like I just poured miracle grow all over my character defects! I woke up and felt really ungrateful. Then i found this website and guess what? My date was 100% perfect. I STAYED SOBER! Thank God for the countless # of recovering peaople who remind me in so many ways that my worst day sober is better than my best day drunk. I can finish my day with gratitude. now that's a miracle!


Member: LINDA .Y
Location: MONTREAL
Date: 29 Aug 1999
Time: 19:03:31

Comments

HI LINDA ALCOHOLIC I AM VERY GRATEFUL TO BE SOBER AND I HAVE A LIST OF THINGS TO BE GRATEFUL FOR, BUT MOST OF ALL I AM GRATEFUL THAT BECAUSE OF THIS PROGRAM MY DESIRE TO HAVE A DRINK HAS BEEN TAKEN AWAY. I LOOK BACK AT MY LIFE 2YEARS AGO AND I NEVER WANT TO GO BACK THERE . ALL I HAVE TO DO IS USE THE TOOLS THAT ARE OFFERED TO ME AT A.A. AND I WILL BE OK., 2 YEARS AGO MY BOYFRIEND AND I WERE THROWING PLATES, PHONES, EVEN KIVES AT EACHOTHER FIGHTING LIKE CATS AND DOGS. TODAY WE HAVE TRUST AND A LOVING & TRUSTING RELATIONSHIPJUST BECAUSE WE STAY AWAY FROM THAT FIRST DRINK. GRATEFUL??????? "YOU BET I AM "


Member: Susan.B
Location: Maine
Date: 29 Aug 1999
Time: 19:06:42

Comments

Hi my name is Susan and I am an alcoholic. This topic is really a great one for me today. I have a great deal to be thankful for. In 5 days(God willing) I will celebrate 1 year. That for me is a miracle as it is for many others. I am so grateful for the people in the program who loved me when I couldn't love myself, who held me up when I couldn't stand on my own two feet. The life I have today is 2nd to none and there is so much more work and rewards out there for me. When I am aware of being grateful it makes it very difficult for negative thoughts to get any time or space in my head and that is a WONDERFUL thing. Thanks All--Susan.B


Member: Ella
Location: Orlando
Date: 29 Aug 1999
Time: 19:36:21

Comments

Hi, I'm Ella and I'm an alcoholic. I'm learning to be more grateful for all the wonderful things in this world. I try to be thankful for everything-each day. I could go on and on about all the things which mean so much to me. I remember thinking when I was drunk-Why am I doing this when my life is so great? I had a lot but I was not able to see it or enjoy it. I'm a lucky person compared to others. I don't have any physical defects or illness(except Alcoholism). The little things that I have in my life have become very important. I stop more now to look at the sky or feel the warm breeze on my face and say "Thank you God for all of this"

I am living proof of a miracle. I never thought I could stop drinking and here I am sober and very, very happy. I thought drinking was all that could make me happy but I was wrong. I know that there is so much more happiness waiting for me each day I stay sober. AA has helped me so much and I want to say THANK YOU. Take care and thanks for sharing your thoughts everyone.


Member: Denise S
Location: No. Cal.
Date: 29 Aug 1999
Time: 20:37:47

Comments

Denise, here and I'm surely greatful and appreciate the finer things in life today such as peace of mind, family, and spirituality. What ablessing to have a meeting on the net! I'm looking at 5 years and I went to a meeting today and heard a speaker state that if they would have killed her in the first 5 years they would have killed a stranger! SO good news! I can't wait till tomarrow, cause I just keep gettin to be a better person everyday! By the grace of god and you folks, I'm alive! luv ya,Denise


Member: Clare M.
Location: CA
Date: 29 Aug 1999
Time: 20:45:03

Comments

Hi! I'm Clare and I'm an alcoholic. First time at this meeting and love it. I am so greatful for the program of AA which has kept me sober for 19 years. I couldn't have done it without the people in the rooms who have helped me. And I've needed those rooms to have a safe place to go. I still go to 5 or 6 meetings a weeks. And I now have so many wonderful friends. This weekend I went to a Recovery retreat and I am so grateful for the gift of sobriety and the serenity I have most of the time.


Member: Chuck W
Location: Lapeer, Michigan
Date: 29 Aug 1999
Time: 20:55:14

Comments

Hi I'm Chuck and i am an alcoholic and glad to be here. This poast July 26 i was sober 25 years and i am very grateful for the past 25 years a day at a time. Gratitude is something i need to be reminded of sometimes. I ask my higherf power for help every day and thank hime for my sobriety. I don't go to meetings very often any more probably should go more but am very happy sober This is my first online meeting Thanks for bein here


Member: Christa H
Location: USA
Date: 29 Aug 1999
Time: 21:05:08

Comments

Welcome Chuck,

Keep coming back. Those online forums are excellent. The more participants, the better. I am very grateful that this place exists, where people can share their experiences.


Member: Connie H
Location: Ontario,Canada
Date: 29 Aug 1999
Time: 22:40:31

Comments

Hello everyone My name is Connie H. I am an alcoholic. Tonite I celebrated my 3rd birthday at A.A., i feel especially grateful to be sober and alive today. All of my family and friends were there to support me. I realize today that "sobriety" for me is making the choice to live today and enjoy my life. It isn't always easy but it's worth it. I am 20 yeaars old and I have the rest of my life ahead of me..and for that I am grateful. If not for A.A. I would not be here tonite to share this gratitude. Thank you


Member: Ben F.
Location: Oregon
Date: 29 Aug 1999
Time: 23:54:32

Comments

My names Ben and I'm an alcoholic and anaddict.

I've had a pretty low week this week. My sponsor told me to makr a grattitude list so I could see that things were'nt all that bad. It's funny, I go to meetings almost every night and lately they have all been about gratitude. I felt like everybody new exactly what I needed. Then I hop on the internet for the first time to look up some A.A. stuff. I tripped over this website and here you are with the topic of gratitude again.

Well let me tell you, I'm grateful to have found this place. I can't open up in a meeting with a bunch of people in it. I don't know why, I just can't seem to do it. Maybe it's because I see those people every day. Anyway, I'm glad I found this site. I can open up without worrying about all you people looking me in the eye. I wiil be here more often. Thanks


Member: Michael  D.
Location: N.Y.C., N.Y.
Date: 29 Aug 1999
Time: 23:56:21

Comments

hey there-Everybody- My name is Michael D. I'm from nyc Last month I celabrated 9 years ! a day at atime and every time I come or go to a new meeting ,now a days, and Ithink of that fact when time and day counts come up I still can't believe that its me ...... this program is so amazing


Member: Tacey C.
Location: Arizona
Date: 30 Aug 1999
Time: 00:21:03

Comments

Hi. My name is Tacey and I'm an alcoholic. I am grateful for all that God has taken from me, all that He's given me, and all that He's left me with. I did not know what gratitude was when I first got here. It was just a word. I know today that it is a feeling, similar to joy, that is a result of having an intellectual awakening as to what my life is about. Today, my life is about sobriety. It is about trying to do God's will and trying to stay out of self. It is about loving and living and learning. I always tell myself when I start feeling sorry for myself or angry because my life is not the way I want it: "How dare I not be grateful? I have been taken from a Hell called active alcoholism and placed in a safe haven called AA."

What am I grateful for? I am grateful that I hit a bottom that left no room for argument or debate. I am grateful that I was around many oldtimers who didn't worry about making me feel "good" and told me the truth about alcoholism, a disease that manifests itself in me through selfishness, resentment, fear, and pride/ego. I am grateful that I had little trust in humans and put my faith, in the beginning, in the book Alcoholics Anonymous and followed the directions within. I am grateful for all that has happened to me, for me, around me, within me since I finally surrendered to the program and gave it all I had. I am grateful that I still have a yearning for knowledge and a relationship with my God. I am grateful for so much. I have so much to be grateful for. Thanks for letting me shar.


Member: Dawn J
Location: VA
Date: 30 Aug 1999
Time: 01:15:51

Comments

Hi, my name's Dawn and I'm a grateful recovering alcoholic. At the momment, though, I'm not feeling very happy, joyous and free. I had an upset tonight and it was too late to call anyone in the program, so I decided to try the web--ended up here. I've been in AA a few 24 hrs and miraculously, when I get upset, taking a drink rarely crosses my mind (committing murder, maybe.) I've been to enough meetings over the years to know what the answers are; the problem is, when I'm upset, I tend to forget everything I ever learned and need you people to remind me. Gratitude isn't being happy for all the things I have and for what's happening in my life; it's my attitude toward what I have and what's happening. For me that means, no matter what's gong on, that the God of my understanding will never give me more than He and I can't handle.

I once heard a guy in a meeting say that AA was the only place you could go and talk to yourself and other people were polite enough to listen. I don't know how people make it without meetings; sharing always makes me feel better. Besides, I'd miss the hugs.


Member: Tina N.
Location: Warrenton, OR
Date: 30 Aug 1999
Time: 01:20:44

Comments

Hi,Im Tina-alcoholic, I was told just last night by some old timers that I needed to make a gratitude list. I was just introduced to this site and here it is again. GRATITUDE! I guess I should start by being grateful for my life. I know the only reason Im here is my belief in a higher power.I should have been dead long ago. Glad to know this is here. Thanks for my sobriety.


Member: Sheri R.
Location: Tennessee
Date: 30 Aug 1999
Time: 01:46:32

Comments

I loved the comment earlier in this meeting about gratitude rhymning with attitude. It's the "silly" little phrases like that which seem to pop into my head when I need them the most. Here's one for the next time one of you is all stirred up over something...."it's hard to be grumpy and grateful at the same time." That one can really stopped me cold in some of my would be rampages. Also, when I am told to "make a gratitude list," is usually when I REALLY don't want to do it! Sometimes it helps me to start with what I call a "reverse" gratitude list, as in, "It Could Be Worse If..." That almost always turns into gratitude in the end!!!! Thanks for being here.


Member: LIONEL.C
Location: Campbelltown.Australia
Date: 30 Aug 1999
Time: 06:55:18

Comments

G'Day my name is Lionel i'm a grateful alcoholic,and this is a great topic.I was only talking obout graditude today and when I look at my life I have alot to be grateful for and if it was'nt for the unconditional love i've recieved from the members of this fellowship. Also a GOD and a Family who stuck by me through all my insnity ,I believe I would not be here today to be apart of this great meeting.Thinking of you all Lionel


Member: LIONEL.C
Location: Campbelltown.Australia
Date: 30 Aug 1999
Time: 06:56:49

Comments

G'Day my name is Lionel i'm a grateful alcoholic,and this is a great topic.I was only talking obout graditude today and when I look at my life I have alot to be grateful for and if it was'nt for the unconditional love i've recieved from the members of this fellowship. Also a GOD and a Family who stuck by me through all my insnity ,I believe I would not be here today to be apart of this great meeting.Thinking of you all Lionel


Member: Tom
Location: Kansas
Date: 30 Aug 1999
Time: 09:52:43

Comments

Tom, alcoholic. (It has taken me a long time to say that publicly - that was my first time.) I am in my sixth day sober. Hello everyone. Thanks to Bonnie for the topic.

I had a pretty good life the whole time I was drinking, outside the drinking itself, but I drank anyway. The only time I did not drink was when a job or some similar situation required me to abstain. When I was "the boss", I chose to drink. I had been drinking over half my life. As my alcoholic deterioration continued, I kept racking up a long list of embarrassing, reckless, sometimes dangerous episodes to fill my resume. How selfishly I behaved! I was slowly throwing away a great life, day by day, two steps forward, three back. Ella from Orlando made comments that hit home for me and compelled me to write this. Thanks Ella.

I will try to remember to be grateful everyday. Today I am grateful because I am talking and thinking as if six days of sobriety is one hell of a long time. Good luck to all.


Member: Micro  C
Location: Maine
Date: 30 Aug 1999
Time: 09:53:04

Comments

I picked up my red chip today and through my higher power am grateful.


Member: Fred
Location: MD
Date: 30 Aug 1999
Time: 11:26:26

Comments

I'm Fred and I'm and alcoholic. My list starts with thanks to God for allowing me to live through 17 years of out of control drinking, then giving me a new vastly better life sober. I'm grateful to still have my wife and kids who somehow stayed with me. I'm very grateful for physical and spiritual health, and being able to face each new day clean. My worst day sober is far better than my best day drunk. Also, I'm thankful for my fellow alcoholics who share their experience and wisdom here. I learn something every time I visit this site. I'm thankful to God for helping Tom stay sober 6 days, and I'll pray that turns in to a sober lifetime for him, one day at a time. Love and thanks to all, Fred.


Member: GABRIELLE P.
Location: MANSFIELD, TX
Date: 30 Aug 1999
Time: 11:38:08

Comments

Hi Gabrielle P. grateful recovering alcoholic here. Thank you Bonnie for the topic! It was one of the hardest things I had to do, learning to be grateful. I too was told to make a list everyday and I had to find new things everyday to be grateful for. I can remember my sponser asking why I never put things like grateful to be alive, grateful to be an alcoholic, grateful for my higher power. I was just looking at the surface. When I started working the steps I was able to feel the graditude. Then I was able to share the aspects of my drinking that lead me to the insanity of my bottom. It was then I became A grateful recovering alocoholic because I feel free of the burden of alcoholism, I didn't have to hide or lie or cheat anymore and for that I was grateful. I was able to start healing with the love of the fellowship and the by the Grace of my Higher Power whom I choose to call God. I am grateful today for the ability to still put those steps to good use and continue to change things about myself that are revealed to me. I am grateful for the internet and its ability to reach those who maybe have not made it to the rooms of A.A. yet. I am grateful there is a way back for those who have fallen and for those who wait for their return. Take care remember you can't fail until you stop trying! In Sobriety, in A.A., in Life! Gabrielle P.


Member: Rick S.
Location: B.C. NV
Date: 30 Aug 1999
Time: 13:13:37

Comments

I'm Rick and I am still an alcoholic. Over a few 24 hours I have come to understand there is a difference between GRATEFUL and GRATITUDE. Grateful is a feeling and for me it means things are "good enough". During my drinking/using I settled for good enough quite alot. To me if I make a list of what I am grateful for in my life it is to reinforce in my mind that I have all this stuff so I should not be feeling bad. IT IS STILL ALL ABOUT ME! For me that is saying my spirituality is at "good enough" and I try not to do that today. Gratitude is an action, same as this program. You don't FEEL gratitude you SHOW it. Showing gratitude means working with others when they hold out their hand, being of service to the program (helping at meetings), and showing others outside the program that recovery works for everyone who wants it. It is impossible for me to be on a "poor me" gig if I am showing gratitude by helping another. Like a number of other "suggestions" in this program this is intended to get my selfish self centered ass to put someone elses needs before my own. Thanks for reading. Seee Yaaa !!!


Member: Lynn C.
Location: Raleigh, NC
Date: 30 Aug 1999
Time: 14:42:31

Comments

Lynn, grateful alcoholic, here. Making a gratitude list was the first thing my sponsor asked me to do when I called up to whine. By the time I got to the end of the list I was able to experience gratitude. When I feel this way, I have something of value to pass on. The things I am most grateful for everyday are my sobriety, the program and fellowship of AA, the steps and my Higher Power (not in that order). When I do this, it is virtually impossible to have a lousy day. Thanks for the topic Bonnie; it's good to be reminded of the important things.


Member: Stephanie L
Location: Ontario,Canada
Date: 30 Aug 1999
Time: 15:14:58

Comments

Connie H,

I myself will be celebrating 3 years on Sept. 23 of this year. I am 21 years old and it's amazing for me to be able to see other young people like myself come into this program and stay. I would like to wish you a very special happy birthday. I know that it isn't easy. Please feel free to contact me at my email address listed below. I love to meet people my age in the program. I really hope that you get this message. I'll pray for this. I am avery grateful alcoholic. When I came into this program I came here completly hopeless. I used and abused people and I had used up all of my resources. I don't use people today. I'm working the program to the best of my ability. I hated people. I thought the world was out to get me. I had so much anger and hostility that I constantly pushed away. I had no friends. Today I do. I'm still self-centered at times but I changing. I'm certainly not the person I was But thank God I am the person I am today and yet I know that tomorrow I will be a better person. Life has so many beautiful things and now I appreciate them where as before I just didn't care. My daughter is an A.A. baby and I'm so grateful that she doesn't have to see her mother drunk. Thank God for this. I have very many things to be grateful for. It's a miracle that I stayed this long so God knows all of us are. We are all miracles, what a joyous experience, especially that one common bond can bring so many people together. Thank you God and thank you to everyone who has helped me along my journey. If it wasn't for you I'd probably be dead. Thanks for leeting me share.

My e-mail address, IT's long

Liorentas.Stephanie@3353ros.cion.cic.X400.gc.ca

I wish for you all another 24 hours


Member: paul
Location: uk
Date: 30 Aug 1999
Time: 16:15:50

Comments

Thanks to my family, Thanks to my friends, Thanks to my Higher Power, Thanks for the love....


Member: Avril G
Location: Driffield UK
Date: 30 Aug 1999
Time: 16:28:59

Comments

{{{BONNIE}}} Many thanks for starting us off on my favorite topic. A grateful alcoholic will NEVER drink again, I was told in early days, so I just know I will not drink again (Today) The attitude is gratitude today. I am grateful that just 3 weeks ago, I was at my daughters wedding, and sober, and was paraded around by my daughter to be introduced to all the guests who dodn't know me!!! My gratitude is choking me as I write this, and everytime I think about what I have to be grateful for, I just can't help crying!!! I am grateful to have come here tonight to see the same names from last week, still here, still sharing THEIR gratitude, starting another week of their own sobriety!!! PRICELESS!!!

{{CONNIE}} 20 yrs old and already 3 yrs sober!!!! {{STEPHANIE}} 21 yrs old, and already almost 3 yrs sober!!!! God, girls I am so grateful to think that these days AA is doing it for the youngsters, for I could have been (should have been) here when I was in MY 20's, but I didn't get here until I had ruined many more years of my life (and my family's) I feel proud and happy to celebrate the AA birthdays of others in recovery, and to here of their 'AA babies' born in recovery. My 12yr old daughter was only 2yrs old when I got into AA, and can't remember me as a drunken slut. For that I am truly grateful.

I, like {{MICHAEL}} Celebrated 9yrs sobriety last month (July 11th) and I never ever believed I could have done that, but then I DIDN'T ... AA did it, and each and every one of the people I have ever met in this wonderful fellowship has helped to get me, and keep me, sober up until today.

For someone who had to pack up her home in the middle of the night, and drag two kids out, running from a drug dealer who I had upset, is there any wonder I am grateful???

I have so much today in my life, yet when I found this on-line site in March this year, I had just left my husband, and am awaiting my third divorce, but this emotional pain is nothing compared to the absolute hell I lived as a drunk.

Thank you all for reminding me what gratitude is all about, and whilever I maintain an attitude of gratitude, keep it in the day, trust in God and get to meetings, I need never drink again. Not too tall an order for a lifetime of sobriety is it??? Love you all, and thanks again.

Goodie@cwcom.net

ICQ # 47039989


Member: DarrenC
Location: Glasgow Va.
Date: 30 Aug 1999
Time: 17:14:59

Comments

Hello everyone, Darren and I am Alkie I have been keeping a check on this sight for a few evenings now and I am truely grateful that this forum exist, I have been sober for about 2 1/2 yrs now and it has been a great life after I learned the AA way of life. It took me about 6 months to enjoy a gratitude meeting. I use to think what the hell do I have to be gratful for as I was one suffering "Dry" alkie. But after I started to put the step to ise in my life , things suddenly started to get better,I am so grateful for this program and I am really grateful that staying cyber is here for me as I am not able to attend the f2f meetings as often as I need to.


Member: Aline M.
Location: Texas
Date: 30 Aug 1999
Time: 18:08:14

Comments

Hi, I'm Aline, a grateful Alcoholic and addict. I learned to say I'm grateful because although I wouldn't wish this disease on anyone, if that is what it took to get me into the program, then I'm grateful to it for this superior way of life. I also practice an alphabet gratitude meditation when I'm troubled and can't sleep. At first, I could only think of D for donuts, but now, I can even be grateful for positive qualities in people I have resentments towards. Thanks, you guys, for being here for someone who always needs to reach out to feel less isolated. gaubert@earthlink.net


Member: Dale S.
Location: california
Date: 30 Aug 1999
Time: 18:37:15

Comments

Grateful and gratitude these two word have become action words to me sense I have come to AA. Today I feel that it is important to show my gratitude rather than just fell it. I was in a bad way when I came to AA. I had given up all hope of ever regaining what I had lost. AA has given me not only my life back but it has given me a new way to live. It has given me a new and wonderful world. Of course I should give the Higher Power a little credit here but he was always ready to give me what I needed. It was a matter of me taking the action to allow his grace to enter me.

Action seems to be a key word in AA and seems to be of major importance to the Higher Power. The way I show my gratitude to God, the people who helped me, and to AA, is to try to help other alcoholics. I have worked the steps and have five years sobriety. I have sponsored 5 alcoholics. Sometimes I don't feel like I am doing a very good job but I do my best. I am never too busy to work the steps with them. But I don't always answer my phone. In fact I hate running to answer the phone every time it rings. And it rings every ten minutes. It drives me bonkers sometimes I want to rip it out of the wall. I am not grateful for the phone.

Another thing I am grateful for is meeting and I have a home meeting that I like and I try to show up there every week. I am dedicated to that meeting and try to never miss it. People know, if they go to that meeting they will see Dale Strait there. Maybe that is why the attendance is failing. Just kidding


Member: fayla g
Location: galena ks
Date: 30 Aug 1999
Time: 21:01:00

Comments

fayla alcoholic, im grateful for so many things , and Ben i was like you when i first started meetings didnt think id ever be able to open up but the more i went and the longer i sat there the easyer it got , and the promises tell us this . hang around and it will get better and better im kind of talking to myself here to , you see its been well over 3 months since i went to a meeting and i know if i dont get back things are going to turn real bad il have 3 years in oct 13 ,hope i see the light befor i see the darkness again . love and prayers to all fayla g.


Member: Daveb
Location: PA.
Date: 30 Aug 1999
Time: 21:05:15

Comments

Hi I am Dave and I'm an alcoholic. The first time I said this was at this site and Iam greatful that it is getting easier. I am greatful for this site because it has helped me to get to a f2f meeting and fills the void when I am unable to attend. I am greatfull to be sober for more than two months and want to thank the old timers for reinforcing the benefits of the program. It keeps me coming back. Today, I experienced gratitude when I pulled into a gas station. I saw a fellow"club member, who I drank with in the past. I was greatfull to be sober, not hungover, and able to enjoy the day with my kids. I am greatfull to all of you , the program, and especially my higherpower. God, I promise to say that more.


Member: Daveb
Location: PA.
Date: 30 Aug 1999
Time: 21:05:29

Comments

Hi I am Dave and I'm an alcoholic. The first time I said this was at this site and Iam greatful that it is getting easier. I am greatful for this site because it has helped me to get to a f2f meeting and fills the void when I am unable to attend. I am greatfull to be sober for more than two months and want to thank the old timers for reinforcing the benefits of the program. It keeps me coming back. Today, I experienced gratitude when I pulled into a gas station. I saw a fellow"club member, who I drank with in the past. I was greatfull to be sober, not hungover, and able to enjoy the day with my kids. I am greatfull to all of you , the program, and especially my higherpower. God, I promise to say that more.


Member: LINDA B
Location: VA
Date: 30 Aug 1999
Time: 21:23:50

Comments

i'm linda, alcoholic. i have read so many wonderful things, thanks everybody for sharing. i have many things to be grateful for. the relationship i have with my GOD! MY SOBRIETY, a beautiful daughter(she was due on my second aa b-day, what a miracle.)i fact that i know i have a choice today. i can be thankful and do the things i know i should and enjoy a good day OR just to ignore those things and be miserable as hell. life today is no way comparable to the misery i used to live. thanks to aa, i have the best home group in the world....if you don't you aren't at the right one! thanks everybody....take care...hugs for everybody


Member: richard m
Location: sarasota, fla..
Date: 30 Aug 1999
Time: 22:54:58

Comments

thanks for the topic.....my name is richard .i am an alcoholic......my sobrity date is 12/28/85.i am very gratefull to be here and still not drinking the alcohol !!!.i love each of you and hope god continues to give us the strenght to carry on ......your friend and looking forward tothe fellowship.richard m.


Member: robin l
Location: atlanta
Date: 30 Aug 1999
Time: 23:04:01

Comments

Hi I' m ROBIN . My husband has 13 years and here I am drunk! I just got my son up from bed to go to the store. What a great mother I am! Right now I AM DIAGNOSED with OCD, Social Phobia and Anxiety/Depression. How can you win with those odds? Just because my father committed suicide I will have to accept the fact that we are what they produced.. I am sick of feeling sorry for myself,and I want to be strong and I am with my son, but not with myself. Robin


Member: Derek E
Location: Canada, Sask
Date: 30 Aug 1999
Time: 23:17:56

Comments

Hi, my name is Derek and I am an alcoholic. I think it is so simple to stay sober once I got to know how the program works. I'm only 18 years old and I have been through treatment twice. Whenever I have a thought of drinking I think of my last drunk and think of how bad it was. I'm glad I have this disease rather that cancer or any other disease. This disease is easily treatable. Go to meetings, find a spirtual basis of life. Pray to god to take your drinking problem away, each and every day. And get a JOB. I look at this disease in a competive way. I don't like losing, but by losing to this disease, I think I have won...Thank you...If you want you can email me at derek36@hotmail.com thanks once agian


Member: Rick H.
Location: N.J.
Date: 30 Aug 1999
Time: 23:29:02

Comments

After being kicked out of the service for drugs and alcohol and having no more excusses I came into A.A. 18 years ago I met my first wife at my second or third meeting but didnt know she would be my wife at the time we wed tried to have childern and after some awefull experiences(I didnt want th drink but I did want to die)we divorced and she got everything thanks to N.J.divorce laws but I didnt drink and today I'm in a wonderfull marrage to a very beautifull woman who I love very much and we have two childern .If I dont drink I have good and bad days but Im living and loving and I cant do that drunk


Member: robin
Location: atlanta
Date: 30 Aug 1999
Time: 23:32:53

Comments

i am sorry to ruin all the nice gratitude memories! i really enjoyed reading them and i wish i could feel the same. Robin


Member: robin
Location: atlanta
Date: 30 Aug 1999
Time: 23:33:44

Comments

i am sorry to ruin all the nice gratitude memories! i really enjoyed reading them and i wish i could feel the same. Robin


Member: tim
Location: calif
Date: 31 Aug 1999
Time: 01:02:15

Comments

Sober 15 years and only 43! Man, like rideing my Harley, scuba diving at night in Laguna,Ca. Biking, surfing, workin out and owning my own buisiness---Yeah I used to sleep in dumpsters, but hey I only had one way to go...Straight Up. Quit your bitchin, your sober ain't ya? Tim


Member: Robin M.
Location: H.B.,Ca.
Date: 31 Aug 1999
Time: 04:32:04

Comments

Robin...I'm Robin too.If I can stay sober so can you. Go to a meeting! Gotta go to Japan. Call someone NOW.


Member: Jack B.
Location: Cumbola , Pa
Date: 31 Aug 1999
Time: 05:17:06

Comments

Hi, I'M Jack and I am an alcoholic. When I think of gratitude the first thing that comes to my mind is what my sponsor, since deceased after 46 years of sobriety used to tell me.Humility will get me sober and gratitude will keep me sober.

Every day when I wake up, I thank God for the breath I take and ask him for another day of sobriety.

If I am honest with myself, my gratitude list should extend from here to the west coast and back again, but it doesn't.I am a human being there are times I think I deserve this, but in reality I haven't done anything to deserve what God has given to me thru sobriety.Grateful early on in recovery would have meant I had achieved being CEO of IBM, having the finest house on the hill, and driving the finest car.

When I look at gratitude today it means understanding what the old timers once told me.The greatest things in life aren't things.God willing the 23rd of November of this year will be twelve years of staying sober one day at a time, and that is an undeserved, unwarranted blessing. Having the obsession to drink lifted by God's grace is simply a miracle in this alcoholics life.Having my self esteemed restored to me by this fabulous fellowship and the twelve step program of Alcoholics Anonymous.Able to accept and return the unconditional love that was given to me the first day I set foot in an AA meeting and receieve still to this day is just overwhelming for this alcoholic to understand.Being able to walk up to my mother and embrace her as she was dying and tell her mom I love you was directly attributable to you wonderful peeople in this fellowship.

If my life doesn't work out from this moment on,no regrets, no qualms, and no looking back, I have been blessed and for that I will be eternally grateful.


Member: Maria H
Location: London, UK
Date: 31 Aug 1999
Time: 09:22:13

Comments

Hi, I'm Maria & I'm an alcoholic. 1st time at this site & I plan to keep coming back. What a terrific idea and a whole new way to carry the message to even more would-be AA's. I hope this site helps someone become a wanna'be AA today.

Gratitude is a great discussion topic and can give me all those warm happy safe feelings - but it works best for me when I 'Walk the Walk' & YOU show me how. For that I am truly grateful.

I am grateful that the God of my understanding gave me my opportunity to become a member of the society of the second chancers. And it has been my experience, that he didn't save me from the shipwreck to kick me to death on the beach!

I am gateful that my Higher Power knows what's good for me & in recovery puts it slap bang in front of me. Yes, left to my own devices, I can still be quite hopeless.

I am grateful that thru YOU, I now understand that its not that drinking made me the way I was - it's the I was that lead to my drinking. And that through working the steps, this can change if I am honest, open & willing.

I am grateful, that this program works 100% on a daily basis, in spite of me - all I have to do is show up & listen! Great deal!!

Thanks for being here & for letting me share.


Member: Patt
Location: Oregon
Date: 31 Aug 1999
Time: 12:47:19

Comments

Good morning, all. Patt, grateful, recovering alcoholic. Thank you for the topic, Bonnie. I must keep in an attitude of gratitude--don't always because my selfishness quite often gets in the way, and the clutter of my mind pushes it back into a corner. However, when I have the good fortune of God's grace in giving me another alcoholic to work with, and I have the wonderful give and take in that communication, it fills my heart. My sponsor (who has 25 yrs. of sobriety and wisdom and is now in dreadful health) says 1)"Gratitude" is an action word, and 2)when she gets to feeling sorry for herself she "does her gratefuls" and that gets her back on course. And you know, by golly, it works for me, too.

A few 24 hours ago I would have put material things on my grateful list, and some are still there; today, it is the love of the Spirit for me and me for the Spirit--the LOVE that I have in my life--for which I am most grateful. To be able to walk, not stagger, through a day. To have bad moments, but not bad days. To be able to see and accept those I encounter without judgmentalism (most of the time--I ain't perfect). What a blessing!!

Happy birthday to those of you who are celebrating completions of years, months, days, hours of sobriety. Welcome to those who are new to it. Please keep coming back and replenishing your energy here and at face to face meetings--there's nothing like the hugs and expressions of support and love in the personal interaction. Thank you to those who maintain this site for us--I'm delighted to be able to be a part of it. Thanks, all, for 12 stepping me today. The more meetings I go to the more sobriety major medical insurance I get.

"Trust God, clean house, help others." Patt


Member: Lisa LC
Location: Ventura County, CA.
Date: 31 Aug 1999
Time: 13:58:13

Comments

Hi, my name is Lisa LC and I'm an alcholic and an addict-

First I would like to say Happy Birthday to those of you celebrating and Welcome to the newcommers newer than me.

Another great topic: "Grateful" is a good choice it keeps us in a better place and allows us to see the positive and god willing, keep us sober one more day.

My sponser had me make a "Grateful" List consisting of 3 things I am grateful for, everyday when I was new. Then I read them to her. It really does work, It allows you to stay in a positive and not in the negative. I really liked it. Sometimes it was hard to think of, and it had to be entirely different each time. I guess I should continue this, especially If I have a hard day. I am so grateful for this program. I am enjoying being able to think clearly, being a better parent, feeling good, being connected to my AA friends, having good relationships, being consistent, this list really can go on and on and only by the grace of God and this wonderful program called "Alcholics Annoyomous" and of course all you out there who hear me share and when you share too. Thanks for helping me stay happy and sober one more day and allowing me to share. And please, keep comming back, I promise it really "WORKS" if YOU Work it and really WANT to stay sober. Make it a great day. Lisa LC / LCRMOMX3@cs.com


Member: Gaby
Location: MT
Date: 31 Aug 1999
Time: 14:37:03

Comments

Hi, I'm Gaby and I am an aloholic. Not a sober one either. after another binge last oane I have finally come to the conclusion that I need help. I am not sure if I can go to a meeting in person, because to me that would be a sign of weakness. I am grateful that I have found this site. Maybe with luck and your help I also can become a sober aloholic. Some of you posted your ICQ #. I hope that was an invitation to contact you. With my first glimpse of hope for a very long time, I am grateful to all of you who have commented here.


Member: Em
Location: New York
Date: 31 Aug 1999
Time: 14:42:13

Comments

This is my first time posting here. My name is Em and I'm an alcoholic.

Lots of people here have mentioned gratitude lists. They definitely work! The hardest part is getting started. When I'm feeling depressed, I think about making a gratitude list and I am reluctant to do it. I wonder why, when I am feeling bad, I do not want to feel good. Maybe I'm afraid of feeling bad later (as in, 'I'm down, I might as well stay down.') I think, though, that mostly I want someone (or something, like alcohol) to come and save me.

We are complicated people, but I see the program working for me because the 12 Steps and the other tools (like gratitude lists) are simple.

The most important thing I can say on this topic is: I am grateful for my sobriety.

Thank you for letting me share.


Member: Tom A. 7/25/60
Location: Carlisle, AR
Date: 31 Aug 1999
Time: 15:15:19

Comments

Good Afternoon to all who come to Staying Cybers Discussion meeting. My name is Tom A. and I am a JOY filled alcoholic today by the grace of a worderful Higher Power and this grateful fellowship known as Alcoholic's Anonymous.

Thank you Bonnie out there in PA for this week's topic it has given all of some powerful suggestions for staying sober. I simply share one simple suggestion that reminds me to be grateful and that has to do with the checks I write. I'm not sure how long I have been doing this, but beneath my signature on the check I write Thank You! So, hardly a day goes by that I'm not reminded about being grateful. There were two things I did not have in my drinking days one was a telephone and the other was a checkbook and today I have both. For that I am very grateful.

Thank you all for being here.

Enjoy Your Sobriety Today!

God Bless - Tom A. ate@gte.net


Member: Mike M.
Location:
Date: 31 Aug 1999
Time: 15:19:53

Comments

I wrote out a fourth step list of resentments and showed it to my sponsor, and he said, do the rest of what it says in the Big Book. All about "when were we selfish or dishonest". That's fine, I had a girlfriend late in my drinking who I hurt by being an insensitive jerk. But I can't think of that many other things to write about. Noone in this meeting knows be but if you talked to people who knew me they'd say the same thing.

I haven't been intoxicated since 1995. The only time in all that time I had a drink was about six months ago, when I had half a beer and stopped, and haven't touch a drink again. It was pretty stupid for me to 'test the water' like that, but then again in the big book it says that if you're not sure you're an alcoholic maybe you should try some controlled drinking. But though it might sound strange it helped my resolve not to drink, because I understand that if i tried it again it would just be a slippery slope and sooner or later i'd get drunk.


Member: Melissia A.
Location: MA
Date: 31 Aug 1999
Time: 16:25:06

Comments

I'm an alcoholic named Melissia. I have a lot to be grateful for like the rest of you. Right now I am grateful for AA being online, a sober mind and body, and the life I have chosen as a result of not drinking one day at a time. Sept 13th I will celebrate 10 yrs of sobriety! I am 31 yrs old, have 2 wonderful children, a sober and supportive husband, and a new baby on the way (she's due Jan 1, 2000)! For all of these "things" I am grateful, but my real treasures are the things I can't touch or really see, my decision making process, my maturity or lack of, faith in GOD, my love for myself and others, my integrity, and the list goes on. I call ALL of these (including my material gifts) my glitter! It may be different than others, and sometimes it may seem that others have more, but all it takes is a change in perspective and then my glitter just shines shines shines! Tahnk you for letting me share!


Member: Don N
Location: Clear Lake, Iowa
Date: 31 Aug 1999
Time: 16:40:41

Comments

Hi, my name is Don an I'm an alcoholic. Havnt been here for a long time but have been attending my home group on a regular basis. Gratitude is a great topic. Not all of us make it here. Ive lost some very good friends because of alcohol. I wonder sometimes why GOD choose me to get sober. For that I am very grateful. Robin, call someone. I know you know someone because you said your husband has been sober 13 years. God Bless


Member: Richard R.
Location: New York
Date: 31 Aug 1999
Time: 18:24:30

Comments


Member: Richard R.
Location: New York
Date: 31 Aug 1999
Time: 18:27:05

Comments

Hello everyone; My name is Richard and I'm a greatful recovering alcoholic. I have been in the fellowship since 7/14/86. As you can see that I have celebrated my 13th anniversary just a month ago.


Member: Derek E
Location: Canada, Sask
Date: 31 Aug 1999
Time: 19:13:43

Comments

I'm Derek, I'm an alcoholic. I'm sorry but this has nothing to do with the topic, but a nice girl emailed me. It made me feel like I'm not the only young person in this world trying to stay sobre. Anyways, she gave me a invalid email address. If that girl could please email me again I would be so happy. derek36@hotmail.com I tried to email her so many times.


Member: Derek E
Location: Canada, Sask
Date: 31 Aug 1999
Time: 19:14:02

Comments

I'm Derek, I'm an alcoholic. I'm sorry but this has nothing to do with the topic, but a nice girl emailed me. It made me feel like I'm not the only young person in this world trying to stay sobre. Anyways, she gave me a invalid email address. If that girl could please email me again I would be so happy. derek36@hotmail.com I tried to email her so many times.


Member: Derek E
Location: Canada, Sask
Date: 31 Aug 1999
Time: 19:14:21

Comments

I'm Derek, I'm an alcoholic. I'm sorry but this has nothing to do with the topic, but a nice girl emailed me. It made me feel like I'm not the only young person in this world trying to stay sobre. Anyways, she gave me a invalid email address. If that girl could please email me again I would be so happy. derek36@hotmail.com I tried to email her so many times.


Member: JACK S 
Location: nova scotia  canada
Date: 31 Aug 1999
Time: 19:25:11

Comments

Been sober 18 years..not a day goes by-no matter how bad..that I do not have gtatude to AA and its members..for peace of mind..for AA friends ..no desire to die but no fear of death...Thanks for the sharing..Good luck to the newcomers ....ONE DAY AT A TIME


Member: ,,,
Location:
Date: 31 Aug 1999
Time: 21:27:28

Comments


Member: tony g
Location: ma
Date: 01 Sep 1999
Time: 00:28:26

Comments

tony,alcoholic...every night i give thanks for what i have and what i don't have.my gratitude runs deep and plentifull.thanks to you people and aa and the all mighty. spirituality is heaven on earth.thanks to all and go to a meeting.


Member: Bruce G
Location: Memphis
Date: 01 Sep 1999
Time: 01:13:15

Comments

Lo'friends, IB Bruce,alcoholic. I have a world of blessings to be grateful for, too! Trouble is, old "self" pops up on a regular basis (daily), and true gratitude is not possible until I "get right" and remember where I came from, and what suffering I was delivered from. My hope is to develop, through right actions, a spirit of gratitude that becomes a part of who I am, that I may carry it forth in life and hopefully become a testament to God's love... his presence and power in my life, and my faith in Him....I'm working on it!


Member: Tamara M.
Location: AZ
Date: 01 Sep 1999
Time: 10:35:21

Comments

Hi, I'm Tamara, a recovering addict who recently relapsed after 41/2 years in recovery. I'm trying to let go of the anger (towards myself) and be grateful for the good things I have. I'm at the bottom of the ladder looking up again. I live in a very rural area and these "meetings" are a good way for me to stay in touch on a daily basis.


Member: Graeme.B.
Location: Jersey Channel Islands
Date: 01 Sep 1999
Time: 11:55:48

Comments

Hi all. I'm Graeme and I'm an Alcoholic and a very grateful one at that. Thanks to AA and all of you who have kept me sober one day at a time for nearly eight years now. The meetings to me are my insurance policy against taking that first drink, for I know if I hang around the rooms and attempt as best I can to do the suggested steps to the best of my ability, I will stay with the winners. Eight years sounds great but as you all know I'm only one drink from a drunk. My life today is immeasurible in quality and love compared to that when I was practicing. To Robin and all those trying their level best to stay sober "Hang on in with the winners, a day at a time and you'll make it", if I can so can you. Gratitude is very high on my list today for without AA I would not be able to carry the message as it was passed on to me. Have a great sober day all of you God Bless. Graeme. Robin if you wish to contact me try graeme.blomps@virgin.net


Member: Paul Q
Location: Toronto
Date: 01 Sep 1999
Time: 13:34:35

Comments

Objective Spiritual Experience page 569

HOW the path (1st 164 pages) not meetings.........

Contract between you and GOD

Drop the contempt!

Very Greatful for just today...... :o) pvq@canadianmail.com


Member: RYAN H
Location: DELAWARE
Date: 01 Sep 1999
Time: 13:46:08

Comments

HI EVERYONE. RYAN HERE. I AM GRATEFUL FOR MANY THINGS IN MY LIFE. THE MAIN THING THAT I AM GRATEFUL FOR IS THAT I AM HERE TODAY ALIVE AND WELL ALONG WITH MY FAMILY. ANOTHER THING THAT I AM GRATEFUL FOR IS THAT MY FAMILY HAS STUCK BY ME THROUGH ALL THE THINGS THAT I HAVE GONE THROUGH WITHIN THE PAST YEAR. LIFE CAN END IN A SPLIT SECOND AND AS TIME GOES ON DAY BY DAY I REALIZE THIS MORE AND MORE THAT IS PROBABLY WHY I TAKE LIFE ONE DAY AT A TIME. THANKS AGAIN FOR LISTENING.


Member: Jami H
Location: Whitney, Texas
Date: 01 Sep 1999
Time: 16:56:16

Comments

Hi I'm Jami a very grateful recovering alcoholic. I truly love this topic. It's always appropriate. Seems like I was never gratful when I was drinking. Now, if I'm having problems being grateful for something, that always gets me going. It took me 10 yrs in and out before I got serious about sobriety. I'm 28 with 2 1/2 yrs sober and very happy today. I achieved this with the love and support of the people in the program of AA. I now have my family back. Always a challenge to live in a house with 2 drunks, but we do it. I can't speak for my husband, but for me I found honest and real people. My gratitude lies with my higher power who has done for me what I couldn't do for myself. I love ya'll and this program. It has given me what I never had before. Peace. e-mail jamihewitt5@hotmail.com


Member: Buster K
Location: London U K
Date: 01 Sep 1999
Time: 17:30:34

Comments

Hi Buster K here, Im still not sure how this works,the last letter posted was 28/08/99.Dont know whether to add to last weeks or start a new topic! I would like thank everyone for last weeks sharing,especially Avril G. You made me feel welcome, it was just like having my hand shaked something i try to but am guilty of not doing sometimes when a newcomer or stranger from another group graces our meeting. The good news is i am getting married on Friday 03/09/99.I know it is not about my drinking but I would like to share it with you,she is a wonderful lady and it would not be happening if I was Drinking. Hope you all have a nice week.


Member: Buster K
Location: London
Date: 01 Sep 1999
Time: 17:48:28

Comments

Buster K here again sorry for submitting twice.I just figured it out I was reading last weeks off line. I think what I shared was close to your topic Bonnie,this is one very grateful alky,thank you all for sharing


Member: Buster K
Location: London UK
Date: 01 Sep 1999
Time: 17:48:53

Comments

Buster K here again sorry for submitting twice.I just figured it out I was reading last weeks off line. I think what I shared was close to your topic Bonnie,this is one very grateful alky,thank you all for sharing


Member: Joanna
Location: NorthWest
Date: 01 Sep 1999
Time: 18:09:31

Comments

Joanna-Member of AA- I am very grateful to be clean and sober for over 3 years. I never thought about being happy for what I had, prior to AA. In a few hours I am going to a meeting to tell my story a bit nervous and scared(as usual) yet, afer reading the posts I am reminded that the attitude of gratitude is the answer. I am so gratefull that today when I look in the mirror I actually like who I see. What a change. I lived in a make believe world that if I consumed the "perfect" amount of drugs and alcohol that I would magiclly be transformed into the person I always wanted to be.I had no idea that I was trying to kill that person everytime I took a drink. For anyone out their that is hurting today, or that is new to this, it will be o.k. we all had to be newly sober and we all were scared but you can do it. Go to a "live" meeting reach out and ask for help. I am gratefull I only have to worry about today, for at one day at a time I can turn my will and life over, forever is to long to think about, just for today, I can do that. By nature it is hard for me to be gratefull but I practice, being of service to others and to AA, always remembering my misery will be graciously returned if I pick up a drink. Sober today, By the Grace! much love Joanna, thank you for letting me share.


Member: Rick S.
Location: B.C. NV
Date: 01 Sep 1999
Time: 22:05:19

Comments

I am Rick and I am still an alcoholic. Gaby if you are seeking AA it is not a sign of weakness it is a sign of good jugment. I know this from experience, my whole life was about not showing any sign of weakness. You do not get sober by LUCK, you have to want it and work for it. If you are ready TO GO TO ANY LENGHTS TO STAY SOBER you might make it. Drop me a line if you want to talk: dsixberry@aol.com


Member: Eileen H.
Location: NYC
Date: 02 Sep 1999
Time: 00:31:24

Comments

Hello. Eileen, alcoholic. Congrats to all on their sobriety . . . 24 hours is an eternity when you first come in here. Any longer than that . . . you're a miracle :))

Thank you Rick S from B.C. NV and to Dale S in California. I was looking for a way to express how I feel gratitude . . . and there you did it for me!! It's ACTION.

I'm grateful that I'm Secretary at my Home Group #1, and upcoming Chairperson at Home Group #2 when the commitment turns at the end of the month. I'm grateful that I've had the opportunity to help someone in my group with information from the computer (as they all don't have one) and were looking for an apartment. I'm grateful to help set up a meeting room when I'm early or to help clean up when the meetings are over.

I'm grateful for all the members who have shared their phone numbers with me so I've had someone to call in my time of need. I'm grateful to have a phone.

Meeting makers Make It. I'm grateful to all those in AA before me who have made sure we have the benefit of so many slogans!!

I am grateful for face to face meetings. Without them I would not have been able to stay sober . . . One Day At A Time . . . since April 9, 1999.

I'm grateful that I have been able to help others who have called me . . .to not pick up that drink . . . this is a "WE" program. WE together make it happen. "I" . . alone cannot make it.

So when they talk about a "hereafter" in f2f meetings I am grateful I was there to hear this: "What are you 'here' for and what are you 'after'?" MY SOBRIETY!!

Thanks for letting me share. EileenTH@aol.com


Member: Loreena R.
Location: Cut Knife, Sk. Canada
Date: 02 Sep 1999
Time: 00:43:53

Comments

Hi my name is Loreena and I am an alcoholic. First off - Tamara hold your head high and be proud that you are back on the right track again. You fell down now get up and move on but don't forget.... This is my 1st time of being on here and it is neat. I come from a very small town that did not have meetings. I came out of a 21 day recovery program 6 months ago, didn't go to one meeting, didn't know this was here so I started meeting in my town. We now have 7 people show up and are thankful that the meeting are there. I am mostly thankful for my 2 children and husband. Everyday I see myself putting more energy into my children and am grateful for that because when I was drinking that was my #1 concern (how not to have to deal with my boys). My husband (actually boyfriend) has stood by me though so much bull shit due to drinking. I can truly say I HATE my past don't even like thinking about it and am SO GRATEFUL for my sobriety today. It hasn't been long but I think this taking one day at a time is working. If something is working don't change it - right? Thank you for you input everyone - it still amazes me at how pupped I feel after going to our meeting or now read here. Have a good evening.


Member: Karen S.
Location: NYS
Date: 02 Sep 1999
Time: 01:21:14

Comments

Hi! my name is Karen & I'm an alcoholic. Gratitude is a great subject. I am grateful for our fellowship for helping me find a God of my understandng. I am truely grateful for those of you that can love me in spite of myself. I'm grateful for the baby steps that you all have encouraged me to take! I'm grateful that you can allow me to be human & understand that mistakes will be made. I could go on&on because this fellowship & my Higher Power have shown me a wonderful new way of living in this not-so-perfect world. This is my first time on line with AA. Thank-you for the opportunity to share. Yours in the spirit of AA. Karen S.


Member: Bill W
Location: Boise
Date: 02 Sep 1999
Time: 01:57:46

Comments

Hi. My name is Bill and I'm an alcoholic. For over 16yrs now I've known where my car was, how much money I've had in my pocket and where I was last night. I hear a lot of high minded discussions in meetings sometimes, full of much philosopical wisdom.. and I've been around long enough to sometimes forget why I went to AA in the first place. But topics like this bring it back. My life used to be shattered and I didn't want to go on. Now, I'm living life on life's terms and walking through it with my Higher Power. By the grace of God and through the Fellowship of AA I'm alive and sober and I know where I was yesterday. That's a really neat deal.


Member: Aaron J.
Location: Omaha Ne.
Date: 02 Sep 1999
Time: 03:05:48

Comments

Aaron alcoholic I am grateful for the fact that in my life time I have the opportunity to NEVER TORCHER MYSELF OR MY FRIENDS AND FAMILY AGAIN! I am grateful for the fact that I never have too pick up a drink again. The key in that sentences is that eventhough I never have to drink again there is always the possiblity that I might. I personally am a strange duck! I have this amazing ability to forget "the hopelessness of a day, a week, or a month ago". When I stop taking steps and practicing principles in my everyday life my disease flexs it's muscles and says "I gotta ya this time!" So far I haven't found it necessary to pick up that first drink, but it is always there waiting for me. I have always got another drunk left in me I may not have another sobriety! Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to share.


Member: MaryAnne W.
Location: New York
Date: 02 Sep 1999
Time: 10:39:10

Comments

Hi my name is MaryAnne and I am a grateful alcoholic! I will be coming up on my 7th birthday. Lucky 7!! I keep gratitude in my atitude every day. I am blessed that I have a program to work. It is true it works if you work it. God bless everyone in and out of the program!


Member: Steve D
Location: NJ
Date: 02 Sep 1999
Time: 12:16:43

Comments

Good afternoon.. I'm Steve D from NJ. I used to write here a while ago. I had left the program and have had a series of slips with a major one occuring this past Saturday. I have hit my bottom again. And I need help from the program. I am grateful for AA especially knowing that if I want it to work and if I work it, the program will work. I want it again. I need to find someone local who can help me.

Thanks for being here.


Member: Gabrielle P.
Location: Mansfield, TX
Date: 02 Sep 1999
Time: 14:22:07

Comments

Gabrielle , Grateful, recovering, alcoholic here. Just so you know the meaning of gratitude according to webster's is : the quality or feeling of being grateful or thankful, thankfullness.

I am grateful today for the program of A.A. and for the members within whom have taught me through example how to live. I merely survived before I came to the program. I have a freedom today to be myself and not have to worry if you will accept me or not. In this program everyone is accepted and guided if they desire it. There is no wrong way to work the program. I remember the first time I worked the steps, I would erase and start over and finally my sponser told me,"we'll catch that next time." That was when I really got an idea of what the program was about, it is a way to live.It is not worked once and forgotten, don't think about not drinking for the rest of your life, think about not drinking today. I made a simple statement to myself and included it in my morning prayers when I was well enough to do that, It was I will not drink today for any person, place or thing in life that I can't accept." It worked for me. I need to hear from the newcomers they remind me that it is still the same out there, they give me a chance to give back what was given to me, they open my eyes to things I may not have known. Thank you for being here for me. I AM FILLED WITH GRATITUDE FOR THIS PROGRAM AND EVERYTHING IT GIVES ME. In Sobriety, In A.A. In Life! Gabrielle P.


Member: Nande N
Location: New York
Date: 02 Sep 1999
Time: 17:27:07

Comments

Ahhh gratitude. Didn't know what this was till I entered AA. Didn't know what a choice was either. Heh, as I reflect back on this today, 8yrs. later. I am so grateful for Dr. Bob and Bill W. being the alcoholics they were. Fighting within themselves to be set free from that poison that controls our minds and bodies. What role models for us to hold strong in our hearts. Yes, I have learned gratitude minute to minute, hour to hour and today; day to day.


Member: Ryan H.                                               
Location: Delaware
Date: 02 Sep 1999
Time: 18:14:48

Comments

I am so grateful for feeling like I have my life back once again, it feels so good to wake up in the morning and look forward to the rest of the day. Thanks alot to this organization for helping people the way that they do.


Member: SuzyQ
Location: NJ
Date: 02 Sep 1999
Time: 22:01:33

Comments

Suzy here, alcoholic. I'm grateful that today I turned 35 and I am sober. Next week I will have been sober for four months. I'm sure gratful for those meetings! Thank you all for being here.


Member: Judy M.
Location: Arizona
Date: 03 Sep 1999
Time: 00:53:38

Comments

Hi, I'm Judy and I'm an alcoholic. My partner reading this 'meeting' with me is grateful to be grateful. I can say 'Amen' to that thought. It's wonderful to be able to read all this for which I am grateful. Yes. Daily my awareness increases. No alcohol to fuddle my thinking. Thanks, Bill and Bob and the higher power that nourishes me.


Member: Jaye S.
Location:
Date: 03 Sep 1999
Time: 02:22:02

Comments

I am Jaye, and I am an alcoholic. I am not sure how this happened. I began drinking in March this year, and I kept going and going and going... I've gained 15 pounds, I don't eat, and my life revolves around beer. I HATE this beer. How do I get off this frightening ride? I am reading about everyone who is sober, but...please. Please, how do I stop? How can I be sober?


Member: Jaye S.
Location:
Date: 03 Sep 1999
Time: 02:22:43

Comments

I am Jaye, and I am an alcoholic. I am not sure how this happened. I began drinking in March this year, and I kept going and going and going... I've gained 15 pounds, I don't eat, and my life revolves around beer. I HATE this beer. How do I get off this frightening ride? I am reading about everyone who is sober, but...please. Please, how do I stop? How can I be sober?


Member: J S.
Location:
Date: 03 Sep 1999
Time: 02:26:16

Comments

Help me.


Member: Carlton L
Location: MN
Date: 03 Sep 1999
Time: 02:43:59

Comments

Gratitude is somthig that I need to remember. I have struggled of late with this topic. When I let it out of my mind I get into trouble. You never can let your gratitude for the "gift " of the program out of your sight. Be graetfull that today you are sober. Tomorrow is a new day with new challanges.Thaks for listening


Member: Cole W
Location: Hays KS
Date: 03 Sep 1999
Time: 03:00:09

Comments

Hi, I'm Cole and I'm an alcoholic-addict. I was feeling pretty down tonight as well as all week 'cause I'd been digging deeper & deeper in that hole, but now I've been clean & sober two days. I'm grateful, sooo grateful, that I will wake up sober and that I don't have to worry about looking cranked out tomorrow. I'm grateful I found this page and all of you when I desperately needed it.

Jaye, I think you need to get your tail to an AA meeting with real live people. It was scary the first time I did it, but I look forward to tommorow night's meeting like you wouldn't believe. It's not as scary as staying locked up in the prison you're in now.

I found people who cared about me, who had been where I am. They knew that they had a problem besides alcohol - they didn't know how to live. Those people and AA will teach you to do that. :) I'm grateful for those people, I have a lot to be grateful for. So do you, you just maybe can't see it.

Find a meeting (AA is in the phone book) and *GO* Jaye, it can save your life.


Member: Graeme B
Location: Jersey CI
Date: 03 Sep 1999
Time: 10:09:23

Comments

Jaye, the most important thing for you to do is get to a meeting and listen sincerely to those already in the rooms. Get plenty of phone numbers so that you can pick up the phone and talk rather than picking up that first drink, you know the one that always gets you drunk. It worked for me several years ago, and i still go to the meetings on a regular basis and talk and share face to face. The meetings are my insurance policy against that first drink. Do it Jaye for yourself, this Ilness, and that is what it is can be cured by words alone. Go for it, its your life. Make this the first sober day for the rest of your sober life. E-mail me if you wish. graeme.blomps@virgin.net . Take care, and please for yourself get to the meetings, and you will end up with more gratitude than you ever dreamed of. Graeme.


Member: Patt
Location: Oregon
Date: 03 Sep 1999
Time: 11:40:11

Comments

Good morning, all, grateful, recovering alcoholic Patt here.

As I was dozing off last night, and "doing my gratefuls," this poem began to construct itself in my head. It's an ancient theme, but it expresses my feelings of gratitude:

THE GIFT

How could I have known When we were all so young, That I would build a wall of stone As time went on, to keep you out. I did, and sealed the chinks. I left no windows for the light. All this without my conscious mind, And when I found myself walled in I knew I must get out, and Battered at that wall. I scratched and clawed to no avail, I cried, “There is no hope for me.” Then, suddenly, I took one step aside And found a door. A lock was there, and Looking at my open palm There lay a glittering key. The key fit in the lock, The door swung wide, And out I stepped into the sun. ***

Blessings on you all today; may we all have another 24 hours of sobriety. Patt


Member: Roy S.
Location:
Date: 03 Sep 1999
Time: 15:19:09

Comments

Gratitude was difficult at first, because I was trying to adjust to this new and strange lifestyle. However, as I began to see the benefits of my sobriety, the gratitude began to come. Now, I could not imagine going back to the way it was. Thanks for letting me share.


Member: Marie W
Location: USA
Date: 03 Sep 1999
Time: 16:21:14

Comments

Hi, greatful alcoholic Marie here. Great topic! I have been sober several months now and thanks to my higher power the desire to drink has been lifted. Recently, I have begun to enjoy the simple things in life, beautiful sunrises and sunsets right in my very own yard, the smile on my husbands face. I am grateful that although life may not be easy, at least I can handle some pretty tough days without a drink. My advise to others who are trying to quit is to keep coming, if you can't get to a meeting then try this online meeting. It works, look at all the success stories here today. I wish I could help some more of my family members, especially the dry drunks who still neet to be mean to others. Keep coming back it works!


Member: John M.
Location: London UK
Date: 03 Sep 1999
Time: 17:53:18

Comments

My name is john and I am an alcoholic. I am grateful to Jaye for reminding me of the nature of my disease. Thank you Jaye. The advice that I can give you is that the only thing which has enabled me to stop drinking beer all the time is other (sober) alcoholics. Go to an AA meeting, a live one, and ask for help. That's what I did and I haven't drunk any beer for a few years now.

I am also grateful that I enjoy AA meetings, live ones where I meet other members and share in service and recovery. I am grateful that I have not yet been tempted to try it on my own or on the internet or any other way. This is a "We-" program not an "I-" program and that's how it works for me. Finally I am grateful that the solution to my problems is other people because that has brought me back to my fellow man.

Thank you.


Member: Ed H
Location: IL
Date: 03 Sep 1999
Time: 21:19:28

Comments

M name is Ed. I am an alcoholic. I am not new to the program. To some I am an "old timer" I have gone through some rough times since being in the felloeship. However,God has safely guided me through them. I did not drink,or use any form of "get-High". These last four months have been especially difficult for me . I had to bury 2 sons. Each of them was killed in an auto accident. Darryl (36) was killed 4/29/99 . One week later I am diagnosed w/bone cancer. This Diagnosis has since been changed to Paget's Disease. Last week my Son Ed was killed in an auto accident-the car exploded!! I had to go to mont. AL to bury him,and return that same week_Thur_ for postrate surgery. My only recourse has been to rely on God.for strength and sobriety. I know AA works. I have been sober for27 yrs. Yet in times like these,I know I must call upon God. Make meetings,talk with sponsor,practice the principles of AA.i.e.apply the steps,use the serenity prayer. Pray for each day of sobriety and thank God each night for his grace & love in granting me another day sober in spite of it's negative input. I know it is only by His grace that I am sober. I Will continue to thank Him by making meetings & sharing what God has given me for these 27yrs. I miss my sons very much. I've not stop mourning their loss;however,I am secure in the knowledge that God is in control. He dosen't make errors. Therefore,I shall praise Him and Thank always. I don't fully understand why these two young men were taken for usI only know that i will trust God and accept whatever He has for me. My life is replete with His many blessings. Thus,I keep making meetings. I remain sober. Thank you Ed H. have been especially difficult. I lost two sons!


Member: Michael B.
Location: Arizona
Date: 03 Sep 1999
Time: 21:29:52

Comments

Hi! My name is Michael, and I am a recovering alcoholic, sober today only by the grace of God and the Fellowship. Welcome to the newcomers! Feeling and maintaining a sense of grateful has been especially challenging for me, perhaps the most challenging development of my sobriety.

Because I have some serious physical problems, I have tended to let them get in the way of my gratitude. And I think what's made my problem with gratitude much worse are some feelings of resentment I have against God for getting me sober at the same time I became subject to another serious physical illness. The good news for me is that a feeling of gratitude appears more often these days than it did in my earlier sobriety, although when I'm having a particularly bad day physically those feelings are usually still supplanted by less desirable ones. Also, my first sponsor suggested that I make a gratitude list every night before I go to bed, and this has helped a great deal in this struggle by serving to remind me of the good things I have in my life, my sobriety being right at the top of this list. In fact, I would suggest to all newcomers reading this that you make a gratitude list each night, no matter what else is going on in your lives, good or bad.


Member: Lee R.
Location: Baltimore Maryland
Date: 03 Sep 1999
Time: 23:54:12

Comments

Hello, my name is Lee and this is my first meeting. I am grateful that I did not drink today, although I wanted to pretty badly. My wife and I took my name off all bank accounts, at least for a while. That may sound childish but it's necessary right now. I am geateful that my wife has not left me...yet. I pray to God that I can turn myself around. I am also grateful that Webcrawler led me here. Please pray for me as I will for you.


Member: Loreena R.
Location: Cut Knife, Canada
Date: 04 Sep 1999
Time: 01:25:23

Comments

Hi I am Loreena and I am an alcoholic. Welcome to the people who are asking for help tonight. That is your 1st big step of a new life. It takes me back 7 1/2 months to remind me of how hard it was to make that 1st step and how I never want to be having to take that step again. Between thinking about the past, taking 1 day at a time, being grateful and the serenity prayer I am sober today. To the new comers asking for help remember this and live by it: God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can and the wisdom to know the difference.

Good Luck! Keep coming back.


Member: tammy a
Location: silver lake or
Date: 04 Sep 1999
Time: 01:37:39

Comments

hi i'm tammy and i am an alcoholic. i am so grateful to be sober today. i am grateful that my family has stayed by my side, grateful that i can wake up without feeling fear, grateful that i can go to an aa meeting and be around other people that understand me, grateful that i found a sponser who calls me on my crap, grateful for a life i never thought was possible for me. all this is possible through the fellowship of aa, thank you God for sending me where i needed to be.


Member: Paula G.
Location: MA
Date: 04 Sep 1999
Time: 08:41:12

Comments

Good Morning,

My name is Paula and I am an alcoholic. I am newly sober and am so grateful to have AA. I know that I am not alone and I can't stay sober without my AA friends. Thank GOD for the internet. It keeps me working the program and during the day if the need arises I can hop on the net and read and keep remembering what I am because it is sooo easy to forget. I went to my home meeting last night and I was so grateful I was there because I desperately needed to be there. Jaye, you are not alone. Seek help!!


Member: Joanne
Location: No. CA
Date: 04 Sep 1999
Time: 09:32:01

Comments

Sept. 4th is my AA birthday - How grateful I am for my life - I wouldn't be here if I hadn't stopped drinking - that's a lot of gratitude - I have 5+ years sober and altough they have been hard at times there also has been great joy - I can make plans and decisions and carry them through to completion - and I can be responsible for my life and my choices - plus I can change them if I choose to - I couldn't do any of these things when I was drinking. AA saves lives - many lives and I am eternally grateful for the fellowship - thank you -


Member: Joanne
Location: No. CA
Date: 04 Sep 1999
Time: 09:32:59

Comments

Sept. 4th is my AA birthday - How grateful I am for my life - I wouldn't be here if I hadn't stopped drinking - that's a lot of gratitude - I have 5+ years sober and altough they have been hard at times there also has been great joy - I can make plans and decisions and carry them through to completion - and I can be responsible for my life and my choices - plus I can change them if I choose to - I couldn't do any of these things when I was drinking. AA saves lives - many lives and I am eternally grateful for the fellowship - thank you -


Member: April H
Location: Redlands
Date: 04 Sep 1999
Time: 11:11:50

Comments

April, alcoholic. I am truly grateful that my husband and I are able to give our daughter her 8th B-day party. She is so excited. I have never been motivated to give her one before and she has never really asked. But, it has taken a few years in this program but I am starting to get motivated again and enjoying the simple things in life. I don't think I thought I could plan functions like this. Our friends from the program will be here, our parents. That is a true miracle. To have so many sober people in our lives and to have our parents proud of us is one thing I have wished for my entire life. Through hard work, perseverance, faith and one day at a time these things have happened. I really am so happy for my daughter. This is a gift I can give her with pride.


Member: Darwin D
Location: Brandon,Mb,Canada
Date: 04 Sep 1999
Time: 11:18:49

Comments

Hi everyone. My name is Darwin and I am an alcoholic. Just found this site today. Today I am grateful to be alive and sober. I have gone through some tough times lately as I was in a very serious car accident and broke my neck, back, shoulder blade and ribs which collapsed my lung. But through the grace of God I am alive and walking. I have been in the program for almost 4 years now and still marvel at the joy a life of sobriety can bring. Just wanted to share how I feel with people who can understand. I have so many things to be grateful for that I would have to write a book. To mention a few: my family, my girlfriend, my friends and the most important of all GOD. Thanks for allowing me to share with you today. I will be here very regularly from now on.


Member: carol a.
Location: mesq.nv.
Date: 04 Sep 1999
Time: 13:53:36

Comments

hi, carol a. loved..."you can't put a drink in a headfull of gratitude..." "change attitude by making a gratitude list.." these kind of one liners have saved me so many times. now 15 yrs sober....would not here of these things if I were not keep coming back. thank God for aa.


Member: Ron N.
Location: Ahwahnee,California
Date: 04 Sep 1999
Time: 15:58:40

Comments

Good Morning, my name is Ron and I am an alcoholic. One of my sponsees turned me on to this web site. I am home recovering from surgery and needed a meeting. Last saturday, August 28, I celebrated 22 years of continuous sobriety and am I ever grateful. Reading Ed's message really got to me, I have been through some difficult times in my sobriety, but nothing like what Ed has experienced. People like Ed show me the way!!

Again, I am reminded of the gratitude list at night. I really try to be grateful for the basics, my sobriety, eyes, hands, feet, and somewhat clear mind. I have been the member of the same home group for over 20 years, it is family. Have seen so many people come and go, it is only by trying to practice the 12 steps in all my affairs have I been able to stay sober with God's help.

Today is my 5th anniversary with a gal I met in Alanon, she is the most wonderful person and I am so grateful for her, we truly have a healthy relationship, which I thought was impossible.

Sobriety is just walking through my fears, one at a time, just like sobriety one day at a time.As I reflect back as to what I was like and what I am becoming...what a miracle. The promises on pages 83 and 84 in the Big Book have always come true , only by working for them. In closing I have been truly blessed by a program that is God given and I have to give it away to keep it...thank you all you sharing and a special prayer for Jaye!!


Member: Lyn F.
Location: Midwest
Date: 04 Sep 1999
Time: 17:58:19

Comments

Hi, my name is Lyn and I'm an alcoholic. I am so very grateful for everything in my life today including this meeting. I have been in the house for the last 9 days with 2 kids with the c-pox ! I had no clue that this meeting was on line until today. Talk about being GRATEFUL!! Thanks so much for the topic and all the coments!!!!! Talk to Ya !!


Member: Carol C.
Location: Metro Atlanta Area
Date: 04 Sep 1999
Time: 18:27:19

Comments

My name is Carol. I am an alcoholic. I am going through a very challenging time in my sobriety which involves a good deal of disruption in my home. I usually attend 5 meetings a week and I have made sure that I have continued to do that. I travel on my job, go to meetings out of town and email my sponsor, who continues to tell me to "hit my knees". I don't feel very grateful right now, but I am not ungrateful either. However, I am looking forward to a different topic next. Thank God for AA.


Member: Tamara M.
Location: AZ
Date: 04 Sep 1999
Time: 19:02:22

Comments

Hi, I'm Tamara....alcoholic/addict. These meetings are great! This sounds dumb, but I'm grateful for the guilt and shame I've been going through. It's made me realize the changes that need to be made."When you can convert your pain into your teacher, the road of excess can only lead to a palace of wisdom."


Member: Jim C.
Location:
Date: 04 Sep 1999
Time: 19:12:12

Comments

hello everyone, i'm jim and i'm an alcoholic and a drug addict. i've managed to string together a few twenty-four hours now and i'm most grateful to have a continually growing relationship with God and Jesus Christ. i'm today grateful for the knowledge that the positive things that i do are not due to my own intestinal fortitude, but by the grace of Him who sent me. each day i try to make sure that all the things i do go to glory him. i thank him daily for the fellowship and for the clubs that support our support groups.


Member: Julio Salas                                 
Location: Wilmington,Ca.
Date: 04 Sep 1999
Time: 23:12:11

Comments

Hi my name is July, I REALLY AM AN ALCHOLIC!! I am truely greatful for alcholic's Anonymous I have been sober now for about 120 day's. "One Day At A Time" Allthough I have been sober before, This time I have my family's support, and for this I am greatful! I really feel different. With a little work, and a lot of praying I can stay sober! My children and my Wife deserve a better life! I am the third generation of alcholic's In my family, I think's It's about time for a change. I know it takes alot of hard work, because you see I've been sober for 2 years before, and chose to drink again. So I know what I need to do. I am currently working hard on my sobriety. pray for me.


Member: Julio Salas                                 
Location: Wilmington,Ca.
Date: 04 Sep 1999
Time: 23:12:45

Comments

Hi my name is July, I REALLY AM AN ALCHOLIC!! I am truely greatful for alcholic's Anonymous I have been sober now for about 120 day's. "One Day At A Time" Allthough I have been sober before, This time I have my family's support, and for this I am greatful! I really feel different. With a little work, and a lot of praying I can stay sober! My children and my Wife deserve a better life! I am the third generation of alcholic's In my family, I think's It's about time for a change. I know it takes alot of hard work, because you see I've been sober for 2 years before, and chose to drink again. So I know what I need to do. I am currently working hard on my sobriety. pray for me.


Member: Julio Salas                                 
Location: Wilmington,Ca.
Date: 04 Sep 1999
Time: 23:13:13

Comments

Hi my name is July, I REALLY AM AN ALCHOLIC!! I am truely greatful for alcholic's Anonymous I have been sober now for about 120 day's. "One Day At A Time" Allthough I have been sober before, This time I have my family's support, and for this I am greatful! I really feel different. With a little work, and a lot of praying I can stay sober! My children and my Wife deserve a better life! I am the third generation of alcholic's In my family, I think's It's about time for a change. I know it takes alot of hard work, because you see I've been sober for 2 years before, and chose to drink again. So I know what I need to do. I am currently working hard on my sobriety. pray for me.


Member: Julio Salas                                 
Location: Wilmington,Ca.
Date: 04 Sep 1999
Time: 23:13:39

Comments

Hi my name is July, I REALLY AM AN ALCHOLIC!! I am truely greatful for alcholic's Anonymous I have been sober now for about 120 day's. "One Day At A Time" Allthough I have been sober before, This time I have my family's support, and for this I am greatful! I really feel different. With a little work, and a lot of praying I can stay sober! My children and my Wife deserve a better life! I am the third generation of alcholic's In my family, I think's It's about time for a change. I know it takes alot of hard work, because you see I've been sober for 2 years before, and chose to drink again. So I know what I need to do. I am currently working hard on my sobriety. pray for me.


Member: Julio Salas                                 
Location: Wilmington,Ca.
Date: 04 Sep 1999
Time: 23:14:05

Comments

Hi my name is July, I REALLY AM AN ALCHOLIC!! I am truely greatful for alcholic's Anonymous I have been sober now for about 120 day's. "One Day At A Time" Allthough I have been sober before, This time I have my family's support, and for this I am greatful! I really feel different. With a little work, and a lot of praying I can stay sober! My children and my Wife deserve a better life! I am the third generation of alcholic's In my family, I think's It's about time for a change. I know it takes alot of hard work, because you see I've been sober for 2 years before, and chose to drink again. So I know what I need to do. I am currently working hard on my sobriety. pray for me.


Member: Julio Salas
Location: Wilmington,Ca.
Date: 04 Sep 1999
Time: 23:15:40

Comments


Member: robin
Location: atlanta
Date: 04 Sep 1999
Time: 23:53:26

Comments

I want what ya'll have, but I feel I cannot go to a meeting f2f right now, I have a terrible fear of being in a group situation where I may be called on. I am trying in my own way. Thank you for all the encouraging words of wisdom.


Member: robin
Location: atlanta
Date: 05 Sep 1999
Time: 00:10:30

Comments

if anyone can relate to what I'm feeling, please let me know. The almighty told me I have Major Dression/Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress, Social phobia and OCD. How can anyone recover from all that? They can't!!@ I am just getting along with the resources I have. This spot has helped me.


Member: Sue V
Location: Exira Iowa
Date: 05 Sep 1999
Time: 00:25:47

Comments

I'm Sue and I am an alcoholic and an addict. I am so very grateful for so many things now. I could not have said that 3 1/2 years ago. I am grateful for the two geese that flew over my home as I left this morning. And for the squirrel chattering at me from his feeding perch. Without this program I would not have even noticed any of these small miracles God provided for me.

When I first entered the program, my sponsor gave me the task of writing a gratitude for every letter of the alphabet. What a struggle!! When I presented it to her so very proudly, she simply wrote on the bottom of it "Now read it and believe".

I am grateful for the acceptance in my life. I can live in this 24 hours and now with all my heart that the next 24 will be as good or better. And when I am faced with a day that is not exactly to my liking, I am grateful that I now know that it is exactly what I need and I don't whine and feel sorry for "poor little old me".

"Where I am right now is where I need to be, and where I am going is going to be good."

I am even now grateful for my past. I never thought I would ever say that. But living with the drinking and drug use, the physical and verbal abuse from my now ex, and the loss of respect, it has all brought me to the tables of AA.

I am not judged and I do not judge. I am accepted and I, in turn, accept everyone else. I have so many deep and personal friends, and, ironically, many of them I do not even know their last names!!!

I am so very grateful that AA has rebuilt me, so that I can now venture beyond it's doors into my community with self respect. I am now the cubmaster for my town and last week I presented my son with his Wolf badge. I just can't believe the multitudes of feelings going through me at that moment. Pride in him and pride in me. I was clean and sober, and we both worked hard to earn that badge. He gets to wear his on his chest, and I get to wear mine in my heart.

There isn't one part of my life I am not grateful for, (except maybe the bills and the collectors!). But even there I am gaining pride in that I am standing up to what I owe and we are working it out.

If the mountain was smooth, it would be awfully hard to climb. That is why God put all those boulders there for me. A chance to grow and go higher and higher. Today, I feel like I am sitting about half way up Mt. Everest! Life is grand and great.

Jaye, I can't give much better advice than what has already been given. Just remember be honest, openminded, and willing because what you are dealing with is cunning, baffling, and powerful. It's not easy, by it is worth it.

With God in my heart, Sue


Member: Mike F.
Location: Melbourne FL
Date: 05 Sep 1999
Time: 00:50:02

Comments

Hi, I'm Mike F. and I'm an alcoholic. I am really grateful for a few things right now. One I'm 10 months sober and I never thought i would be able to say that. Two, I go to group called "Just Us Pickles" and it is a fantastic bunch of people who really love and care about one another. We just recently had a problem where one of our members went out and got really messed up in his own head and decided to take it out on the group. He came in the night and torched the building we hold our meeting in. I'm really grateful I'm not him. He must be feeling an enormous amount of pain. I'm also grateful to him in a way because it has brought our group closer than ever. We still hold our meetings in the parking lot under the stars by lanterns.He could take away the building but he can't take away what is in our hearts and our desire to stay sober. Thank you all and God bless you. Mike F.


Member: Jim C
Location: Arkansas
Date: 05 Sep 1999
Time: 01:11:47

Comments

Hello I am Jim an Im a drunk. Im responding to Robin. Idont know anything about all those problems. But, in AA meetings I have heard everone of them talked about. I have seen viet-nam vets talk about post traumatic stress Bill w. amitted to being manic depressant. ( I think most AA's are. Including myself). I would like to caution you though. #1 we are not doctors and dont know (alot of the time) the best ways to get over these things. #2 Any one who gave you these diagonosis more than likly also gave you a perscription.And this is where the hard part comes in.I have seen since I have been sober: people that I known that could not have lived a decent life without taking the drugs. ... I have also in AA seen people die taking them to. Be carefull talk to as many people as possiable in AA. Try to keep a open mind. And do whats best for Robin. Were talking about something special here Robins life. I saw everthing listed but alcholism, I asume you have a drinking problem dont you ? If you do Great and welcome. If you have a desire to stop drinking, want what we have, and are willing to go to any lenghts to get it. And you too like a million others of us shall have it. It a great life today for me it was hell before AA. My best to you as we trudge the road of happy destiny.


Member: "Jersey"  Dan
Location: Santa Cruz Ca
Date: 05 Sep 1999
Time: 02:23:12

Comments

I pray to G-D to remove my self centeredniss and my fear of life. Today I am grateful for having another 24 hrs of sobriety. Blee you all


Member: Christa
Location: USA
Date: 05 Sep 1999
Time: 09:29:52

Comments

Robin,

Major depression can be treated and it does go away. All it takes is some time, 3 - 5 months is not unusual. You should go to a doctor, though, and take the medication s/he prescribes. Good luck to you! Hang in there and just know that it will get better.