Member: Heather
Location: UT
Date: June 15, 2003
Time: 06:35 AM
Shima, you go!!! That about says it, I guess!!! If that doesn't some up this program, I don't know what does. Mike, put THAT in your pipe and smoke it!!! I just read an archived meeting from '98 in which Sanders picked the topic of "favorite one-liners" (AA slogans). Sanders, good on ya!! I'd been looking for something like that; I have way too many of these scribbled down around my computer. I found a lot I'd never heard before and some I needed to hear again. It may have been 5 years ago, but it still rocks!! Now to go read the archived meeting on "insomnia".....(at 4:36 am Mountain) Happy Father's Day!!!
Member: Betty B
Location:
Date: June 15, 2003
Time: 10:16 AM
Annie, you are doing the right thing--you are lucky you recognize where you are headed while you are young and can get this vice out of your life and fill it with great and fulfilling things. It's not really fun to drink - not in the long run. Look at the people who are working hard to accomplish in life and follow their example --(NOW THAT'S WHERE THE FUN IS!) -- Those who think that drinking is what means a good time are deluded. Take it from an old fool (ok not that old - but wasted way too much time thinking that I could handle it - WASTED TIME that's what it amounts to in a long run - wasted health -- Don't be afraid, do the steps, know the traditions so no one drags you down the wrong path even in this program -- get out of the need to alter your state with chemicals NOW while your young and fill the void with good things. I don't mean to preach, but I was gullable enough when I was your age. I whish I had this advice then. Betty
Member: Susan G
Location: New Jersey
Date: June 15, 2003
Time: 02:03 PM
Susan G here again...and yes I AM an alcoholic - powerless over alcohol with an unmanageable life. I just wanted to say thank-you to everyone here who responded to my post a couple days ago. Yesterday I dealt with the worst obsession to drink in the 4 1/2 months I've been sober but managed not to pick up. If I wasn't an alcoholic, I would've been able to just go out and have a few drinks and leave it at that. But I can't drink normally anymore - I've done enough damage to myself I don't want to go down the road and see how much worse it can get. All of your words here really saved me from taking another drink. I appreciate this on-line community because it's even more 'anonymous' in some ways than a meeting -- I wasn't able to share in meetings about my anxieties about not fitting in...though I'm sure I would have gotten the same support there that I got here. I feel for the guys (Mike, Jameson) who only can proclaim negativity towards AA and its members...they obviously are looking for help or they wouldn't be here. I don't want to suffer from the same kind of stubbornness & denial anymore - it's what kept me out of AA for 3 years when I knew I needed help with drinking. Today I just want to get better, and I'm just grateful I got into this program when I did. I've re-joined AA again for this 24 hours, by the grace of God and wth help from people like you ..
Member: xx
Location: xx
Date: June 15, 2003
Time: 02:15 PM
xx
Member: Carrie
Location: Los Angeles
Date: June 15, 2003
Time: 02:32 PM
God never says no. His only responces are, "Not now" or "I have something better for you".
Member:
Location:
Date: June 15, 2003
Time: 02:42 PM
My favorite one liner? A big long line of crank or cocaine. The bigger the better!
Member:
Location:
Date: June 15, 2003
Time: 02:43 PM
What a stupid topic. Couldn't Xxxxx think of 'slogans' instead?
Member: L-RAY
Location: SCOTLAND
Date: June 15, 2003
Time: 03:14 PM
Well done ((((Susan)))) the saying that comes to mind "Stick with the winners" regards L-RAY
Member: Carlc
Location: nm
Date: June 15, 2003
Time: 04:18 PM
Who in the world picked this stupid topic? We are on a life and death errand and all people talk about are these stupid slogans and one liners and what there sponsors say. We have two alternatives, we accept spiritual help or we go the bitter end. These slogans are bullshit and have no business in AA. Anyone who has trouble with this call your sponsor a little ass kissing and all these cute little sayings will either get you drunk or dead.
Member: Trace
Location: Essex England
Date: June 15, 2003
Time: 04:53 PM
I have to disagree when I am in that dark tunnel it is then the one liners that sound so corney when you don't need them but are oh so blessed when you do, I have been saved so many times by the "Keep it in the day" slogan it has calmed me down and made me see things as they really are.
Member: Kerry C
Location: Texas
Date: June 15, 2003
Time: 05:04 PM
Carl C, might I suggest that you do a little research before spouting your version of AA. You see these "stupid" slogans as you call them have been with AA for a long time. I suggest that you read the Grapevine article written July 1960 by Bill Wilson called Let's Keep It Simple. I'll quote this part of it for you. "Therefore we ask, Has AA really kept faith with Dr. Bob's warning, 'Let's keep it simple'? " And while I am on the subject read the Grapevine article written by Bill Wilson in June 1966 called In Remembrance of Ebby. This is one of the things that Bill says about Ebby. "In his seventieth year, and on the twenty-first of March, my friend and sponsor Ebby passed beyond our sight and hearing." Now the most common and oldest slogan is Keep it simple which Dr. Bob originated. Bill claims Ebby was his sponsor, so I am tired of hearing your uninformed crap. You might get your facts straight before spouting off. I am certain you will take offense about this post and apologize in advance, but I am tired of reading your misleading statements.
Member: Kerry C
Location: Texas
Date: June 15, 2003
Time: 06:09 PM
My favorite slogan is "Do the next right thing." That helps keep me focused and not become overwhelmed with the work I need to do on me. It helps me to break things down into little chunks. It kind of relates to the serenity prayer. There are things I can and can't change now. So I just work on the next right thing. I also think AA slogans are great little reminders that come to mind easily. That is especially important to me when my mind kicks into alcoholic overdrive and starts leading me astray. It is hard to remember a paragraph out of the Big Book during those times, but simple statements like the slogans are there without much thought.
Member: CarolD
Location: Dallas, Ga, USA
Date: June 15, 2003
Time: 06:52 PM
Hi Everyone.... I was in and out...up and down in AA. Took me 5 years to earn a 1 year medallion. “Keep Coming Back It Works” hung over the door. I did and it has. LOL
Member: Phil A
Location: Geordieland UK
Date: June 15, 2003
Time: 07:17 PM
It's gotta be "Bring the body and the mind will follow" just over four years sober and I'm still waiting for the mind to catch up sometimes, lol. Ev'ry time I seem to get there someone moves the goalposts ((Calc)) When a person, Place, Thing or situation is bothering me what is it in me that needs fixing? GeordieWally@aol.com
Member: Suzyqnj
Location: NJ
Date: June 15, 2003
Time: 08:09 PM
Insanity preceeds the first drink
Member: Kim V
Location: kvaughn@madison.main.nc.us
Date: June 15, 2003
Time: 08:39 PM
Kim V here alcholic. I just got back from my home group meeting where I celebrated my 7th anniversary and I think my favorite one line slogan still is "'Still Powerless". I once had a sponsor who has it on a bumper sticker on her car and I have always wanted one. manily because I am still powerless. Thanks for letting me share.
Member:
Location:
Date: June 15, 2003
Time: 10:09 PM
hey calrc.....have you heard of "easy does it" ?or "think, think, think"? or "There for the grace of God go I"?.......seems like you might have benefited along the way if you had....... whats the name of the program you work....i,m facinated......
Member: Laughing
Location:
Date: June 16, 2003
Time: 12:04 AM
Carl's program is called "How to Stay Grumpy For the Rest of Your Life in 12 Easy Steps".
Member: Troy C
Location: Maryland, USA
Date: June 16, 2003
Time: 12:08 AM
Hello Everyone,Troy ,alcohalic /addict here, Congrad's Kim V to your 7th year. i hope i see 7 years sober in my new way of life. My favorite one liner is,:LIFE IS THE GREATEST "HIGH" OF THEM ALL!<FROM THE ONE DAY AT A TIME BOOK>. I went to my favorite meeting tonight.They asked me to start to make the coffee next week. I think they want me to try to be more responsible . I don't want the responsibility, but feel I should take this job, for these people have helped me more than I know! Can you emagine, no coffee, when everyone got to our meeting? they would kill me. that is what makes me nervous about taking on the task. 105 days clean/sober and lovin' it! Don't drink and you wont get drunk. bye all, troy c
Member: Troy C
Location: Maryland, USA
Date: June 16, 2003
Time: 12:18 AM
Hello Everyone,Troy ,alcohalic /addict here, Congrad's Kim V to your 7th year. i hope i see 7 years sober in my new way of life. My favorite one liner is,:LIFE IS THE GREATEST "HIGH" OF THEM ALL!<FROM THE ONE DAY AT A TIME BOOK>. I went to my favorite meeting tonight.They asked me to start to make the coffee next week. I think they want me to try to be more responsible . I don't want the responsibility, but feel I should take this job, for these people have helped me more than I know! Can you emagine, no coffee, when everyone got to our meeting? they would kill me. that is what makes me nervous about taking on the task. 105 days clean/sober and lovin' it! Don't drink and you wont get drunk. bye all, troy c
Member: Carlc
Location: nm
Date: June 16, 2003
Time: 01:31 AM
I dont take offense because I get this all the time, because I say the same things in meeting. I love the program of AA and I love alcoholics, and of course I love God, what I totally dislike is all the frothy emotional appeals that seldom suffice, the wrongdoing of others fancied or real have the actual power to kill. I have seen too many people die in AA. This illness took me to the gates of insanity and almost death I was in a rubber room in critical condition for 5 days and lived, 4 days later I was drunk. It was not until someone took me through the steps the way they are outlined in the book, did I become sober. I tried fake it till you make it, let us love you until you can learn to love yourself, I tried 90 and 90, this is real cute if you dont drink you wont get drunk, tell that to an arangatang you will get better results, I tried think think think, that was put up on the wall by a janitor, easy does it is in the family afterward, and there by the grace of God, is one of the most arrogant statements that christianty has ever come up with, in other words you see a poor drunk lying on the street and you repeat that statement you are saying look at me God loves me more than that drunk, because I am sober and he is in the gutter, utter arrogance that statement has nothing to do with the MOST HIGH. The word sponsor in websters says to be responsible for, we read every single days God could and would if he were sought. I would like to meet the person who has that much power to be responsible for antoher persons spiritual journey. I have seen the damage sponsor do in AA these self appointed Gods and thier way of doing things. Bill Wilson was a egomaniac who would have sold this program had it not been for Dr Bob who was the real whose humble spirit saved this program
Member: Jodie H.
Location: Philadelphia, PA
Date: June 16, 2003
Time: 05:17 AM
Carlc, I agree with you in much of what you are saying. I two was taken through the steps the way that they are outlined in the Big Book. I am also agree with your stance on Bill Wilson. However, I find that even though I was fortunate enough to be taken through the steps as they are outlined, I still struggle with spiritual growth. I try to my best to live 10, 11, and 12 daily, I still fall short.
Member: Carrie
Location: Los Angeles
Date: June 16, 2003
Time: 10:12 AM
Carlc - I believe that you love AA, I think it's the human condition that you are not so thrilled about. Humankind is riddled with failures and fraility, but I have to say, from my own experience that I have never seen such love, hope and stuggle than I have in the rooms of AA. We are imperfect creatures just trying to get well and closer to God. We also suffer from a disease of forgetfullness and I for one need all the simple little truths I can get to remind me of the pain I came from and the freedom I have received from the disease of Alcoholism and this God given solution to my life problem. EASY DOES IT CARLC, LET GO AND LET GOD ONE DAY AT A TIME.
Member: Kim D.
Location: Bridgewater
Date: June 16, 2003
Time: 11:17 AM
Hi everyone, Kim here - alcoholic. Oh Boy, did I EVER hate these slogans when I first came to AA. I thought they were useless little cliche's that didn't hold any merit other than to identify people who were "in program." I am happy to report that I was very wrong and have since changed my view. Actually, the slogans or one liners are very valuable tools in my AA tool belt that I can pull out and use when needed. One however, I try and LIVE and that is One Day At A Time. That, to me, is one of the most important concepts in sobriety. One 24 hour period of sobriety - of living the best to my ability - of trying to better myself and not harm others - of living according to God's Will for me. See, I can get all jammed up thinking about all the tomorrows ahead of me and the "what if's" - but everything is much more "doable" if I keep it in the day. Thanks for letting me share.
Member: DODI . Z
Location: CANADA
Date: June 16, 2003
Time: 11:48 AM
hi dodi here alcoholic, sober for the first time for the ???`th time but now i`ve gotten a good job and a decent place to live and with the help of my Hp and AA Iwill live to tell the tale. thanks for being there everyone.....
Member: Manny
Location: Australia
Date: June 16, 2003
Time: 11:49 AM
Carlc, you are "the man." While I'm not 100% total agreement, you're basically correct and I truly appreciate someone having the "kahuna's" to actually say what they mean and mean what they say instead of just parroting the rather idiotic slogans that are generally only half-truths at best. Some are just downright stupid and wrong, and the woman who told you to check your history obviously has no sense of such to make such a ludicrous statement to you. AA itself is only 68 years old and thus doesn't even have much of a "history" and has picked up most of the sayings from other various sources along the way and thus very little in AA is original. God is the One Who makes it work and it's just one of His many, many ways of doing so. That being said, my personal favorite is this one--"AA isn't a complicated program for complicated people, it's a very simple program for very simple people who just like to think they're complicated!"
Member: Funny Manny
Location: I never heard that before
Date: June 16, 2003
Time: 11:52 AM
That being said, my personal favorite is this one--"AA isn't a complicated program for complicated people, it's a very simple program for very simple people who just like to think they're complicated!"
Member: Craig L (Dogmanor@yahoo.com)
Location: Aloha, Oregon
Date: June 16, 2003
Time: 11:56 AM
I had a profound hatred for all those simple slogans, I saw published on walls and heard in the rooms, after all y'all just didn't understand how complex I was. My complexity put me in an alcoholic coma. LOL While I was in the detox unit, I wanted to worry about all the crap I had facing me when I got out. I kept telling myself "One Day at a Time" and "Do the Next Right Thing". That was about all my befuddled mind could handle, until I got a sponsor and began practicing the steps. Today, when I'm getting wound up and tired I know it is time, to "Let Go and Let God"
Member: Pam B - Sobergirl91@hotmail.com
Location: Daytona Beach, FL
Date: June 16, 2003
Time: 01:23 PM
I used to ‘marvel’ at the one-liners & slogans when I was new because they were so profoundly a whole new & different way of thinking for me - & amazed me to see the results & inner-peace I’d have when I’d follow my sponsor’s suggestion to apply this or that one to a situation. Perhaps Carlc & Manny view something else as ‘spiritual growth’ but I apply it as being the amazing miracle of the changes in me from my old ways to the new ones - which take place when I do follow the suggestions of this program as they are given – applying the Principals to all of my affairs – which began as & include applying the Principals behind the one-liners & the slogans. That leaves me amazed (thus knowing I’m before that “half way thru” mark in this lifetime journey of changing & growing spiritually) & always on that pink cloud of AWE (ie Gratitude) to God. For me it’s a natural “high” that holds no comparison to the counterfeit kind of high that booze & drugs had afforded me. Its my conscious contact w/God growing in a deeper & more connected relationship day by day. So ALL of the one-liners/slogans are my favorite. I’d gone thru a period in sobriety that I was really stressed & having a tough time dealing w/life on life’s terms that was happening for me at the time - & desperately wanting help - & I’d feel rage in response to everyone tossing slogans & one-liners at me for the help I was seeking. I felt they were so superficial & people were just spouting them off to hear themselves talk due to having no ES&H to offer me real help. But as Phil mentioned from Step 10 in the 12&12 – when I’m having a problem about any person place or thing – I have to find out what within me is seeing it as that problem to me. It was thru my own continued step work & examining my own inventory & fears behind them that I finally identified the problem within me - & then application of those slogans that I had been rejecting as so 'superficial' were exactly what helped me through & out of the inner turmoil I’d been struggling in. God is Greater than any problem I have – Step 2 & then 3. That one alone has helped me more than any other. Thanks for all the great shares & (((Kerry))) you are right on! :) Thanks. Pam
Member: Tom
Location:
Date: June 16, 2003
Time: 02:08 PM
Half way through Day 1.
Member: Shima
Location: Atlanta, Ga.
Date: June 16, 2003
Time: 02:58 PM
Me too Tom!! we can do it.
Member:
Location:
Date: June 16, 2003
Time: 03:48 PM
((TOM)) Half way toward day 2 keep on keeping on.
Member: L-RAY
Location: SCOTLAND
Date: June 16, 2003
Time: 05:37 PM
(((Tom)))(((Shima))) doing well your on your way! what a journey you are going to have! Regards L-Ray mclaren.landscapes@ntlworld.com
Member: Bitsey
Location: Nowhere right now
Date: June 16, 2003
Time: 06:01 PM
Well here I am again crazy as a loon. I have been back out for I don't know how long after 2 yrs of sobriety. George Thoughourgoods I Drink Alone isn't my favorite one line but what i seem to be living by. I make it a day or two- thank God for the sober day and BAM right back at it. i am frustrated and disgusted with myself and don't know haw to break the pattern. I know I need to get my butt to a meeting but keep thinking I will wait for thirty days so I don't have to raise my hand......Whats the def of insanity? Trying the same thing over and over expecting a different result!!!! Jeez what a sick puppy. I hold the thought the only requirement is a DESIRE to quit drinking. So tonight maybe I can drag my butt to the beginners meeting instead of the liquor store on the way home. Am glad this site is here. Please keep me in your thoughts today!
Member: angie m
Location: orange county california
Date: June 16, 2003
Time: 06:16 PM
i kinda like where ever i go there i am..... and i like the ...keep it simple.....and i like ....oh i like em all.... every second that passes theres a moment for change something like that..... or how about whats a nice girl like you doing at a place like this...lol
Member: Mike H.
Location: Jackson MI.
Date: June 16, 2003
Time: 06:56 PM
With my body sick and run down, my mind running at 90 miles an hour, the only thing that seemed to register was the one-liners. After being sober awhile I began to think that they were stupid. Now I thank God they were and are there when I need them. My favorite: Keep it simple stupid!!!!!!!
Member: Les
Location: San Diego
Date: June 16, 2003
Time: 07:58 PM
Here are the things that were told to me when I first came to AA and that I subsequently found to be true. AA is not a self-help program. If we could help ourselves we would have no need for AA. AA is not a religious program, but is spiritual in nature. There are two aspects of AA: the Fellowship and the Program. The Fellowship is a very powerful thing and is sufficient to keep some of us sober. Most of us however are of the hopeless variety of alcoholic and to acquire and retain sobriety require the profound change, which comes from taking the Steps of AA. Being of the hopeless and real variety of alcoholic it was suggested in very certain terms that I take each and every Step in the order they are presented following the directions contained in the book, “Alcoholics Anonymous.” Furthermore, I should find someone who had taken the Steps and seemed to be living a life “happy, joyous and free” and ask that person for help. I found someone, asked and he became my “sponsor.” Together we read the Big Book and followed the directions for taking the Steps as best we could. The more experienced members of AA also suggested that I attend AA Meetings on a regular basis as often as I drank. Not only should I attend Meetings frequently, but also I should acquire and fulfill commitments at these Meetings. Wash the coffee cups (some Meetings still had glass cups at that time), make coffee, mind the literature, greet people, be a secretary or treasurer, GSR or Intergroup Rep. anything would do. Talk to people newer than I. Not only give my phone number to new comers but get their numbers and call them. Having done what was suggested I continue to do what was suggested, to the best of my ability, and my life has become wonderful. I now live “happy, joyous and free.” With diligence and willingness you can do the same. I wish whoever reads this luck in gaining and maintaining sobriety. DON'T DRINK!
Member:
Location:
Date: June 16, 2003
Time: 10:21 PM
to manny down under....who said it was a "woman"? There for the grace of god go i......carlc is entitled to his thoughts and they are based on his experience......everybody,s is different.....that one liner tells me that god called and for once in my life i heard the call and was open to it.....thats how i became a recovering alcoholic.......if it weren,t for that grace i would not be here.....that grace is available to every living breathing human being on the planet....whether they do drugs....alcohol.....or what ever other vice they may have......it is only when we are beaten to a pulp that we maybe listen....maybe being the operative word.......thats what makes the difference between me and the drunk in the gutter.....i stopped doing it my way because it wasn,t working anymore.......some people hear that quiet call on the inside .....its in us all.....if we turn down the noise.....so to carlc......i appreciate your sharing...thats what makes life interesting and what a boring world it would be if we were all the same......
Member:
Location:
Date: June 17, 2003
Time: 12:17 AM
To Jodie from Phiadelphia, I too struggle with this spiritual way of life. I think it was Bill Wilson who said that AA was a spiritual kindergarten, that is why I have only a daily reprieve contingent on my spiritual condition which can change at any time because the root of my problem is me, my little plans and disigns, That is why steps 10,11,and 12 are so important for my spirtitual well being, also when you enter the spiritual realm which is the fourth dimension their is spiritual warfare, that is why I need this higher power and the program of AA which was I believe without a shadow of a doubt Divinely inspired.
Member: Carlc
Location: nm
Date: June 17, 2003
Time: 12:18 AM
To Jodie from Phiadelphia, I too struggle with this spiritual way of life. I think it was Bill Wilson who said that AA was a spiritual kindergarten, that is why I have only a daily reprieve contingent on my spiritual condition which can change at any time because the root of my problem is me, my little plans and disigns, That is why steps 10,11,and 12 are so important for my spirtitual well being, also when you enter the spiritual realm which is the fourth dimension their is spiritual warfare, that is why I need this higher power and the program of AA which was I believe without a shadow of a doubt Divinely inspired.
Member: Carlc
Location: nm
Date: June 17, 2003
Time: 12:52 AM
To Jodie from Philadelphia, I think is was Bill Wilson who said that AA was a spiritual kindergarten and I too have a hard time trying to live by spiritual principles on a day to day basis I suffer from all the frailties that come with being a human being, that why I have only a daily reprive contingent on my spirtual condition which can change at any time because the root of my problem is me, my little plans and designs. I wont go too much into this but when you enter the fourth dimesion which is the realm in which Gods will is fulfilled there is also spiritual warfare, that is why trying to do the right thing because it is the right thing to do instead of doing the right thing so that God will send you to heaven is so hard. Also I apologize if this double post something is wrong with this computer or maybe its just me I am fairly new with computers.
Member: Carlc
Location: nm
Date: June 17, 2003
Time: 12:52 AM
To Jodie from Philadelphia, I think is was Bill Wilson who said that AA was a spiritual kindergarten and I too have a hard time trying to live by spiritual principles on a day to day basis I suffer from all the frailties that come with being a human being, that why I have only a daily reprive contingent on my spirtual condition which can change at any time because the root of my problem is me, my little plans and designs. I wont go too much into this but when you enter the fourth dimesion which is the realm in which Gods will is fulfilled there is also spiritual warfare, that is why trying to do the right thing because it is the right thing to do instead of doing the right thing so that God will send you to heaven is so hard. Also I apologize if this double post something is wrong with this computer or maybe its just me I am fairly new with computers.
Member: Phil S.
Location: Michigan
Date: June 17, 2003
Time: 09:20 AM
Hi! I'm Phil. I'm an alcoholic. The "One Day at a Time" method, has slowly but surely, made sense to me. My best wishes to you all.
Member:
Location:
Date: June 17, 2003
Time: 10:26 AM
angiem--Cali---cute, made me laugh!!! Thanks! mikeh.-mis.--cool, you're right, just because they're stupid doesn't mean they don't work when they need to!!!
Member:
Location:
Date: June 17, 2003
Time: 10:29 AM
angiem--Cali---cute, made me laugh!!! Thanks! mikeh.-mis.--cool, you're right, just because they're stupid doesn't mean they don't work when they need to!!!
Member: Manny
Location: Down Under
Date: June 17, 2003
Time: 10:33 AM
Deepest and most sincere prayers out to "bitsey," you got 'em man. Or young lady, whatever the case may be. Hang in there, we know you can do it, give yourself a chance, all those "sayings" are for you right now and my heart is moved by your plea. You're my "prayer priority" and I hope you check back in to tell us how you are. Peace and Blessings........
Member: robert j
Location: angel beach
Date: June 17, 2003
Time: 12:11 PM
At first I thought the slogans were moronic,then as time went by I started to get a deeper understanding of them,they truly are IMO what Bill and Bob were talking about when they suggested we keep this thing "simple",one of my favorite sayings in AA is Don't Give Up Before The Miracle Happens,take care.
Member: Tom
Location:
Date: June 17, 2003
Time: 01:50 PM
half way through day 2.
Member: angie m
Location: costa mesa california
Date: June 17, 2003
Time: 01:59 PM
To whom ever it was that i made laugh .... (ya didn't put your name on the top of your paper ...lol) but regardless i am happy to know that i made ya laugh .... laughing to me is one of my greatest joys in life ..... i agree about thinking these sayings were stupid well not so much stupid but TOTALLY corney.... and just to fluffy for someone as cool as me ... dont cha know..... but then after me getting loaded at 45 days into being clean ... and me starting back from day 1 and feeling hopeless and lost... damn it if them corney ass little ass little sayings ... didn't come into play and give me alot of hope ..... "one day at a time " "keep it simple" because i began to get all overwhelmed that there was so much i needed to do and oh my god maybe i would never get it ... "do the next indicated thing" "thy will be done" anyways .... and still my favorite was ..."your place or mine ??? " not really lol but seriously just because we think we are too good or too cool for these simple little sayings doesnt mean they don't work .... it's sjust like this program it's so simple ... but we leave it alcoholics and we can always try and ruin a good thing ..... so like the sayings , hate the sayings, love the sayings ... really it doesn't matter its all personal opinion.... but don't knock em for the next fella ... leave it to them to discover that they might like these corney ass little slogans for themselves .....
Member: Sara K.
Location: San Diego
Date: June 17, 2003
Time: 02:00 PM
Hello everyone! Well I'm VERY new to all of this, where can I find these one liners so I may read and contribute?
Member: angie m
Location: costa mesa california
Date: June 17, 2003
Time: 02:41 PM
hi sara k .... welcome ..... and i dont know where you can read them at .... but if you start going to aa meetings or if you have gone to them already its the little sayings you here all the time in the meetings or theres a few in the big book... "easy does it " "keep coming back" stuff like that .... i see were neighbors ...hi there neighbor...
Member: Kelly M
Location: NH
Date: June 17, 2003
Time: 02:54 PM
Hi Sara K., I found these one liners in AA meetings and the slogans are usually hanging on the wall. My Favorite one liner is: I can't, he can, I think I'll let him. I also like this little quote I hear in meetings all the time because it is so true. If you put a cucumber in the brine it turns into a pickle. Once a pickle it can never go back to being a cucumber again... Peace. Kelly
Member: Sara K.
Location: San Diego
Date: June 17, 2003
Time: 03:03 PM
Angie & Kelly -- Thank you both! I really like the cucumber one also. I'm gonna write that one down. and Angie-Hi neighbor!!
Member: angie m
Location: orange county california
Date: June 17, 2003
Time: 03:07 PM
hey ((sara)) ya know i have no idea what your talking about .... about the (((("CUCUMBER")))) one ... but hey sounds good ta me too...lol j/k hee hee rebos_n_cali@yahoo.com
Member: kENY C
Location: BATON ROUGE LA
Date: June 17, 2003
Time: 09:41 PM
Any tips on working step 2?
Member: angie k
Location: nj
Date: June 17, 2003
Time: 10:16 PM
hi there everyone, a great one liner....'keep it simple' or more locally 'keep it simple, stupid'....i used to wonder what it meant......... I could complicate going to sleep!!!!!!!!......it took me a while to figure it out......when i really began to just listen to those few simple words they took on a new meaning.....simply put....take it easy...relax the brain a little...don't worry so much, that every thing would be o.k. It took a while for the one liners to become familiar but now I love them....they have saved me many times at a moments notice.....Welcome to the newer people....my prayers to you......
Member:
Location:
Date: June 17, 2003
Time: 10:32 PM
There's nothing to really do for step 2----go on to step 3 and get to work pal........
Member: Bitsey
Location: Calif
Date: June 18, 2003
Time: 12:40 AM
I am here and sober today! Thank you Manny your priority prayers must be working! Taped "One day at a time " and "No more lost days"on my sealing above my bed last night. So day 2. I need this site. Thanks to you all.
Member: ...
Location: ...
Date: June 18, 2003
Time: 12:45 AM
......
Member: Stacy
Location: West coast
Date: June 18, 2003
Time: 01:05 AM
I was just thinking to myself today how much I have grown to appreciate the slogans. My head runs out of control a lot of the time. My anxities and emotions get crazy. I have found that when I'm feeling out of control I can use one of the slogans to help bring me back to Earth. Key to my daily sobriety are the serenity prayer, "one day at a time" and "first things first." These little tools help me so much. Day 72. Tough day, but not drinking. Take care.
Member: bee
Location: PA
Date: June 18, 2003
Time: 06:42 AM
I have read this site but am relatively new to posting. I don't have anything to add except that all the clubbiness and "stupid sayings" of the club were offputting to me. I say this only to suggest to you that for a newcomer, they are simpleminded, and I would like to find some depth in them someday. In the meantime, does anyone have any legitimate medical websites that talk about detox? I mean physical withdrawals symptoms in particular? My friend is about to shake herself to death, can't sleep, and I am scared silly. She was pushed into a rehab once willfully by her family, once by the police, and both times she left, and now she is with me because they won't have her back. She has a bench warrant against her in another state for a DUI. I don't know what I am up against. I am afraid of this. Sorry, but I just need a website or something to help me get her into a better place. I am struggling with my own problems, and I am making progress, but now this is bringing me so far down. She is still drinking heavily, but mostly on the sly. Thanks for listening.
Member: angie k
Location: nj
Date: June 18, 2003
Time: 08:26 AM
bee...she is so lucky to have a great friend like you.....she hasn,t gotten it but at least she has you......she must hit bottom and hasn,t yet......a great slogan.......look down at your feet....this is where you are......helped me a lot..... when my head is racing a friend told me to imagine abunch of galloping horses...then mentally pull the reigns to slow them to a halt.....you can do that with your thinking.......reign in those thoughts.......and thats all they are....runaway thoughts........i'll pray for you and your friend....her for an awakening so she can begin her journey back.....and you for your gift of sobriety because you are witnessing first hand where it took you before you surrendered.......god bless you both
Member: AA member
Location: MI
Date: June 18, 2003
Time: 09:08 AM
I'm an alcoholic, a sober one too. (Keny C.) my humble advice; go to AA meetings regularly, find yourself a home group, ask someone to be your sponsor, read step two in the Big Book (buy one), ask your sponsor to help you with step two, suggest step two as a discussion topic at the meetings, Good Luck!! (bee), my humble advice; you are good hearted, are you an AA member? get yourself to a meeting, bring this topic up for discussion, you'll get answers I'm sure, you have to stay sober yourself and for yourself, you can't carry the burden of enabling another active alcoholic to destroy all in and around them, you know that. She has the right to "bottom out" on her own. You'll have to part company with her. You don't need a website. Call the AA hotline and get some help for yourself and for her (if she has the desire to stop drinking of course). Remember, Recovery or Insanity or Death. That's the message for us all.
Member: robert j
Location: angel beach
Date: June 18, 2003
Time: 09:11 AM
Bee,I had a friend who swore he needed to get alcohol in his system while in withdrawls,to prevent siezures,I refused to buy any,so he drank mouthwash,cologne,aftershave anything with an alcohol content,cops would'nt EPC him,treatment centers would'nt touch him.Finally a Dr. realized he was poisoning himself,he was in intensive care for 8 days,after that we got him into a halfway house,we heard from him a few times,said he was doin good.I feel your frustration,
Member: Terry
Location: NY
Date: June 18, 2003
Time: 10:00 AM
Bee, the sad truth is that you cannot help your friend if she does not want to stop drinking. The decision has to come from her and her alone. I'm sure it must be painful to watch someone you care about drink themselves to death but you have to understand that you cannot control another person's actions, only your own. On that note, for those of you who remember my earlier postings (if any of you) I wanted to say that I am doing great in Rational Recovery and want to pass along the info to those of you who have washed out in AA more than once as I did that there IS another way! I only mention it here because I learned about it on this website. For those of you who are looking for another way, go to the Rational Recovery website. It is just as easy to find as this one. For those of you who are doing well in AA and are staying sober and like the AA life, more power to you. If it works stick with it. I am not anti- AA, I just couldn't do it. Now I feel like I have my life back and I am very happy. I don't go to meetings, I don't have a sponser, I don't work any 12 steps, which for me might as well have been a million and 12 steps. I just have complete confidence that I will never drink again and I will never change my mind. My life is my own now.
Member: Julie M
Location: Alva, Fl
Date: June 18, 2003
Time: 10:30 AM
Hi Everyone Jules here. I like these corny little slogans. I live one day at a time and this is working for me. I always have tried to make everything my way now I am slowly learning Let Go Let God and this is making a major change in my attitude and life. My control let me drink and get a DUI; His control makes me happy to be sober and see things I never had time to pay attention too. At least for today I am sober and not drinking and driving to kill some innocent person or myself. God makes all things possible and I do believe most things happen for a reason. Thanks for letting me share.
Member:
Location:
Date: June 18, 2003
Time: 10:44 AM
TERRY~ No one but God has complete confidence, obviously the "One day at a time" was to tough for you, in which case you will drink again I am afraid. A well wisher
Member: Another AA member
Location:
Date: June 18, 2003
Time: 01:13 PM
Your ego is keeping you away from the reality of this disease, because the disease needs another drink, and Terry, I do assure you, the day will come. At the very, very bottom, it is not about AA or RR or anything else, it is about control. A true alcoholic needs a spiritual solution to the spiritual part of the disease. That's why RR recoveries are "sobriety with a shelf life." AA begins with honesty and expands from there. RR begins and ends with control. AA works for those who understand and practice the principles. It fails with so many people because so many people do not have the courage to live a life of rigorous honesty. The statement "I am confident that I will never drink again" implies knowledge of the future; honesty says that we do not know the future. It's true, the "one day at a time" method only sounds simple, it is in fact very profound and requires humility, a spiritual concept that asks for courage and honesty. "One day at a time" truly is too tough for some people to grasp. The rewards are tremendous but they, too, are difficult to explain to a closed mind. Honesty, open-mindedness and willingess are indeed the requirements for freedom from active addiction.
Member: JT
Location: Florida
Date: June 18, 2003
Time: 05:06 PM
Hello All, I'm Jay an I'm an alcoholic. I've been sober since May 16th (including detox & rehab). My question is this...My wife and I went to our respective AA and Al Anon meetings last Friday I met a young man who suggested we go to some meetings together as we might have someone we knew in the program.. I went to pick him up for an AA OD meeting yesterday (I have the vehicle & license) and when he got into my truck he smelled of alcohol, couldn't finish a sentence and kept nodding out during the meeting. How far should a newly sober guy (or any recovering alcoholic)go to extend their hand to someone who is "still suffering" ? Thanks
Member: Bee
Location: PA
Date: June 18, 2003
Time: 05:59 PM
Thanks to you Angie, Robert, , and Terry for your insights. I think what you are telling me is that I can't change the situation, and it might be in my own interests and hers too, to force an ultimatum....i.e., stop drinking or get out of my home. I have a lot riding on this period in my life too, and I guess I am choosing a different path. When she screams at me that I am just a "pain in the ass", I think I know which way I have to keep going.
Member: Kerry C
Location: Texas
Date: June 18, 2003
Time: 10:00 PM
I guess I could say I like "One Day at a Time" as well. It has been 90 consecutive ODAT's since my last drink of alcohol. Thanks to God whom I pray to several times daily; 6 meetings a week, following the clear cut directions in the Big Book, and working with my sponsor as well as other alcoholics. So if anyone wants to know how to do it, that has certainly worked for me.
Member: CIS
Location: 100 miles from no where
Date: June 18, 2003
Time: 10:16 PM
Where do you start? You know that you should not, you make promises that you will not, your doctor tell you that you can not, yet guess what...???? you do!!!!! You promise yourself and you drink, you promise others and you drink, you tell your doctor WHO ME? and you drink....and then you drnk some more. You don'e enjoy it too much any more, you are not the life of the party because you have run out of lines, you are now fat and the list goes on and what do you do???? You drink. I guess my one liner would be "Where insanity stops, sanity begins." Insanity hasn't stopped for me yet, but I keep trying, so I guess my next one line is ONE MINUTE AT A TIME.
Member:
Location:
Date: June 18, 2003
Time: 10:23 PM
I'll NEVER drink again and I have total confidence in Him who gave me the ability to say that!!!!!!
Member: Manny
Location: Aussie
Date: June 18, 2003
Time: 10:27 PM
Thanks for lettin us know how you're doin Bitsey, but listen something's been eatin at me. Is your name Bitsey or is that a nickname?? I know God knows for the purposes of my prayers who you are, but I'm not so all-knowing so do tell, please????
Member:
Location:
Date: June 18, 2003
Time: 10:28 PM
Alcohol Damages Day-To-Day Memory Function Alcoholism / Substance Abuse Join these forum conversations • Is there anyone like me? • Something to worryaboutorjustamistake? • Methadone and Pregnancy -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Most Recent Articles • Losing Brain Cells -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- About Alcoholism Subscribe to the Free Newsletter Your Email Address: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Heavy Drinkers Make Significantly More Memory Mistakes Research has shown that heavy alcohol use clearly damages retrospective memory, that is, the learning, retention and retrieval of previously presented materials. Less is known about the effects of alcohol on day-to-day memory function, specifically, prospective memory, remembering to do things at some future point in time, and everyday memory, remembering to complete daily activities. A study in the June 2003 issue of Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research uses internet-based methodology to find that heavy alcohol consumption has a negative impact on day-to-day memory. "Prospective memory impairments include things like forgetting to send someone a birthday card on time, or forgetting what you're going to say in the middle of a sentence," said Jonathan Ling, a senior lecturer in psychology at the University of Teesside in the United Kingdom and first author of the paper. Advertisement "Everyday memory failures include telling someone a story that you've told them before, or forgetting where things are normally kept. Obviously we all forget things from time to time, however, heavy users of alcohol make noticeably more of these mistakes than either non- or low-users of alcohol." Ling added that most of what is known about heavy drinkers' retrospective memory function is based on laboratory research, and even less is known about alcohol's effects on normal memory-related tasks that people perform from day to day. For this study, researchers collected data from 763 participants (465 female, 298 males) using a specially created website on the University of Westminster web server. Memory was assessed using two self-report questionnaires: the Prospective Memory Questionnaire (PMQ), and the Everyday Memory Questionnaire (EMQ). The PMQ has three sub-scales that measure short-term habitual PM, long-term episodic PM, and internally cued PM. Respondents also self-reported their level of use of alcohol and other drugs by responding to the UEL (University of East London) Recreational Drug Use Questionnaire. The results indicate a dose-dependent effect of alcohol use on day-to-day memory function. "We found that heavy users of alcohol reported making consistently more errors than those who said that they consumed little or no alcohol," said Ling. "A typical heavy user of alcohol reported over 30 percent more memory-related problems than someone who reportedly did not drink, and almost 25 percent more problems than those who stated they drank only small amounts of alcohol. More specifically, those participants who reported higher levels of alcohol consumption were more likely to miss appointments, forget birthdays and pay bills on time. Deficits in everyday memory included problems with remembering whether they had done something, like locking the door or switching off the lights or oven, or forgetting where they put items like house keys." Colin R. Martin, a lecturer in mental health in the department of health sciences at the University of York, and honorary consultant psychologist to the Addiction Service and National Monitoring and Evaluation Center of the Salvation Army, said these results "contribute to the increasing evidence base that a diverse range of memory impairment is associated with excessive alcohol consumption. This study is important because it extends our knowledge of alcohol-related memory impairment to everyday situations that most people can identify with, in contrast to laboratory-based memory tasks." "We also found a significant increase in reported memory problems by people who claimed to drink between 10 and 25 units each week in comparison to non-drinkers," added Ling. "This is an important finding, as it indicates that even if people are using alcohol within the limits suggested by U.K. government guidelines, these individuals still report experiencing memory problems."
Member: Carlos
Location: Capital City
Date: June 18, 2003
Time: 10:30 PM
Terry, where ya at in NY??? Up near the capital district by me by any chance?? I don't think they have rational recovery here or do you know?? I've been sober a number of years and know I'll never drink again as well, I'm interested in RR for other various reasons, could ya help me out and let me know something please?
Member: Carlos
Location: Capital City
Date: June 18, 2003
Time: 10:31 PM
Terry, where ya at in NY??? Up near the capital district by me by any chance?? I don't think they have rational recovery here or do you know?? I've been sober a number of years and know I'll never drink again as well, I'm interested in RR for other various reasons, could ya help me out and let me know something please?
Member: Hillary
Location: with Billy-boy
Date: June 18, 2003
Time: 10:59 PM
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is an American icon, the great hope of mainstream society that mass addiction will subside. AA is seemingly immune to criticism and public scrutiny. Very few people, including public officials who actively support the AA cartel, have actually read AA doctrinal literature, or even the list of the Twelve Steps, which are obviously religious. Even fewer have sat down in a typical meeting of the recovery group movement, to observe the indoctrination of newcomers into the ideology of powerlessness, helplessness, and dependence. AA sows the seeds of addiction before itself, then poses as a solution as it advances. AA shows the friendly side of tyranny, fronting honorable values to the public and media, while imposing its will upon addicted people behind closed doors. Their methods of indoctrination are an offense to common decency, with the result that many pay tribute to AA even while their own addictions progress toward despair and death. AA has found a niche in the dark side of the human psyche, and made it into a lair from which it preys on human vulnerabilities. 1. By speaking out against AA, you will warn others to stay away from recovery groups of all kinds, and thus prevent harm to addicted people. Recovery groups create an illusion of hope during desperate times. You will also be encouraging addicted people that they can do the obvious - quit their addictions once and for all, rather than adopt the foolishness of abstaining one-day-at-a-time. Most addicted people recover on their own, and we must expect and encourage them to do so. AA doesn't believe in people at all. They believe in AA. When people improve, they must praise AA and never take credit themselves. America must start believing in people, not programs, so that addicted people may finally shoulder a burden that no society can - the burden of self-recovery from substance addictions. By speaking out against AA, you will put the helping professions, particularly medicine, on notice that they have already committed a grave offense against the society they were sanctioned to protect. They have accepted money to perform services they are not qualified to perform. There is no treatment, medical or otherwise, for addiction, for there is no disease. This was well-known among the professions until rivers of tax dollars gushed forth, and those who were licensed to bill stole. The professionals may eventually be forgiven for this ethical catastrophe, but not until they have admitted they were wrong. 2. If you love your country, speak out against AA. America is a unique society in human history, built on values of individualism, self-reliance, moral virtues, personal liberty, justice, and religious freedom. What appears to be a fellowship of recovered people offering encouragement to addicted people is actually the drug culture of America between their own drinking and using episodes. These are not the kind of people from whom to seek help of any kind. They are not recovered from their own addictions, and admit this freely. They have abandoned their own family values for the ersatz religion of AA. They have renamed the ultimate self-indulgence, addiction, a "disease," and accordingly do not know right from wrong. The group norms are sharply at odds with religious values, moral intuitions, and traditional mental health concepts.
Member:
Location:
Date: June 18, 2003
Time: 11:58 PM
hilary........ONLY ABSOLUTE IGNORANCE COULD BE SO CONCEITED AND FURTHER FROM THE TRUTH......GO SIT IN AT A FEW MEETINGS AND THEN COME BACK AND GIVE US AN UPDATE........THE TROUBLE WITH PEOPLE WITH OPINIONS LIKE YOURS IS THAT THEY HAVE A GOOD KNOWLEDGE OF THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND SOMEWHAT OF A BRAIN BUT DONT KNOW HOW TO USE COMMON BASIC LOGIC.....IF YOU WERE HALF AS SMART AS YOU THINK YOU ARE YOU WOULDN'T BE ON THIS SITE.......ITS FOR RECOVERING ALCOHOLICS......NO ONE ELSE......MAYBE YOU ARE COMING TO TERMS WITH A PROBLEM OF YOUR OWN? IN THAT CASE... KEEP COMING.......
Member: Diane
Location: Oklahoma
Date: June 19, 2003
Time: 12:31 AM
thank you for the post on the memory loss and Drinking I printed that out. Now I'm back and tried to read most all of this except the one that knocks AA cause it's working for me. I like the saying (((When your sick and tired of being sick and tired))) now today is my birthday June 18th real birthday that is lol now I am sober 85 days today and proud of it. glad to be back, I've been gone to see my Dad and did enjoy most all the post
Member: Diane
Location: Oklahoma
Date: June 19, 2003
Time: 12:35 AM
oh yeah someone on here said they did not mean to post so many that there computer was messed up and they was new to computer, (((Just don't hit your refresh button))) close down this site and pull it back and you won't triple post
Member: Kelly M
Location: NH
Date: June 19, 2003
Time: 12:42 AM
HAPPY BIRTHDAY DIANE!!! and many more sober ones to come. Congrats on ((85)) days! Awesome to see you back. Kelly
Member: Carlc
Location: nm
Date: June 19, 2003
Time: 01:44 AM
Hilary you are obviously very well read and very articulate in the way you speak but bullshit is bullshit whether it comes from a drunk, a junkie, a politician, a TV evangelist or a Rhodes Scholar you try to mask your real agenda with a beautiful use of the engish language but your words speak volumes by what you say and dont say. Your agenda is quite obvious and quite dark. You dont fool as many people as you wjould like to think.
Member:
Location:
Date: June 19, 2003
Time: 02:15 AM
likes men women small appliances fruits and vegetables and woodland creatures.
Member: Trace
Location:
Date: June 19, 2003
Time: 04:32 AM
Oh Hilary if only you had that much power over me LOL!
Member: Maggie
Location: IL
Date: June 19, 2003
Time: 07:53 AM
Hi all, Maggie here, alcohoic. Wow. So much flack (in earlier posts)about such easy words. Carlc. and Manny, why get so bent out of shape over these "ONE-LINERS" if they have helped or even saved someones life? to this acoholic, selfishness is what I'm hearing. "Live and Let Live"! Grateful to be sober today. Love to all, Maggie
Member: Kelly M
Location: NH
Date: June 19, 2003
Time: 08:04 AM
Hillary, You obviously are not an alcoholic. If AA is a niche market in the dark side of the human psyche....what the hell is the dark side of our human psyche exactly??? AA meetings are lairs where unsuspecting alcoholics go and are exposed to that awful thing called HOPE! Your a big lie Hillary and definately not an alcoholic. Only a non- alcoholic would give the advice that most addicted people recover on their own.... Sorry hon, just doesn't happen that way as much as we would like it too. Why not go post on an OA board about how easy it is to give up cake. You QUACK me up...... >>>AA has found a niche in the dark side of the human psyche, and made it into a lair from which it preys on human vulnerabilities. 1. By speaking out against AA, you will warn others to stay away from recovery groups of all kinds, and thus prevent harm to addicted people. Recovery groups create an illusion of hope during desperate times. You will also be encouraging addicted people that they can do the obvious - quit their addictions once and for all, rather than adopt the foolishness of abstaining one-day-at-a-time. Most addicted people recover on their own>>>
Member: Beth H.
Location: Turtle Island
Date: June 19, 2003
Time: 08:25 AM
Morning all. Back to this site after a long miserable Canadian winter. How did I cope with the disappearance of the sun at 4 in the afternoon every day? A nice cozy drink. Then about eight more, then I passed out and wet the bed. I think my husband hates me, and I'm damn sure my son deserves a better mother than I am right now. (Could he be my HP??) One of the slogans I'm keeping in mind right now is "Fake it until you make it". I'm hoping that if I ACT like a sober person (i.e. don't drink) I will eventually BECOME a sober person. Another one-liner I've found helpful, although I didn't hear it in AA, is "NOW is the only thing that's real". This was essential to my recovery from paralyzing agoraphobia. Instead of remembering the terrible panic attacks of the past, and anticipating the ones in the future, I just floated through the present moment and whatever it had to offer me. Maybe I can apply it to my alcoholism. I'm going to be bold today, and dare to promise myself a shame-free few hours. Thanks for all your posts, they really help.
Member: Just Because
Location: GODS HQ
Date: June 19, 2003
Time: 08:47 AM
(((BETH)))
Member: Terry
Location: NY
Date: June 19, 2003
Time: 09:33 AM
Hillary, I could not have said it better myself and I congratulate you on your bravery and willingness to speak out against AA. I do believe it is a group of religious fanatics who have harmed many more than they ever helped. When I wrote my little note yesterday saying I had found another way to quit drinking and was now a happy person notice that instead of getting congratulations from the other members here I got a lecture on how I will "fail" because I did not succeed through the AA method. Remind anyone of those Jehovah's Witnesses who used to come knocking on our doors telling us that no matter what other world religion we belonged to or what kind of God we worshipped that if we weren't one of them that we were going straight to hell? I am a person who belives in personal responsibility and independent thinking. I do not believe that the abuse of alcohol or any other substance is a "disease." Does a person who quit smoking years ago still have the "disease" of "smokism?" Does a once obese person who ate uncontrollably but has now eshewed junk food in favor of a healthier diet still have "potato chipism?" I am no more powerless over alcohol than I am over chocolate or donuts or any other thing I chose in the past to over indulge in. I just needed to learn why I couldn't seem to control my alcohol intake and how to finally take control of my actions and overcome my addiction. It's no "cunning, baffling" mystery either. As I said earlier, if AA works for you and you like it, fine, stick with it. But don't let AA tell you that their way is the ONLY way and all others either weren't "really" alcoholics (bullcrap, I know what I was) or that all other methods are "doomed to failure." That is an outright lie. Note to "Carlos:" Rational Recovery isn't a group that you join like AA. Go to the website and order the book. For an investment of $15.00 plus $6.00 for rush delivery you can be free of your addiction forever and never have to spend the rest of your life in endless meetings. Do what you WANT to with your free time. I call that the bargain of a lifetime!
Member: Joe P
Location: Chicago
Date: June 19, 2003
Time: 10:19 AM
The “Hillary” post is really on the Rational Recovery website at http://www.rational.org/speak.out.html . It was cut and paste here. Cut and paste under a fictitious name requires absolutely no courage whatsoever. Terry NY – This is an AA meeting online. Notice that you are still free to post here. Go to Jack Trimpey’s site and try to post pro-AA material and see what happens. He will censor you (Jack says so on his site). So who wants to control you - Jack Trimpey, that's who. He’d probably even question why you come here? To bash AA? Jack says you need to bash AA in order to recover (read his message boards if you doubt me). How silly. Did you come here for some sort of recognition or validation? Ask dear old Jack about THAT! Did you come here to “carry the RR message”? How like AA of you. (((Everybody)))! Don’t drink and go to meetings. Joe P.
Member: Terry
Location: NY
Date: June 19, 2003
Time: 11:39 AM
Point taken, Joe P. But please notice that I stressed in my post that IF AA works for you then fine, stick with it. It's just a fact of life that AA doesn't work for everyone and there is nothing wrong to my mind with letting people know that there are other very successful methods available. Lets face it, most people don't log on to this site because they are facinated with the AA doctrine and want to study it more in depth. They log on here because they are desperate for help and assume like I did at first that AA is the only game in town. AA has a right to promote itself and it's ideology as does any other organization, but those here should ask themselves, is AA more interested in helping people to quit drinking no matter what works for them, or is it more about just promoting AA? There is nothing wrong with checking out RR either and deciding it is not for you. It's all about options.
Member: Kim D.
Location: Bridgewater
Date: June 19, 2003
Time: 12:00 PM
((Beth)) Welcome back. You are so right... NOW is all we have. Great going on making NOW a sober one... ((JT)) Good question, and the fact that you are bringing it up must mean there are red flags going off somewhere. I equate the early days of sobriety as learning how to swim in the "sea of life." There you are, strugglilng and swimming and making every effort to stay afloat in this new sober world. Hanging around an active alcoholic - someone who is still struggling - is like trying to learn how to swim with a weight around your neck. ((JT)) This doesn't mean that we don't help the one suffering, but help can mean pointing him in the direction of members in your group who are experienced in 12 Step calls and have some more time under their belts. I wish you and your friend the best. Oh yeah, this is just MY opinion. Others may see it differently... ;-)
Member: Diane
Location: Oklahoma
Date: June 19, 2003
Time: 12:14 PM
so much negative stuff here about the AA program..... (Why don't we all just work together and stay sober) is that not our goal??????? I like the slogans heck most of the World today is slogans we read signs every where we go. There was a song once it went ((((signs signs every where signs))) I can't remember at the moment who wrote that but I liked that song....I most of of love it when I get good information about the (bad effects) of Alcohol cause for me, I like to know when I take a vitamin, what it is doing for me and when I stop a bad habit, I love to know what that bad habit was hurting in my body.... for me, I wish that booze would just disappear off the face of the earth. Drugs that are bad also......I live with a Son who has bad problems with Crank and he drinks....He is such a handsome Man but I'm afraid if he don't wake up soon he will turn ugly and old before his time....God Bless you all and I pray a Sober and drug free life for you all....Day 86 sober,,,,, thank you Kelly for the sweet Birthday wish, Did you know Paul McCartney of the Beatles Birthday is on June 18th??? Diane
Member: Bob B
Location: Vanderbilt, Mi
Date: June 19, 2003
Time: 12:45 PM
How very sad to see so many that have not used the 12 steps to recover. It is so obvious when they take the liberty of bad mouthing what has worked for everyone who has taken the steps. I wonder what will be their response to the God of the Universe when he holds them accountable for trying to stop other peoples' sobriety. I read in a book once that there are only 2 sins; 1 to stand in the spiritual path of another, 2 to stand in our own spiritual path. People are dying daily from addictions and then some wise old owl comes in here and says it does no good to try? My one liner is "there but for the grace of God, go I". Of course I had to acknowledge that I wasn't God and that there really is one and that I had no power but he does. I had to be "HUMBLE" and honest. These came by following the directions of a group of drunks that succeeded where none had before. Not angry and bitter drunks, but those interested in lending a helping hand to someone in need. I think they refer to them as "Good Samaritans". I am alive, well and sober 20 years thanks to them. For all others who want it, the way is clear, easy and simple, and it is called the AA way, as described in the book "Alcoholics Anonymous". If you are new and wonder what to do with such conflicting posts ask yourself one question; which of these folks do you want to be like? Ask that person how they got what they have for a life. Ask them to help you. Then ask God to help you. It works without fail. God bless all alcoholics and other addicted people whether in recovery or not.
Member: angie m
Location: california
Date: June 19, 2003
Time: 01:25 PM
EXCUSE me but after reading everything i have read here and in the coffee pot this morning i finally couldn't help but to laugh ... (((kelly m ))) this all QUACKS me up too... ok in the coffee pot we have the same crazy ass fake post from a BILL CLINTON then over here the same post by the (((FAKE ASS POSTER HILARY)) these is too much .... its amuzing to me that someone has nothing better to do then to cut and paste alot of {{{B U L L S H I T }}} on this site that the majority of people on here dont give a rats ass about.... i mean its not that difficult people all of you ((non aaers)) all the ((anti aa's)) just go some fkn where else... if you are so against AA and have other beliefs thats fine more power to ya ... but take your shit somewhere else ..... all i can say is ((( I ))) for one {{{{{ DO NOT }}}}} want what you have ... i dont wanna recover how ever it is you suggest is a better way to recover ... i want nothing to do with it period... i mean thats a scarey thing to me to find recovery yet still be so miserable as to have NOTHING better to fkn do than to (((cut and paste)))) (((cut and paste)) (((cut and paste))) a bunch of lame ass shit on an AA related message that is against AA or whatever .... just to irritate people and then to have to use fake names to do it ... is pathetic.....it's sorta mind boggeling to think you have nothing better to do with your time ... and ya know what i can't figuer out is (((who the fuck))) cares if people wanna recover through AA then so be it ... i know its working for me ..... and many many others.... what difference does it make to any of you (((HATERS))0 for how we choose to recover .... and if ya have something to say ya think you could at least come up with your own damn words... anyways whatever .... have a good day
Member: angie m
Location: california
Date: June 19, 2003
Time: 01:25 PM
EXCUSE me but after reading everything i have read here and in the coffee pot this morning i finally couldn't help but to laugh ... (((kelly m ))) this all QUACKS me up too... ok in the coffee pot we have the same crazy ass fake post from a BILL CLINTON then over here the same post by the (((FAKE ASS POSTER HILARY)) these is too much .... its amuzing to me that someone has nothing better to do then to cut and paste alot of {{{B U L L S H I T }}} on this site that the majority of people on here dont give a rats ass about.... i mean its not that difficult people all of you ((non aaers)) all the ((anti aa's)) just go some fkn where else... if you are so against AA and have other beliefs thats fine more power to ya ... but take your shit somewhere else ..... all i can say is ((( I ))) for one {{{{{ DO NOT }}}}} want what you have ... i dont wanna recover how ever it is you suggest is a better way to recover ... i want nothing to do with it period... i mean thats a scarey thing to me to find recovery yet still be so miserable as to have NOTHING better to fkn do than to (((cut and paste)))) (((cut and paste)) (((cut and paste))) a bunch of lame ass shit on an AA related message that is against AA or whatever .... just to irritate people and then to have to use fake names to do it ... is pathetic.....it's sorta mind boggeling to think you have nothing better to do with your time ... and ya know what i can't figuer out is (((who the fuck))) cares if people wanna recover through AA then so be it ... i know its working for me ..... and many many others.... what difference does it make to any of you (((HATERS))0 for how we choose to recover .... and if ya have something to say ya think you could at least come up with your own damn words... anyways whatever .... have a good day
Member:
Location:
Date: June 19, 2003
Time: 01:33 PM
And NOBODY wants what you have either chickadee.....How do you know what other people want anyway??? your a standard crazy aa woman with no life other than thinking not drinking makes you some kind of hero woman or something. Have you no way to feel better about yourself than that pathetic state of living, if it could be classified as that????//
Member:
Location:
Date: June 19, 2003
Time: 01:35 PM
did anybody say they were trying to stop anyone's recovery, if they did i missed it---seems to me that bill or hillary or whoever is only interested in REAL recovery, not some aaa crap of going to meetingsa and not drinking............
Member:
Location:
Date: June 19, 2003
Time: 01:35 PM
did anybody say they were trying to stop anyone's recovery, if they did i missed it---seems to me that bill or hillary or whoever is only interested in REAL recovery, not some aaa crap of going to meetingsa and not drinking............
Member:
Location:
Date: June 19, 2003
Time: 01:44 PM
I have been in AA for a month or two and then tried reading all the books I can on recovery. I still beleive it comes from within, like any drastic change and letting go of our "crutches" we must wnat to do it. I want to stop drinking on the outside but a smal part of me is afraid and does not want to lose my crutch. AA worked for awhile because it was a support system, knowing I was not alone. Had othing to do with a "higher power". Terry, NY I understand yr. feeling toward RR. I bought the book and underlined all the things in there I thought would help but ultimately I believe it comes from within. I also couldn't help but notice you were back in here when you last said you would not because RR was yr. answer. We need each other. The RR website has no support, just tells us to stop drinking and it's our "stinkin' thinking" which leads us to drink. Partly true. Anyway, it's a horrible addiction to try and deal with and I wish all of us luck in any way we can help oursleves...including slogans. Mine is "One Minute at a Time" a lot of days.
Member: angie m
Location: california
Date: June 19, 2003
Time: 02:30 PM
actually((no name)) i do have or am getting a life .... because AA is helping me to learn how to live a happy peaceful life .... and though you seem to think you know it all ya dont ... i never really drank i did speed... but the AA program works for me ... so AGAIN you were wrong about me feeling like a HERO because i don't drink.... i feel like somebody not only because i dont put a needle in my arm these days... or becuase i am not out husseling and hurting evryone that comes into contact with me ... but also because i truely care about others today....it feels good to finally care about someone besides myself .... and ((no name)) if ya paid attention i said that (( I )) didnt want what you had ... didn't say anything about anyone else not wanting it .... maybe thats your problem... ya sorta make things up as ya go along .... what are works for ya ... if ya wanna call that working ... i'll tell ya from an outsiders view just from what you've displayed on here so far that it's really not working very well ... at least i wouldn't happy with it if i were you... but thank God i'm not ..... you also no not very much about AA because it is about more then just not drinking and going to meetings..... try reading the book or are you afraid ... ya know if you ever do end up coming to AA and find that it works you'll have one hell of story ... i mean about the part about how against it you were ... and you never know what God has in store for you ...someday you may be here being apart of all this and not against it.... anyways i'll pray for you .... real recovery is being afraid to sign your name to something that you supposedly believe in ... sounds sorta sketchy to me ..... anyways have a great day
Member: Justin
Location: Clifton Park, New York
Date: June 19, 2003
Time: 06:56 PM
O.K. here we go. I'm going to simply say that AA is not what it's all cracked up to be. I find Terri's posts extremely intelligent and well-informed. They are not only thought provoking, but not just parrot(t)ed quips. Nobody has a corner on the market for sobriety except maybe God and He doesn't even want nor take any credit for it so that's got to mean something. Anyways, I hope you continue to post Terri as I find your insights to be extremely valuable and worthwhile, THANKS!!! BTW Terri, I'm from Clifton Park, you know where that is?
Member: Carlc
Location: nm
Date: June 19, 2003
Time: 07:02 PM
What a pathetic life some people have, I am not a catholic, I am not a Mormon, I am not a christian, but I dont knock those people, religion has given their life purpose, so who am I to knock it? One thing I dont do is spend a lot of my valuable time in their churches or on their web sites trying to tell them what to believe. This is a prime example of people that have absolutly no life of their own. Life is for the living not for the discontent.
Member: sandy
Location: uk
Date: June 19, 2003
Time: 07:31 PM
Hi all, let me tell you if I hadn't known these quirky little sayings today I may have picked up, not because I was low but because I was on a high. Easy does it, A day at a time, just two that got me past the liquer shop. Long live the sayings long live AA and long live me sober for another day 00.30am uk. I been sober now 10 months I cannot go back to the dark days of fear. THank you all AAs world wide and in FF meetings LOL xxxx
Member:
Location:
Date: June 19, 2003
Time: 07:49 PM
Jack Trimpey everyone knows is like the devil, a faggot
Member:
Location:
Date: June 19, 2003
Time: 07:53 PM
Jack Trimpey everyone knows is like the devil, a faggot
Member: Diane
Location: Oklahoma
Date: June 19, 2003
Time: 08:26 PM
let's see how can we all get past all this negative talk??? Oh I know just be positive we won't drink or do drugs again. I am sober and happy now finally with my new life. I see others drink and want no part of it anymore. I still have every day problems but life is so much better when I am sober....
Member:
Location:
Date: June 19, 2003
Time: 08:46 PM
Jack Trimpey everyone knows is like the devil, a faggot
Member:
Location:
Date: June 19, 2003
Time: 09:38 PM
Carlc. ole boy, what are you if not Christian?? Your posts leave little "wiggle room" as you often mention The Most High, a clear and direct reference to Jesus whether you know it or not........
Member: Carlc
Location: nm
Date: June 19, 2003
Time: 11:37 PM
Without going into a long explanation of my beliefs. I will try to make it short. Christ did not start christianity, he was a jew, not jewish there is a difference. Christianity was started if I remember correctly by Constintine to consolidate all religions to order to make sure everyone tithed accordingly. I fear the MOST HIGH one of the definitions of fear being, Overwhelming respect and I love Christ his son. They were impressed with the apostle Pauls teachings.
Member:
Location:
Date: June 20, 2003
Time: 12:13 AM
this posting board is supposed to be a place for those of us that have had the courage to admit our defeat by alcohol....a place where we can go to and share our experience, strenght and hope.......and it has become a battle ground for uneducated and incorrect opinions of people who have not earned a right to be here.....so to those of us true a.a'ers i am apologising in advance for what i am about to say..... and to all you other F'KING IDIOTS.....GET THE F'CK OFF THIS BOARD....YOU ARE NOT WANTED HERE AND YOU HAVE NO BUSINESS BEING HERE......UNLESS YOU THINK YOU MIGHT BE A PROBLEM WITH ALCOHOL.......ALL I'M HEARING IS DIARRHEA OF THE MOUTH.....OR A'S...WHICH EVER YOU PREFER......
Member: Carlc
Location: in a hurry
Date: June 20, 2003
Time: 12:15 AM
I was in a hurry when I typed the above I believe it was Constantine and the leaders of the time that were impressed with the apostles Paul teaching not the MOST HIGH and CHRIST.
Member: JoEllen
Location: Buffalo, NY
Date: June 20, 2003
Time: 12:48 AM
God I only have 105 days of sobriety and you all make my head spin. I think I (not you) need to"lighten up" so I'm getting the heck away from this. If I had to deal with this much nit picking I would drink I just met a girl tonight brand new- 0 days. God put me in her path to "love her until she could love herself". She thinks she's an asshole but she is relly sick. I had to show her to think of herself that way and tell her yes I do care about her. So much self hatred. I'm glad I heard about "loving people until they could love themselves" I am now just beginning to love or respect myself. I think if you don't like your sponsor get a new one. Simple (that word again). Maybe make up a new slogan if you don't like the ones you hear. Maybe you could help someone with it. I promise we won't mistake you for God. I never heard the slogan "sponsors are God" Please don't start that one. Thank God for AA. Thank God for my sponsor and everyne who "loved me until I could love myself". "God bless you".
Member: Stacy
Location: West Coast
Date: June 20, 2003
Time: 12:52 AM
I think I'll check this site again in a few weeks. Tired of the debating and discussion for/against AA. I'm just trying to share ESH with others and learn from theirs. All this other stuff, quite frankly is too much shit for my head right now. Best of luck to all.
Member: Jo Ellen H
Location: Buffalo, NY
Date: June 20, 2003
Time: 01:03 AM
I was just thinking ... Isn't thsi an EARLY SOBRIETY page?. Please find a more appropriate forum for debate. I am in early sobriety and I came here for ESH. I didn't find much. I'll just stick to meetings. Forget this.
Member:
Location:
Date: June 20, 2003
Time: 01:22 AM
My favorite one liner is CarlC is an asshole.
Member: cant fool me
Location: you know who i am
Date: June 20, 2003
Time: 01:35 AM
his name is not carlc i know him from laredo texas his real name is clarence and he lives in arizona
Member: Beth H.
Location: Big Arrow
Date: June 20, 2003
Time: 07:58 AM
What the hell??? I come here looking for encouragement, and I find The History of Western Religion 101?? I know how to spell Adonai, Elohim, and Tetragrammaton...so what? We're supposed to be helping each other stay sober. How are these poison injections going to accomplish that? Find another place for ecclesiastical debate, please. Let the rest of us get healthy.
Member: Tom.
Location: NY
Date: June 20, 2003
Time: 09:26 AM
I'm in my 5th day. My head's beginning to spin too. That's the last thing I need right now. I hope the others, like me, stick to what got us to this site to begin with. I hope all of you who are new to this stay here. I for one could use your support and insight. I'm going one day at a time and sometimes one hour at a time. A few times just a minute at a time. Whatever it takes to get to the end of the day and not drink. I'll continue to do it day in and day out for the rest of my life. Bit by Bit. Thanks, and good luck to all of you
Member: JT
Location: Florida
Date: June 20, 2003
Time: 09:29 AM
I propose that those of us concerned with our alcoholism and recovery choose to read only the posts that are appropriate.I don't find it too difficult to ignore the other stuff that doesn't pertain to my experience. Don't leave, just endure, and we'll all make this a place of serenity and of mutual help.
Member: Jackie
Location: MN
Date: June 20, 2003
Time: 10:32 AM
Tom from NY, WAY TO GO!! Day 5, you are doing it dude! To cool. I am almost to my 6 months. I have been watching your posts, proud of ya!! You are over the toughest part, the first few days. :) Hang tight! PEACE
Member: MickD
Location: NW United States
Date: June 20, 2003
Time: 10:35 AM
This will be my third day. Wednesday morning I dumped all of the vodka and beer down the drain. I don't know that I'm a real alcoholic, but I have certainly abused the stuff for years. I never miss work. I have perfect credit and a very good income. But I know that the drinking is and will affect my health. I often do not remember many of the details of the previous night due to drinking. I think my liver has been harmed--hopefully not to the point of cancer. I'm over weight even though I exercise regularly. I know that I can't cut down my drinking and I know that the best thing I can do for my health is to stop drinking. So I meat the minimum requirement for membership. I have a desire to stop drinking. I'm 60; that much I know. This is the third time I've quit drinking. I'm hear for reinforcement. I want to remain on track and not loose site of my reasons for quitting. My wife isn't as dedicated to my quitting as I am at this point. We still have wine in the house, and she wants to drink wine on special occassions. I'm afraid it might taste too good, and that "occasional" drink could lead to trouble. Anyway, right now I'm strong enough to avoid the wine. I just need to keep on keeping on. Thanks for listening.
Member: Jasmine
Location: South Carolina
Date: June 20, 2003
Time: 11:16 AM
Are you people all nuts??? Carlc and the others who post about religious beleifs are the ones who are sober! If you don't get that, go drink some more. If you want to talk about alcohol forever, go to a bar. If AA is only about not drinking for you, you can robably get that--AND STILL LEAD A MISERABLE LIFE--go ahead!!! But to put people down because they do have a spiritual belief system is not only rude and UNsober but stupid and pathetic all at the same time. Who says newcomers can't espouse spiritual and religious beliefs, certainly not the oh so precious big book or 12&12, quite the opposite in fact! They exhort "Be quick to see where the religious man is right," so there you go, straight out of your own book. Try to spin that one all ya want, but that's all it is, spin. God gets everyone sober with or without their cooperation, it's just much easier to cooperate with The Most High like Carlc attempts to do. God Bless ya Carlc man keep up the good yet difficult work your doing as I for one truly appreciate it!!!!
Member: MickD
Location: NW United States
Date: June 20, 2003
Time: 12:24 PM
This is my second post. I'm having deep PVCs. I don't know if it's the chemical change from not drinking or the possible stress I may be feeling. I've had PVCs before during times of stress or when I've gotten dehydrated. Has anyone experienced heart palpatations during the first few days after quitting the booze? MickD--still in my third day
Member: Tom
Location: NY
Date: June 20, 2003
Time: 12:44 PM
Mick, hang in there, it's probably both. I really did day two and again day 5, (this morning) They'll subside. Just "TRY" to relax. HANG IN THERE!!
Member: Tom
Location:
Date: June 20, 2003
Time: 12:45 PM
P.S. I was convinced I was dehydrated. I damn near drown myself!!.
Member: barb s
Location: canada
Date: June 20, 2003
Time: 12:50 PM
Live and let live certainly could apply here! To Mick D.- hang in there. You have lots of support here.
Member: Lori
Location: Florida
Date: June 20, 2003
Time: 01:15 PM
GOD ori odr dee rc lt yi o n Faith without works is dead. If I am to live a sober life I have to take action in changing my old behaviors and bad traits. The abnormal had become normal. Now to live with serenity, & peace I must take action. I could complicate a grain of sand if left to my own thinking. The program of AA as outlined in the BB has been my only sucess at sobriety. By following the suggestions outlined and working with sponsors. I have tried "half measures" it doesn't work. I have stayed away from Alcohol for 6 yrs and then thought "1" won't hurt. Only to end up driving my car off an overpass. Headed for the highway underneath screaming "Dear God Please help me"!! He did just that. God will answer our prayers, the ones we need. Not the ones we want. There are people suffering from this disease coming to this site looking for expierence strength and Hope. Put your selfishness aside and allow them the ability to have that chance of starting a new life. This disease lives in my brain. It will attack without notice if I don't stay in prayer, rest on my laurels and think I know whats best for me. & Stop going to meetings. I am doomed if I do these things. Why would you want to stand of the way of anyones sobriety? No matter how they got it? God Bless everyone here posting and keep coming back it does work.
Member:
Location:
Date: June 20, 2003
Time: 01:18 PM
Good Orderly Direction = GOD ....that is what I meant to write in my earlier post. However it didn't come out right. Sorry for double posting.
Member: Mick D
Location: NW United States
Date: June 20, 2003
Time: 01:18 PM
Thanks Barb and Tom. My heart beat seems to be more even now. I've been trying to breath deep. I really appreciate the support--it's good to know that I'm not the only one with irregular heart beats during the first few days. I was even thinking of seeing a doctore for a tranquilizer. I guess that would be a dumb idea!!!
Member: Diane
Location: Oklahoma
Date: June 20, 2003
Time: 01:43 PM
hi Diane here day 87 sober (((Mick D))) I seem to remember when I would try and sleep at night the first few weeks I would wake up with jerks, it's withdrawal is what I think but if you are afraid about your heart go see a Doctor cause some people need help when they first get off booze, I wish you all the luck and yes deep breathing helps also cranberry juice cleanses your liver so you might want to buy some, I know it sure helps me
Member: mick D
Location: Washington
Date: June 20, 2003
Time: 02:11 PM
Hi Diane. Thanks for the suggestion to drink cranberry juice. I'll get some right away. Mick
Member: Trace
Location: Essex England
Date: June 20, 2003
Time: 02:17 PM
Thanks you everyone. Even though I am only 5months sober, it is so easy to forget what it was like them first few days or even wks. Reading some off your posts makes me remember not to take where I am today for granted. Thank you all ((MICK))
Member: ANGIE M
Location: CALIFORNIA
Date: June 20, 2003
Time: 02:45 PM
when i first came into the program ... i loved that saying faith with out works is dead ... we do a morning meditaion every morning at the recovery home i am at ... and the last page of it ...well we read the middle of 60-63 and then skip over to 85-88... and i loved that "faith without works is dead" i would always hope to be the last reader so i could read that part ... last night at the meeting i went to i was reminded of another good one too and it was... "i am right where i am supposed to be " and i really like that one... something i constantly have to remind myself of ... it may not be right where i wanna be .... but no matter where i was i would probably wish i was somewhere else .... but i do know and have faith that no matter what "i am right where i am supposed to be" I TRUELY WANNA APOLOGIZE TO THIS BOARD FOR THE LITTLE CONFLICT PF INTEREST BETWEEN ME AND "HILARY/BILL CLINTON/NO NAME "POSTER YESTERDAY.... I SHOULD OF BEEN PRACTICING ... WHAT I HAVE BEEN DOING ALOT SINCE I HAVE BEEN DOING FOR THE PAST 8 1/2 MONTHS /... BITING MY TOUNGE ....I DO APOLOGIZE
Member: Mick D
Location: Washington
Date: June 20, 2003
Time: 03:17 PM
I'm brand new to this site, and I just figured out what ((....)) must be: HUGS Thanks Trace and Diane for the HUGS and the caring words. I'm feeling really good right now. I attended "live" AA meetings back in 1983 the first time I quite drinking. I think this online meeting is right for me this time around. Thanks for being here. Mick D..still working on day three
Member: angie
Location: california
Date: June 20, 2003
Time: 05:47 PM
mick d ... i think it's great that your on here ... posting .... i'll keep you and your sobriety in my prayers .... 3 days wow .... thats a big deal ... well it was for me ... angie
Member: John Smith
Location: Plymouth Rock
Date: June 20, 2003
Time: 05:58 PM
Hi all. Hey listen, God Bless the masses, but this page is obviously early sobriety, although the coffe pot isn't much better. Carlc, man you have NO knowledge of history to claim such insanity as Christianity wasn't started by Christ but Constantine, that's assinine. Maybe a room full of drunks will buy that load of crap, but there's not even a semblance of truth to it as fact so you really ought to look elsewhere to validate your own personal beliefs unless they're all built on lies. Isn't that one of the main things we are suppossed to be changing as sober people you who like to espouse that you never lie to another alkie??? I'm not lying to you either and if you consider it harsh, it's the exact same medicine you dose out to newcomers and all. I think it's mostly good actually, but you need to not only be careful with people, but at least get some of the facts straight as the whole St. Paul thing is also WAY off-base. Leaves me wondering if all your posts on spirituality being the answer, which is correct, have any semblance of truth to them at all as you clearly have NO knowledge of history whatsoever. Anyways, peace to you my friend, but try doing some research before spouting off that crap you try to pass off as history, would ya????//
Member: Mick D
Location: Washington
Date: June 20, 2003
Time: 06:18 PM
Did someone say "history?" Well, let's see. The first time I stopped drinking was in 1983. I stayed away from the stuff for over four years. I stopped drinking again in 1990 and then started drinking again in 1996. Now it's seven years later, and I'm in my third day. My hardest time is right after work. I get this tight feeling in my stomach, but I made this free will decision. And I'm planning to make it work. Thanks for being here.
Member: angie ,m
Location: california
Date: June 20, 2003
Time: 06:56 PM
mick ... what is the free will decision.... ... and hows it going so far ... and what are your plans for the weekend ???/
Member: angie ,m
Location: california
Date: June 20, 2003
Time: 06:56 PM
mick ... what is the free will decision.... ... and hows it going so far ... and what are your plans for the weekend ???/
Member: Mick D
Location: Washington
Date: June 20, 2003
Time: 07:42 PM
Thanks for asking Angie. I made the decision to stop drinking of my own free will. In other words, nobody told me that I had to stop. I'm doing really well today...except for the heart palpatations; PVCs. ....Thanks for asking about my plans for this, my first dry weekend in over six years. I have some work to do at home that will keep me busy. ...I'm very pleased with my decision to quit drinking.
Member: Carlc
Location: nm
Date: June 20, 2003
Time: 07:51 PM
John Smith I love alcoholics and I will not lie to them when it comes to AA,or recovery the way it is in the big book. Now you know why I dont practice organized religion, I have spent a lot of time reading, I went to Catholic school for 12 years, I have studied with many various groups and everyone is right, and they all give their spin. I dont knock them neither do I try to disuade them nor argue history with them or argue any point someone asked me a question and I answered it by what I believed to be true. like I said everyon thinks they are right, I dont argue with that. I dont opoligize for what my spirtual beliefs and this is not the place for me to argue reiigous beliefs.
Member: angie m
Location: california
Date: June 20, 2003
Time: 07:57 PM
mick .... have you seen a doctor ... about your heart ... isn't there anything that they can do .... sounds scarey to me .... i'll pray for you over the weekend .....
Member: Cathy
Location: Carolina
Date: June 20, 2003
Time: 08:18 PM
Angie m girlfriend, you need to get a grip. You're only a few months sober and live in a "recovery house"? That's not what sobriety is about as you haven't even really started yet as you may or may not be on the right track. Early sobriety is largely considered, and rightfully so, between 3-5 years by the professional community and people in AA act like 1 year is a big deal, it's not. You can not possibly begin to have any semblance of an understanding of what the steps are really all about for at least that period of time depending of course on some of the individual variables involved. Anyways, peace to you young lady, but do not pretend you know what AA is or isn't after a few months as you are clueless.
Member: crazy as a loon
Location: queer street
Date: June 20, 2003
Time: 09:10 PM
Welcome to the world of alcoholics what is it wee suffer from? insanity, this page proves it.
Member: Diane
Location: Oklahoma
Date: June 21, 2003
Time: 12:14 AM
lol crazy your funny but pretty right on with that statement we are a little insane and Cathy???? what's wrong with you she has not said anything that I can see wrong she is just being a caring person so butt out it don't matter how many days we are sober we can fall at any time so we keep on guard and to try and help someone is a good thing. So don't be running her down. Yes ((( Mike))) that's a big hug and lot's of love and hope for you cause I know how hard those first few days can be. I'm only on day 86 but I've stop before for a year but never did I count my days like I do now and I think that makes a big difference, good luck to you Mike and you too angie m and kathy take you a chill pill and just learn to love all us alkies cause we will never have the perfect words that will always be right but we are here to try
Member: Lee L.
Location: Canada
Date: June 21, 2003
Time: 12:21 AM
"it's okay to look back at the past, just don't stare at it"...that one sticks with me. luv, Lee
Member: Julie
Location: Nova Scotia
Date: June 21, 2003
Time: 12:56 AM
To get what you've never had, do what you've never done. Staying sober!!
Member: joe t.
Location: ca
Date: June 21, 2003
Time: 01:26 AM
Don't distress yourself over others right now. Remember, this is a selfish program. We have to think of our own soberity and not someone elses. You are sober and that is all that matters. You can not make anyone else sober. They have to want it for themselves. If you have a Big Book read "There is a solution" Many questions are answered in that chapter. Also, you can't help others till you help yourself. I guess what I'm trying to say is just work on yourself and others will see what you have and may want it or may not, that is their choosing, not yours
Member: Jean D
Location: FL
Date: June 21, 2003
Time: 01:40 AM
THIS IS NOT, I SAY NOT A SELFISH PROGRAM!!!!!!!! The big book of Alcoholics Anonymous states: Selfishness, self-centeredness! That, we think, is the root of our Troubles. IF you continue to think that you need to be selfish you will surely drink again, and if you are like me, to drink is to die. Please read the big book with another alcoholic or at a big book meeting. The correct answers are in there. And yes. you do have to put your soberiety first before everything else which if you do, puts you as far from selfishness as you can get. because this is a spiritual program and it teachs us to think of others (something this alcoholic never did) first! Please dont fall into the trap of you have to help yourself first... as by helping others you are helping yourself and working with another alcoholic is the ONLY way you will stay sober. This is the spiritual way of life the big book talks about.
Member: Carlos
Location: Venezuela
Date: June 21, 2003
Time: 03:48 AM
Jean sweetie-pie, you're absolutely insane if you actually think the stupid big book has all the answers and that the only way to stay sober is to work with other alkies. That's just standard AA rhetoric and it's not only UNthinking, as the big book itself readily admits(pg.82), but downright STUPID. Maybe you better try reading the book a little closer and thinking about it without the AA brainwashed mentality that is so glaring in most every most on this site. I know you think it's great and you're helping others, but the bottom line is you're NOT! You may in fact be harming them by feeding them the standard line of AA crap about the bb and just not drinking, so please, don't deny the fact it's for you and you alone(the very definition of selfish) as while you most certainly believe you're not, you're only fooling yourself. God Bless you and maybe you'll truly come to see the light one day, but your post is frightening at this point.
Member: Jodie
Location: Philadelphia, PA
Date: June 21, 2003
Time: 08:52 AM
Thank you, Carlc for your feedback. It was comforting to know that others struggle, even though we are trying to live the program. I don't hear that enough. Also, thank you for reminding me about 'daily reprive contingent on my spiritual condition.' I do go to a Big Book Study every Saturday, but I don't know the Big Book inside & out yet. Hopefully, someday I will. :) Carlc, you seem like a good person to know. Anyway, thanks
Member:
Location:
Date: June 21, 2003
Time: 09:01 AM
Hilary's post is from the rational recovery website. I read about that rational recovery system before. They say that their's is a way to get sober & stay sober, but when you go to the site there's sections devoted to AA bashing. Still, if rational recovery works to well, then why the need to bash AA? Seems like BS to me.
Member: tom
Location:
Date: June 21, 2003
Time: 09:09 AM
GOOD MORNING DAY 6!!!
Member: ALESSA
Location: HOUSTON
Date: June 21, 2003
Time: 11:01 AM
Hello all! Alessa, alcoholic & new comer here...Starting all over today. Favorite one liner for me right now would be "One day at a time". When I start feeling all anxiety ridden, I just start repeating that over & over. It helps calm me and the craving down. AA helped me stay sober for 90days last year around this exact time. Been slipping back ever since. It's been a real bad ride. Im pulling myself up by the boot straps and gonna crawl my wasy back up to the top. I know I can do it with God & the support of AA. Just need some self confidence so I can walk back thru the doors of AA and get my sobriety chip & find a sponsor. Please pray for me that I have the courage to do so. Thanks for alowing me share.
Member: Tom
Location: NY
Date: June 21, 2003
Time: 12:01 PM
Us "beginners" don't really give a damn about the big book or your philosophy on how to interpret it. We just have the desire not to drink and are trying to take on each day as it comes. From what I've read, we're all hanging in there and we will continue to encourage each other the best way we know how. It's what got us here.
Member: mick D
Location: Washington
Date: June 21, 2003
Time: 12:26 PM
Good morning from Mick D....day four...so far so good. ((everyone))....Thanks for being here...
Member:
Location:
Date: June 21, 2003
Time: 12:48 PM
Mick, congrats on the first three. WE CAN DO THIS!!
Member: mick d
Location:
Date: June 21, 2003
Time: 01:24 PM
I agree. WE CAN DO THIS
Member: Jackie
Location: MN
Date: June 21, 2003
Time: 02:20 PM
Way to go guys, day 4 Mick and day 6 Tom!! Wooohooo!!! Having a little test myself this weekend. My daughter is gone for the weekend, at her grandma's cabin. My car is broken down, no one to fix it at the moment. so called "friends" are not returning phone calls. So I am stuck here all by myself, and can't go anywhere. Keeping myself busy, and by my surprise, I feel OK. Anyone that would like to chat, my email is jaxj35@netzero.net PEACE
Member: angie k
Location: nj
Date: June 21, 2003
Time: 03:58 PM
mick, alessa, tom.......gongrats.......its all so new and terrifying....that was my experience......but one day at a time.....sometimes one minute at a time..........my sponsor told me to put down the bat i was beating myself with......that really got my attention.......nobody was holding the bat over my head other than myself.......my ESH {experience, strength and hope} for the new people......is that we do this just for today......just for today.....i can stay sober....just for today......the simpler we keep things the easier it is......for the 2 million plus recovering alcoholics out there i can say this program works.......i started my one day at a time life six and a half years ago.......been sober since....aa does work......but you have to want to go to any lenghts to get it.....as one person told me......if i put half of the energy i put into drinking into my recovery i might be one of the lucky ones......i dont see myself as sober for six and a half years.....i see myself sober for today......just today.......
Member: mick
Location:
Date: June 21, 2003
Time: 04:20 PM
((Angie)) I was just feeling a bit shaky so I got myself a nice piece of bread with peanut butter and an ice cold glass of milk. It really helped. Thanks for the encouragement. I'm getting by a minute at-a-time.
Member:
Location:
Date: June 21, 2003
Time: 04:55 PM
Tom great attitude what got you here was alcohol not a lack of encouragement, seems like you havent had enough and if yuor just hanging in there, soon you will be hanging out.
Member:
Location:
Date: June 21, 2003
Time: 04:55 PM
Tom great attitude what got you here was alcohol not a lack of encouragement, seems like you havent had enough and if yuor just hanging in there, soon you will be hanging out.
Member: Tom T
Location: NY
Date: June 21, 2003
Time: 05:29 PM
I don't get it. What's that mean? I'm in it for the long haul. I'm in day 6. If your suggesting I'll be hanging out in a bar or something, your mistaken.
Member:
Location:
Date: June 21, 2003
Time: 06:46 PM
Go get a 12-pack of Heiny why don't ya idiots? You are all full of shit!! Angie from NJ is an asshole who can't say anything except those stupid sayings, take that slut with ya guys to the bar would ya's? Matter of fact, why don't you all get together and have a good old-fashioned throw-down and get slip-sloppy drunk together because that's where your headed!!!!!!!!!!!!
Member:
Location:
Date: June 21, 2003
Time: 08:12 PM
to mr no name......this is angie in nj.....those little sayings got me sobriety a little at a time.....there is so much to be said for emotional sobriety too.....but obviously you wouldn,t have a clue what that is either.....you know, if you really want people to take you seriously at least have the courage to put your name to the posting.....wow....you have such hate inside you......i,ll pray for you because thats the only thing i can do.....you can continue to insult me and those of us who are trying to get better ...... if it makes you feel better about yourself...go ahead.....i am so past people like you.....
Member:
Location:
Date: June 21, 2003
Time: 08:30 PM
My fave 1-liner is aa is for losers........
Member: Marty G.
Location: Cowtown OH
Date: June 21, 2003
Time: 11:15 PM
((MickD)), hang tough buddy. To you and anyone else going through detox you might want to pick up a copy of THE RECOVERY BOOK (Al J Mooney M.D., Arlene & Howard Eisenberg) it cost around $15.00 and has a bunch of quick facts on recovery. Tells you what physical and mental processes your body is going through. This book is heavy AA, but does touch on other approaches one may take to sobriety. I found it very informative. It starts from day one and follows through to long term sobriety. Diet, exercise, spirituality, meds, gay, lesbian,etc. it covers it all. It even has a section entitled "Could I be addicted to AA?" I can not tell people what program works best but I am using AA meetings. What ever floats your boat. I hope this helps any who want to be sober. Love one another. meg
Member: Julie
Location: Nova Scotia
Date: June 21, 2003
Time: 11:18 PM
Julie here, 19 days! It's pretty sad all these people bashing What are you doing on this site anyway? I am thankful for this website and all it's encouragement, I don't know why Angie was singled out, Bless you Angie. I've been trying to find 'peers' since elementary schools, I finally feel like I've found them. People who understand, or at least try to understand what I'm saying instead of offering advice such as, "Get a grip." I haven't been at this for long but I love the community aspect the most. AA is not for saving the world, it's for saving us. Thanks and Blessings.
Member: Carlc
Location: nm
Date: June 22, 2003
Time: 12:06 AM
To Jodie from Philadelphia,thank you for the compliment,I truly do try to be a good person. The big book is a basic text and also a design for living, and I dont think any of us will ever really ever know it real real well, the thing that it does is, it enables us to gain access to a Higher Power and teaches us through the steps how to have a relationship with our creator which is the most beautiful thing that I have ever experienced, It is hard but like I said I cant put into words the awesome feelings that I have felt on this spiritual journey. God bless you, you sound like a very sincere person.
Member: angie
Location: nj
Date: June 22, 2003
Time: 12:24 AM
hi julie, angie here.....thanks for the support...dont worry about people bashing me.....it has no effect one way or another......god bless you on your journey and thanks to all the other aa'ers on this postboard who give me a mesage of hope on a daily basis.....i love the meetings but this is a nice other option when i cant get to one....lets love one another back to sobriety.....amen....
Member: Jimmy
Location: Montana
Date: June 22, 2003
Time: 01:22 AM
Kerry C. in Texas, you are the one who doesn't have the facts straight my friend. Ebby Thatcher died a miserable alcoholic death and while Bill in his later years referred to him as his sponsor, that was not always the case but only after it became "fashionable" to do so. He actually picked the idea up from spiritual advisors that the Catholics have used for centuries and Father Dowling and the sister clued him into. It's well documented, so don't give Bill too much credit as he was just trying to make a buck. But don't down him too much either, hey we all have to eat right??