Member: Libby
Location: Canada
Date: 9/15/2002
Time: 8:08:23 AM

Comments

What are your greatest joys in remaining sober? For me it is waking up knowing that I did the best I could yesterday, didn't drink and I don't feel like hell. It is sitting around with friends for an enjoyable evening knowing that I didn't do anything to humiliate myself or my family. I also take great joy in being a positive role model for my children when they see their mother having fun, but not having to drink to do it.


Member: Faith B
Location: Orlando, FL
Date: 9/15/2002
Time: 8:57:38 AM

Comments

Hi everybody. What a great topic Libby. My greatest joy being sober is that I had the privilege of seeing my son grow up, in sobriety, for most of his life. I also enjoy the clearheaded thinking and the calm body when I wake up in the morning. Now I pray and meditate instead of worrying about how I'm going to function that day. My other joy is doing 12 step work and helping others in the program thru sponsorship or by just lending an ear. The 11th step prayer is one I practice on a daily basis which helps my healing path as well as others. Knowing I have God within me helps to guide me in all I do. Thank God for sobriety! Have a wonderfully, sober day! Faith B


Member: Faith B
Location: Orlando, FL
Date: 9/15/2002
Time: 9:07:28 AM

Comments

Hi everybody. What a great topic Libby. My greatest joy being sober is that I had the privilege of seeing my son grow up, in sobriety, for most of his life. I also enjoy the clearheaded thinking and the calm body when I wake up in the morning. Now I pray and meditate instead of worrying about how I'm going to function that day. My other joy is doing 12 step work and helping others in the program thru sponsorship or by just lending an ear. The 11th step prayer is one I practice on a daily basis which helps my healing path as well as others. Knowing I have God within me helps to guide me in all I do. Thank God for sobriety! Have a wonderfully, sober day! Faith B


Member: Barbara W
Location: Sacramento, CA
Date: 9/15/2002
Time: 10:47:07 AM

Comments

My greatest joy sober is the spiritual life I have found. Life now has meaning and solutions. I find joy in the simple things and continue to grow everyday. Most days I have peace. WOW Not bad for a drunk.


Member: sue r
Location: oroville, CA
Date: 9/15/2002
Time: 11:26:20 AM

Comments

There are so many joys in being sober: waking up unafraid of what the day will bring, being able to sleep, self-pride, self-acceptance, knowing that there's a higher power to help when you're feeling edgy....so many, why did it take so long to get here???


Member: Charlie Darling
Location: Fort Myers via Key West FL
Date: 9/15/2002
Time: 12:13:19 PM

Comments

Hi family Charlie Darling a very grateful recovering alcholic. A Great topic for me it is having gratitude which I never had, as I always thought everyone owed me something, and I found out the greatest gift I could give myself, and everyone around me that I Love was my sobriety. I have become a person not only others but myself enjoy being around. I was able to get out of myself and help others. Did alot of volunteer work, and the meetings I attended help to bring me back to my HP, and I don't look at people for what they are now, and I have compassion which I never even knew what that was. Sobriety is the greatest and a grateful heart is a sober heart, and today i keep my heart sober for having gratitude, and I like the person I am becoming. It is strange to like oneself, and it makes others like you as well. Thank you AA for I owe you my life, and will continue to give it back in anyway that I can. I Love you all, and thank you for always being here for me and others. You are the greatest. kwduke_1999@yahoo.com


Member: Sarah A.
Location: FL
Date: 9/15/2002
Time: 12:51:01 PM

Comments

Sarah, alcoholic. One of my greatest joys in staying sober is waking up every morning feeling strong and self confident. I no longer have to wake up with that horrible feeling of "what did I do last night?". I used to think that it wouldn't matter if I disappeared from the world, but having been sober for 16 months now and seeing the people's lives that I have touched I know that my Higher Power had a plan for me and it wasn't for me to live my life drunk. I can never express in words everyting that sobriety has given me but I know that it is the greatest gift that I will ever receive. I feel so blessed each day that I am sober.


Member: Norman C.
Location: Reading, PA
Date: 9/15/2002
Time: 2:33:59 PM

Comments

Norm, Alcoholic. My greatest joy is life itself. I am confident that I'd be six feet under if I hadn't come to AA. I've seen so many wonders I wouldn't have lived to see!


Member: kimberley
Location: washington
Date: 9/15/2002
Time: 3:03:04 PM

Comments

Kimberley here alcholic, my greatest joy is the joy itself i have made a vast amount of friendships here, i feel a part of life now all my life i felt like an outsider, i love looking at gods wonders and thanking him.


Member: AZbill
Location: Sierra Vista, Arizona
Date: 9/15/2002
Time: 4:35:47 PM

Comments

I. Bill here, alcoholic from Arizona. The joys of staying sober. Like gratitude, I could write volumes. I firmly believe that if I am not happy in sobriety, I will drink again. Certainly getting back into the mainstream of life was wonderful. The return of my family fantastic. Today I am welcome in the homes of my former wife, my hubby in law and my six girls. I drank for 33 years. The last few years I was chained to a bar stool, shackled to the bottle. I could not go to bed without a bottle on the floor to see me through the night. So If you pin me down to one "joy", I would have to say my freedom. My freedom of choice. God loves me so much that he gave me the free will to choose to drink or not to drink each day. Today I chose not to drink. Thank you for being a part on my sobriety today. Bill, az-bill@mindspring.com


Member: Vee F.
Location: Midwest
Date: 9/15/2002
Time: 6:22:16 PM

Comments

Extremely grateful for a sober life, but the most joyful element is getting in touch with my inside self and liking her, and finding that hole in there filling up with things other than alcohol and grief. Thanks for being here for me 24/7. Now when I wake up too early I can get in touch instead of wondering where the hell I hid that damn bottle!!!


Member: Mike W
Location: Hillsdale, Michigan USA
Date: 9/15/2002
Time: 6:43:11 PM

Comments

Hi Everyone.. Mike, Cross Addicted, Getting Better Alcoholic here. Well clearly and emphatically my greatest joy is NOT this computer, as it had just zapped my last "share" into cyber unexistence!!! A half hours pouring out my heart in vain. STILL, by comparison, a lot better spent than the hours upon hours wasted in OBLIVION under the influence of John Barleycorn. Today all I can say is that I'm under The influence of LOVE. And since God IS LOVE.. And Perfect Love (Which He IS) Casteth out all fear.. I don't have any doubt that I can face anything that life throws my way without the need to drink over it. I enjoy a new freedom and a new happiness through the practicing of the 12 steps!!! The ability to face up to lifes challenges and battles without the overwelming LIE running my life, The one that dictated to me how I was to run my life, in utter bondage and dependancy to it. The ability to dicern Truth from Error.. And the ability to CHOOSE to do that which is good.. My worse day sober is still Far better than my best day drunk.. I Have a future of infinately more Wonderful and Excellent possibilities as long as I Don't pick up the first drink!!!! So I hope When I push this button, this makes it through this time!!! Thanks for helping me to stay sober!!!


Member: Mike W
Location: Hillsdale, Michigan USA
Date: 9/15/2002
Time: 6:45:04 PM

Comments

Hi Everyone.. Mike, Cross Addicted, Getting Better Alcoholic here. Well clearly and emphatically my greatest joy is NOT this computer, as it had just zapped my last "share" into cyber unexistence!!! A half hours pouring out my heart in vain. STILL, by comparison, a lot better spent than the hours upon hours wasted in OBLIVION under the influence of John Barleycorn. Today all I can say is that I'm under The influence of LOVE. And since God IS LOVE.. And Perfect Love (Which He IS) Casteth out all fear.. I don't have any doubt that I can face anything that life throws my way without the need to drink over it. I enjoy a new freedom and a new happiness through the practicing of the 12 steps!!! The ability to face up to lifes challenges and battles without the overwelming LIE running my life, The one that dictated to me how I was to run my life, in utter bondage and dependancy to it. The ability to dicern Truth from Error.. And the ability to CHOOSE to do that which is good.. My worse day sober is still Far better than my best day drunk.. I Have a future of infinately more Wonderful and Excellent possibilities as long as I Don't pick up the first drink!!!! So I hope When I push this button, this makes it through this time!!! Thanks for helping me to stay sober!!!


Member: Robert T.
Location: Beaverton Oregon
Date: 9/15/2002
Time: 10:36:40 PM

Comments

My greatest joy in remaining sober is to be able to look in the mirror and know honestly that I am not the guy that used to look back. Being able to hug my Grandson, talk to my kids and feel good about myself and not have to lie to them anymore. When they say they are proud of me and say they love me. To know that my friends in recovery love me and want to share and hang out with me.


Member: Bonny G.
Location: Hot Springs, AR
Date: 9/15/2002
Time: 11:08:46 PM

Comments

Hi everyone, Bonny grateful recoverying alcoholic, thanks for the topic Libby. My greatest joy in sobreity today is in the fellowship of this program. Being one with many for the first time in my life. But I am truly delighted when I see the newcomer's tears of joy and the sincerity in their words of acceptance as they reach 30 days or more of sobreity. I hope to never forget how truly grateful I've been to the AA program and the guidance I've received from the old timers. My family is especially thankful for the person I have become. And I can never repay the debt I owe to this fellowship. This is truly a gift from God for this alcoholic.


Member: Roy B.
Location: OHIO
Date: 9/15/2002
Time: 11:19:40 PM

Comments

Hi Family, My greatest joy is I have truly found myself for the first time. I have learned who Roy is. It's has been such a wonderful and beautiful experience. I never realy new who or what I was. Don't ever want to go back and live with the old Roy. I thank you and others for help keeping me sober and somewhat sane these past 13 years. I love you all!!!


Member: PJ
Location: Florida
Date: 9/15/2002
Time: 11:24:53 PM

Comments

Thanks for the great topic Libby! I am so grateful for all of the joys of being sober! It is the joy of serenity and the joy of a spiritual connection. It is the joys of a loving marriage and being there for my children. It is the joy of having choices and the joy of giving it away. It is the joy of feelings and the joy of being alive. It is the joy of being comfortable in my own skin. It is the joy of following the 12-Steps to live my life the way I am supposed to live it. It is the joy of true friendships and new adventures. It is the joy of waking up at peace with myself and the world each morning. I am truly a grateful, recovering alcoholic! Thanks for being here & letting me share.


Member: john m
Location: Oregon
Date: 9/15/2002
Time: 11:49:10 PM

Comments

One of my gratest joys is having a loving father who accepts me as I am and doesn't yell at me, call me names, put me down, hit me. The "dad" i always wanted and never had...someone I can talk to and he just listens and takes pleasure in my efforts to do the next right thing. Knowing I made it another day and didn't have to worry if I did anything terrible. A clear hede, a clear conscience and contribtuing to this planet of ours leaving it always better in someway each day that when I awoke. Just knowing that is serenity!


Member: Kate S
Location: Australia
Date: 9/15/2002
Time: 11:52:33 PM

Comments

I'm Kate, and I'm an Alcoholic. My greatest joy is being able to look in the mirror and realize that I like myself. It took a lot of years in AA and the application of a lot of humility to get to this point. My sponsor constantly told me that my pride was my problem, and I didn't know what he meant until he said "It is just as bad to think you're the worst as it is to think you're the best. You're still making yourself exclusive." So I tried to stop criticizing myself and to think positive. Now, after years of practicing the 12 steps, I can fell the joy and freedom of being me and liking myself. Kate


Member: Bill G.
Location: Texas
Date: 9/15/2002
Time: 11:56:58 PM

Comments

The fear and anger are GONE! Thank GOD!!!


Member: Deb D
Location: Vermont
Date: 9/16/2002
Time: 9:21:16 AM

Comments

My greatest joy right now is that I found this site so that I can talk to all of you, this is only my third day and is pretty scary,trying to find things to do is not as easy as it seems. But I will keep trying with the guidance of all of you, thank-you


Member: jj
Location:
Date: 9/16/2002
Time: 11:20:36 AM

Comments

jj,alcoholic, i'm finding joy in how interesting and satisfying life outside of my little world is. it's taken a lot of your love to get me out there where the real joys of life are waiting. early on for me, a crazy old cajun alcoholic used to repeatedly say: "me all wrapped up is a pretty small package!" i'm happy to say i'm getting a bigger package to day and love it. thanks libby for reminding me this a.m. how much better it is.


Member: Finn F
Location: Long Island
Date: 9/16/2002
Time: 12:07:51 PM

Comments

A wonderful topic indeed. Thanks to all for sharing. My greatest joy was to stop shaking, stop throwing up blood, begin to remember things, and after a few months, begin to pursue a life-long dream which had eluded me all during my 20 years of drinking. At the age of 40 I got a pilots license, and this (plus 20 extra years of lving) has been my single greatest benefit from sobriety.


Member: Millie W
Location: Michigan
Date: 9/16/2002
Time: 2:31:10 PM

Comments

Millie Alcoholic. My greatest joy of being sober is life itself. One terriffing day in July 2001, I had a massive heart attack. I was on life support for ten days. I almost left three children without a mother.I am so greatful God gave me a second chance.I used to wake up to a drink each morning. Now i wake up each morning and Thank God for today and the second chance at life. Although at times it has not been easy,I have been sober for fourteen months now.LIFE--What a wonderful four letter word. millie-in-detroit@webtv.net


Member: Frank E.
Location: Dickson,TN.
Date: 9/16/2002
Time: 2:48:28 PM

Comments

Hey,very grateful drunk named Frank.Im grateful to know what grateful means today.I was never grateful for anything before.A.A.has given me so much I could spend hours. Gave me My God,my son back & my self back,I had been lost for so many years.I have a wonderful family(aa) in my life today,true friends.Also,after all these years I know what freedom feels like! I understand what love for others is all about. My disease took so much from my life ,but nothing my GOD cant/wont give back.Thank you A.A.,Thank you family...


Member: Tom S
Location: NYC
Date: 9/16/2002
Time: 2:50:50 PM

Comments

Tom, alcoholic. The greatest joy for me is knowing that I can show up and be present for myself in any capacity. Including those difficult, disturbing and fearful aspects of life. Joy is knowing that I have a higher power who grants me the willingness to show up whether I want to or not. This would never have been possible while I was drinking. AA taught me that this could only be achieved by not drinking and going to meetings one day at a time.


Member: Joy V.
Location: Arizona
Date: 9/16/2002
Time: 3:35:29 PM

Comments

Greetings dear ones, The fact that I am able to EXPERIENCE joy today is such a miracle! Before I was an angry, fearful, depressed, self-pitying mess trying to medicate the pain with booze or anything else within reach. I'm coming up to anniversary #21 which is just amazing to me. It's is truly God's grace, plus I've done my part working the program. My greatest joys in sobriety are seeing other people get set free and doing whatever I can to support them in their journey, being able to think of others more than myself and do things for them, having a good relationship with my son (now an official adult @ 18 yrs), being delivered from the shame and bondages of the past, and knowing I'm right where God wants me & I'm doing the work He wants me to do. There's quite a lot of other joys as well. I may just start a list to put on my refrig as a reminder! Love and blessings to you all.


Member: Rich P
Location: Colorado
Date: 9/16/2002
Time: 4:20:13 PM

Comments

I wake up rested and alert to my 18-month-old son saying, "Da!" silence for 10-15 seconds, then another, "Da!" We have almost an hour together before the rest of the family rises. The hour is deeply steeped in rituals - measure the beans, count to 10 while they grind, get the water for the coffee, get the paper, watch the news, etc. If I forget anything in the pattern, my son will point it out. He sits on my lap with his milk while I sip coffee and watch the news. Every now and then he looks up with a huge grin on his face and leans into my body. Then I hear a soft and loving, "Daaaaaa". You all know where I was during this same hour of the morning when I was still drinking. I missed the miracle then, I have a little miracle every morning today. What a gift!


Member: Valerie M.
Location: Canada
Date: 9/16/2002
Time: 6:40:19 PM

Comments

Hi to all! You know what I notice week after week... the people that share here, at this meeting and at this site, are some of the best writers I have ever read! The descriptions, the honesty and the way it's all put down on "cyber paper" is really quite amazing. I'm grateful to have you all to read everyday. Okay, enough with the flattery! The joys of being sober for me are - having my family, feeling at peace with myself instead of ashamed and fearful and most of all, having myself back - still intact but a whole lot wiser! Have a "wunnerful" week everyone.


Member: Marv L.
Location: Ms.
Date: 9/16/2002
Time: 9:44:49 PM

Comments

Hi,Marv,grateful recovering alcololic,enjoying sobriety,one day at a time.Seems maybe I did ONE THING about right-drank alcohol that robbed me of any power to choose,and really wanted to stop living that way. Thanks for letting me walk into a meeting,most folks didnt wanta see me again!! Life sure took a turn for the better,and i beleived you when you told me there is a way out..with your help,ive tried it now for twenty-one years sober,and i KNOW that only by the grace of my higher power,your fellowship and love,and the 12 step program of AA am I able to be the man Ive become.SO much joy behind me,saw a son and daughter grow up right,now helping spoil four fine grandkids! These years have been wonderful,still go to my meetings,love to try to give whats been given me,and share the joys of a good life. Hey, I knocked on many doors,sadly found they didnt work,but AA sure does! Hope ya"ll find,too, that God can,and will,if he is sought,give relief for our alcoholism..Love ya!! Marv


Member: Michael B.
Location: AZ
Date: 9/16/2002
Time: 11:12:08 PM

Comments

Hi! My name is Michael, and I am a recovering alcohlic andaddict, sober today only by the Grace of God and the Fellowship. Thanks for the sincere shares. Welcome newcomers! Ditto, Libby, regarding your middle 2 sentences: I couldn't have said it better. Perhaps my greatest joy in sobriety is the very fact that I experience joy, something I was unfamiliar with during my drinking days(years). What a gift!


Member: GabeM
Location: MI.
Date: 9/17/2002
Time: 3:25:12 AM

Comments

Hi,I'm gabe and i am an alcoholic.the greatest joy i have today is the fact that i finally got that rock bottom fealing like i was almost waiting maybe even working on it. I was forced to sober buy the courts for a year and as soon as i got off probation(like the same day)i relapsed and because of that i lost the most important things in my life and it finally clicked that from age 10-19 the only time my life was bearable was when i was sober so here i am back again.Taking it one day at a time trying to hold on to all my faith wich seems hard right now. Thank you all for posting comments because of you i stayed sober today


Member: Scott R.
Location: Canada
Date: 9/17/2002
Time: 9:54:35 AM

Comments

Hi, I'm Scott and I'm an alcoholic. My greatest joys in remaining sober? Getting up without a hangover, doing things I always wanted to do but never did because I was drunk, or had no money because I was drunk...being (more) honest ;) being more healthy, knowing who my true friends are, graduating university, being friends with my parents...and the list goes on. Why? Because I was beaten by Barleycorn. Now I am on a new road and life is a heck of a lot brighter this way. Have a great day folks.


Member: Craig L (Dogmanor@yahoo.com)
Location: Aloha, Oregon
Date: 9/17/2002
Time: 10:08:15 AM

Comments

My earliest memories were abandonment and fear. I was an angry pathetic hopeless creature. My first fifth step was difficult and frightening, but I had been completely beaten by alcoholism and the pain had become too much to bear any longer. After entering into the seventh step, I felt as though I could breath for the first time. The world became living color instead of the shades of gray I had always known. God granted me the gift of Joy. Today, if I’m willing to remain open minded and honest, my Joy has no bounds.


Member: Louis
Location: Ottawa,Canada
Date: 9/17/2002
Time: 10:32:19 AM

Comments

Louis, alkie. I did not feel so good today,and now that i red all your comments i feel better.The joy of having a place or site to go to for free is a great joy and being sober today is a joy and a miracle.thanks for being here.


Member: Zoe
Location: In Orbit
Date: 9/17/2002
Time: 1:01:16 PM

Comments

Hi, Zoe, alcoholic. I've been sober 11 years. I'm 34. I think my biggest joy and what keeps me sober is the capacity to change me and some situations. I've had a rocky road in sobriety. I think I have battle scars I got even in sobriety but I don't regret for a minute being sober. Those battles would have happened anyway, I'd just not been able to do anything about it if I were drunk. Having hope is a joy. The capacity to do anything, to be free and full in the heart with love. Thats my joys.


Member: Anne M
Location: NY
Date: 9/17/2002
Time: 3:51:10 PM

Comments

Hi, Anne, alcoholic. I am at the very beginning of my journey, but so far in 4 months of sobriety my joys are actually accomplishing a goal (not drinking), feeling better physically, and the willingness to grow emotionally and spiritually. Also, although I must admit I am still quite impatient with my daughter, she is one of my greatest joys and I'm glad I can be sober for her.


Member: Connie S..
Location: Lancaster, CA
Date: 9/17/2002
Time: 6:10:11 PM

Comments

Hello, my name is Connie S. Great topic! An attitude of gratitude goes a long way. Whenever I get into self, my sponsor has taught me to write a gratitude list. Most of the time, I am truly grateful to be sober. It helps when I trust God, clean house and work with others. I have to remember the first step every day and invite God in each and every day and then thank him at the end of the day for another day He gave me the willingness and openmindedness and honesty to stay sober another day.


Member: paul b.
Location: ne
Date: 9/17/2002
Time: 6:56:33 PM

Comments

the greatest joy since i sober is not having to do what alcohol and drugs demanded i do!


Member: Joyce E.
Location: Baltimore, Md.
Date: 9/18/2002
Time: 1:26:06 AM

Comments

Hi All, I'm definitely an alcoholic, my name is Joyce.My greatest joy in sobriety is just being the best "me" that I can be.With the help of my Higher Power, and by LIVING the 12 Steps of A.A. I can finally live life on "Life's terms".I am very content in my sobriety.After 19 yrs. of sobriety, I can honestly say I am "Happy, joyous & free!"


Member: Dave B.
Location: Cleveland, OH.
Date: 9/18/2002
Time: 1:29:15 AM

Comments

Dave, alcoholic. Wow, great topic for my first time here. Joy has been an elusive emotion over these last eight years. But I must say there has been no greater joy than working with a new guy and seeing the light go on in his eyes. No amount of booze could ever do that for me. It is so good to have a place to hear how you all establish joy in your lives. So far it seems to all boil down to gratitude. I've allways been told "keep it simple" I'll continue to work on that "attitude of gratitude" Thanks.


Member: Donna S. for Sister in The Spirt
Location: Fresno, CA
Date: 9/18/2002
Time: 2:14:01 AM

Comments

Donna, Grateful RECOVERED alcoholic. The book promised I could be recovered, I am and I am GRATEFUL for that fact as well as being JOYFUL in it! I have the ability to live each day as it comes and with hindsight being 20/20 I get to see the silver lining in all those clouds that seem to pleaqe my life. With this "attitude of gratitude" even when calamity hits I surrender it and it turns to serenity before I know it, again, just like the Big Book promised! Be with God everyone! Love Donna S. for Sister in The Spirit


Member: Mark D
Location: NH
Date: 9/18/2002
Time: 9:01:30 AM

Comments

My greatest joy in sobriety is that I no longer seek out the "greatest" anything. The giant Highs and the lowest Lows are moderated by a sense that I will wake up tomorrow and know that whatever conditions that are affecting me at the present will be different somehow by either a change in attitude from asking for help or advice, sharing the moment, me getting off my butt and doing something about it; or just having faith that this to shall pass. None of these options are viable with booze in my system or the romance of it in my head. I will admit a particular joy of having helped in some small way another alcoholic. Stacy over in the Early Sobriety forum just posted a very nice comment about my posts over there. My mind reels at the thought that something I say could be of significance to someone in that really difficult early period of recovery. To that I say thanks to everyone who passed their bits of experience, strenth and hope to me. Like it said in the movie, thoght Bill W. & Dr. Bob kind of codified the practice a long time ago--Pay It Forward.


Member: greg n
Location: MI
Date: 9/18/2002
Time: 11:54:43 AM

Comments

My greatest joy of being sober is knowing that as long as I work the program and follow the steps that things will be immeasurably better than what they would or could have been! Instead of becoming the next DUI statistic or WORSE, I now look forward to a happy, healthy, sober life! Thanks!


Member: Holly S
Location: Michigan
Date: 9/18/2002
Time: 1:41:33 PM

Comments

Wow, it's been almost a year since I visited the site. Great topic...I'm grateful that I'm here...I came back. I tried it out there again, and things just get worse. Everyone told me, but I had to learn for myself. Thanks to everyone for loving me, without knowing me, and for encouraging me to come home to my "family" Love,Holly


Member: pbs
Location:
Date: 9/18/2002
Time: 2:54:23 PM

Comments

Thanks for the thoughtful topic. My greatest joy with the program today is that I remain teachable and it's easy for me to admit my mistakes. I revel in the silence of the moment because silence teaches me what is important this moment. May all our moments be sober.


Member: Glenn D.
Location: Cleveland, OH
Date: 9/18/2002
Time: 8:39:48 PM

Comments

My greatest joy of the program today is having had the opportunity to attend 12 of the past 13 International Conference's of Young People in AA. Being at the bid committee in SanFransico, my first ICYPAA (an 8 hour meeting) I learned the love and joy the program had to teach me. God was that a good meeting & conference and its been such a joyous journey since then, not without its moments of hell, thats why they call it LIFE, its REAL, sober.(Son Of a Bitch Everythings Real)


Member: Rufus L.
Location: Mo.
Date: 9/18/2002
Time: 10:06:57 PM

Comments

Libby , My greatest joy also is to wake up another day without not taking a drink for that day. But my top joy is that now I'm in school trying to become an alcohol and drug counselor. I didn't get no farther than the 10th grade in high school. So being able to get back in school is one of my greatest joys. This has really helped me to love myself again. So please thank you very much for commenting about your joy. Because this is really helping me to stay sober each and every day.


Member: Mark W.
Location: St. Louis
Date: 9/19/2002
Time: 8:31:04 AM

Comments

What a wonderful topic! For me the joy comes when the daily trials begin. So many seem insurmountable. All my problems won't be solved today or tomorrow, BUT I don't have to drink over them anymore. Joy defined.......... Mark W. LMW007@aol.com


Member: DonnaR
Location: Oakland CA
Date: 9/19/2002
Time: 12:43:38 PM

Comments

Wow - good topic to think about. My greatest joy in being sober is that I do not have to be in charge any more! I have the ability to let it go, take action, do the footwork and KNOW that things will turn out exactly the way they are suppose to. I do not have to understand every little thing that is happening - I can just let it happen and continue to learn. I am so grateful to be living a sober life.


Member: :)
Location:
Date: 9/19/2002
Time: 1:34:12 PM

Comments

Greatest joy - LIFE !


Member: John O'L
Location: DFW Texas
Date: 9/19/2002
Time: 6:32:24 PM

Comments

This is John, a grateful alcoholic. I would like to share that some of my greatest joys are that I have a wife who has never seen me drunk, two dogs who have not had to go hungry because I spent the dog food money on beer, friends who would never believe that I drank because I've never drank in front of them, police officers who don't know my name, etc. Other great joys are that I have friends who are happy that I no longer get drunk and have all those unfortunate experiences, feelings, jams, scrapes, lost jobs, etc. Many other joys in AA, almost too numerous to mention, however we come up with new ones that we become aware of every day, don't we????? God Bless all of you and all the future members of the Fellowship of Alcoholics Anonymous!


Member: Lee G.
Location: Virginia
Date: 9/19/2002
Time: 6:44:32 PM

Comments

My greatest joys have been raising 4 children while sober, seeing them grown, now with 6 grand children and 3 great grands. I owe my life to my HP and the program & principles of AA. I live happy, joyous and free with 38 years of sobriety. Willl be 75 next month. In fellowship & friendship


Member: Rebecca
Location: Fl
Date: 9/19/2002
Time: 10:43:03 PM

Comments

My greatest joy thus far is learning how to love myself again which I could not do with this program and you people. I could NOT do it. Now, by the grace of my HP, I am. I never knew I could be this grateful. Love


Member: Leane D.
Location: Joliet, IL.
Date: 9/20/2002
Time: 12:22:34 AM

Comments

Hi I'm Leane and I'm an alcoholic. Didn't go to a meeting today. This is great. Now I have been to a meeting within my home. I have recently relapsed. It has been 6 days since my last drink. It feels good to surrender. My biggest joy right now is letting alcohol go. It feels good to wake up sober. It feels good to go to bed sober. Thank you God for keeping me sober today.


Member: everyone can live
Location:
Date: 9/20/2002
Time: 12:49:52 AM

Comments

life is good thank you lord


Member: Shirley T
Location: New Zealand
Date: 9/20/2002
Time: 4:46:19 AM

Comments

Thanks Libby for starting a wonderful week of sharing. My greatest joy is just being alive for alcohol nearly killed me. I would have missed all the other joys this journey of sobriety has gifted me. Freedom most times from those nameless fears now gives me the courage to try new ventures and broaden my outlook. It doesn't matter if I'm not the best or even if I fail. Seeing the light of hope turn on in the eyes of the newcomer and being there to help when needed. Walking each day with my loving God and being willing to follow directions. Deb D - welcome to this wonderful fellowship, and stay long enough for the miracle which so many have shared this week. Joy V - Loved your sharing, I too approach #21. Thank you all for the joys you have expressed.


Member: Ronnie L
Location: Virgin Islands
Date: 9/20/2002
Time: 8:59:40 AM

Comments

Hi, Ronnie here, I am an alcoholic! Sobriety has been great for me. Coming up on 15 years pretty soon. Who would have thunk it? It's great to wake every morning, not having to look myself in the mirror and see the me I couldn't stand. WIll be another great day today. Have to continue living my life one day at a time. What a way of life! Thanks!


Member: Bill P.
Location: Michigan
Date: 9/20/2002
Time: 9:59:18 AM

Comments

Bill P. here, alcoholic. Just checking in to thank all of you for reminding me that we are in this together. Sometimes I forget how the "WE" of this program gives us new perspective and that ray of hope for a truly better life. New, with four months sober, my life is getting better and I am filled with gratitude for the fellowship we are blessed with. Peace to all of you.


Member: na
Location: na
Date: 9/20/2002
Time: 2:47:14 PM

Comments

What is joy???


Member: Bill P.
Location: Michigan
Date: 9/20/2002
Time: 3:12:48 PM

Comments

To na - Joy is something that comes to you when you reach spiritual health. Alcoholism is a spiritual disease. If we work the 12 steps, our spiritual health will improve and we will begin to love ourselves for who we are. Once we love ourselves, we are able to love others. To me, joy is a feeling of being one with God, and the world. A feeling of gladness, peace, serenity, and gratitude, all wrapped up into one. Thanks to all who come to the table...


Member: Jan BB
Location: Paris, France
Date: 9/20/2002
Time: 4:36:06 PM

Comments

Oh, I like this topic ((Libby)). My greatest joy's these past 12+ years has the same ring as so many other's. Waking each day sober, living life with no regret's or remorse. Marrying at seven years sober a man I still, each day, truly love and cherish, the birth of our son and raising him together, in a sober household. Knowing each day as I ask God for his will to be done, the path stretches before me. I have some day's with knocks, but most days, the small joy's and pleasures seem to shine through the most. I feel good in my skin; want what I have and have what I want, that's my joy, a sober life, thank you AA.


Member: Tim G.
Location: Michigan
Date: 9/20/2002
Time: 6:31:07 PM

Comments

Brain works better,especialy when lots of meetings are attended.


Member: davez
Location: berkleymi
Date: 9/20/2002
Time: 7:54:16 PM

Comments

A better way of life. Not necessarily always an easier way of life, but a better way of life. ><


Member: Buddy S.
Location: near New Orleans
Date: 9/21/2002
Time: 12:26:34 AM

Comments

I'm Buddy, an alcoholic. I've been gone for about six years and can report that things haven't gotten any better out there. Recently returned and, after a week or so, I've begun to recall all of the gifts I recieved when last in recovery. Today, my greatest joy in recovery is that the doors to this program remained open to me and that I feel sanctuary within them. I look forward to working the steps again and experiencing the growth, serenity, and acceptance I used to know. There's a silver lining to every cloud. My silver lining after a rough, rough run out there is I get to do it again.


Member: AnilG
Location: MtVernon,IL
Date: 9/21/2002
Time: 8:50:55 AM

Comments

I am an alcoholic great topic the greatest joy for me for being sober is to be happy to get my life back togather had hit my bottom few yrs and now I have my licence to pracitce medicine and I am more active then ever my energies have returned and I can work hard. earn my respect back. Thanks to aa and alnon.


Member: pbs
Location:
Date: 9/21/2002
Time: 3:29:29 PM

Comments

Lee G., God bless! It was a Virginian who made it clear to me -- "If you want to quit drinkin' ya gotta quit drinkin'.Put the plug in the jug." At the time I hated that simple advice. At the time.


Member: Juha P
Location: Amsterdam, Holland
Date: 9/21/2002
Time: 8:04:22 PM

Comments

I'm grateful just to wake up to a new day because I don't think that I would be alive anymore if there wasn't AA. I try to keep the "attitude of gratitude" in my mind and trying to do my best not to worry too much and focus myself on helping other people. Able to see the beauty of life around me, trees, sunshine, birds, life in general. Also praying, attending regular meetings, working on my steps, helps me to enjoy life. I'm doing today things that I like, taking long walks with my dog, cycling and travelling when ever I can afford it. Thank you AA that I'm alive and well today.


Member: Jenny B
Location:
Date: 9/21/2002
Time: 10:12:07 PM

Comments

Hi, Jennifer, Alcholic among other things. Right now my gratitude is all i can hold onto. I have been sober for 11 years and staying in the moment and holding onto my gratitude is what gets me through moments. My marraige is falling apart and I don't know how to handle it. I just sometimes wish i could go back to my earlier days of recovery when it was all so less painfull. So anyone who is new dosn't think it's a gift. Think again.


Member: Erma G.
Location: Utica, N.Y.
Date: 9/22/2002
Time: 3:46:05 AM

Comments

It's been a physically,mentally and emotionally draining week for me this week at work and at home.My greatest joy in sobriety today is that whatever goes down...I can handle it in a way I don't have to be ashamed of or sorry for if I use the principles of this program to guide my thoughts and actions.Thank God for AA and my fellows on the journey.


Member: Al Coholic
Location: Under the Table
Date: 9/22/2002
Time: 7:45:11 AM

Comments

What time Does "This week" Start????


Member: Al Coholic
Location: Under the Table
Date: 9/22/2002
Time: 8:19:23 AM

Comments

Hi Please help me with suggestions as to how to handle people who are supposed to be under your authority and leadership who are acting in rebellion, openly or inadvertantly.. And personally coping with the resentments, frustrations, anger ...leading to my mistreeting them in my verbal "chastening of them" I just get so sick of attitude problems and dealing with a spirit of strife and division in the home .. Thankyou for your help .. God bless!!! Al