Member: mark m
Location: columbia tn
Date: July 06, 2003
Time: 08:59 AM
hi my name is mark m i think meeting are great i've learned alot at them and met some nice people there i can't make as many as i like (due to that i don't have a drivers licence and i live out in the stixx) but i'm commited to 3 a week somthimes i make more but never fewer that 3per week hope you all have a awesome day take care and god bless
Member: Tom L
Location: Central New York
Date: July 06, 2003
Time: 07:11 PM
My name is Tom, and I have been sober for 8 months. My life has gotten a whole lot better since I have been sober. It has not all been a "bed of roses" however. Through these tough times I have taken the words that I heard in the meetings, and applied them in my own stupid way. I am not always right in what I do, but so far, thank God, I have stayed sober through those tough times. Had I not gone to those meetings when I didnt have time, or when I didn't want to, I am sure that I would have drank out of fear or frustration, or what ever emotion I decided to let rule me that day. It is such a comfort to know that I have thousands of people behind me in this. Thank You All!!!
Member: mark m
Location: columbia tn
Date: July 06, 2003
Time: 11:04 PM
hey ,just mark m,alcoholic went to my meeting BB study read the WIVES chapter it should have said girlfriends alot of it hit me hard i thought i gave to to god in the 4th 5th 6th 7th step but it brought up BAD thoughts and some of the things that i had did to them i'm feeling shamful of the things that i did tried to call my sponsor 'nobody home thing i'll just call it a night take care to all and god bless one day at a time day 52 looking forward to day 53
Member: Cec H
Location: Stampede City
Date: July 07, 2003
Time: 06:38 AM
Meetings are important to me. They keep me on an even keel. When I am up they bring me down, when I am down they bring me up. It is in the meetings I learnt what I was and who I was. And it is the meetings that started me on this incredable journey.
Member: Mike H
Location: Jackson MI
Date: July 07, 2003
Time: 10:52 AM
Mike, alcoholic. Going to meetings helps one to get out in a safe place, meet people, say what's on your mind, and get feedback through other members ESH. Without meetings and AA friends we are isolating and that is never a good thing.
Member: Tracy
Location: England
Date: July 07, 2003
Time: 11:18 AM
Meetings are my self-Medication. Boy do they work. Even if I overdoes I survive. If I miss a course I can safely double up. and if I have trouble get to grips with the lid of life, there is always some strong hands to help.
Member: L-RAY
Location: SCOTLAND
Date: July 07, 2003
Time: 11:30 AM
Meeting for me are the heart of this fellowship! you meet other people who understand your proplems and they can share with you there ESAH, and they made me feel wanted and i felt i wasnt alone anymore! the more you do make it easier and you get real friends to replace the bar ones! ((((Mark-Tom))) doing well guys!! Regards L-RAY
Member: AZbill
Location: Sierra Vista, Arizona
Date: July 07, 2003
Time: 02:54 PM
Bill here; alcoholic from Arizona. Meetings are where I find other alcoholics to work with. This insures my immunity from drinking. Meetings are the Fellowship part of the program. Meetings are where I discovered the very existence of AA. Where I found out what AA does, and what it does not do. I attend meetings for fun. I attend meetings to learn. I found out that AA meetings alone will not get nor keep me sober any more than a PTA meeting would make me a parent. In an early attempt I attended meetings every day for several months, walked out of a meeting and into a bar without a second thought. I must do the work preferably with another alcoholic. I firmly believe that the only thing that stands between me and my next drink is a God of understanding I found by working the steps. Thanks. az-bill@mindspring.com
Member: mariab
Location: north florida
Date: July 07, 2003
Time: 07:41 PM
I really need help. I feel like I'm about to have a nervous breakdown from the shame and depression that accompany drinking. Tonight I drove to our town's central AA center, but it was closed. I have a very high profile job and thus attending meetings has been very difficult for me. Someone already compromised by anonymity, luckily it was a teenager who just told my daughter (like she didn't know already, right?) I hope I can make it this way.
Member: Diane
Location: Oklahoma
Date: July 07, 2003
Time: 08:16 PM
Hi Diane here day 104 and this is my meetings and I thank God each day that I stay sober. I just got back from vacation in Georgia and everyone around me drank one night but I did not drink and I thanked God but the thing that helped me not drink was I did not want to loose my days sober....Thanks Diane
Member: Carlc
Location: nm
Date: July 07, 2003
Time: 10:22 PM
There are meeting where AA is spoken and then there many public gatherings that masquerade as AA meeting, In the beginning meetings were held for people who were interested in a spiritual way and where new people might bring their problems with alcohol, Our problems are not DWIs, or getting divorced, or getting fired, or getting beat up or all the wonderful things we do when under the infuence of alcohol, they are just a byproduct of being drunk. Our problems are stated on page 52. We were having problems with personal relationships, we couldnt control our emotional natures, we were prey to misery and depression, we couldnt make a living (nothing to do with a job),we had a feeling of uselessness, we were full of fear, we were unhappy, we could not be of real help to anyone, these were the problems that caused us to drink, they made us restless, irritable and discontent and a few drinks AT ONCE gave us ease and comfort, I go to alot of meeting where they talk about finance, romance, and applause and a bunch of other nonsense that has nothing to do with the solution, and the people doing this are not the newcomer, it is these so called old timers. The term oldtimer means just that, that you are old and have been here a long time. I know a lot of oldtimers that have never taken a step in their live but yet covet that worthless title and are sponsoring other poor newcomers who have no clue of what is going on. I love to go to meeting and I hardly ever leave one unless it is real bad. For the newcomers just keep coming back no matter what, this is a matter of life and death.
Member: mariab
Location: n.fla
Date: July 07, 2003
Time: 10:40 PM
Thanks for your comments, Carlc. I know it is a matter of life and death. I can feel it. My health is going, I look haggard, my mind is not as keen--and I'm a single mom. I have to save myself from these demons. This website looks like it might be a big help.
Member: Tom T
Location: NY
Date: July 07, 2003
Time: 10:50 PM
Day 22. Still sober and thankful for it. Best of luck to you Maria. You can do it.
Member: Manny
Location: Massachusetts
Date: July 07, 2003
Time: 10:52 PM
The importance of meetings varies for everyone and it also changes and is an evolutionary process for us all. I found meetings to be my life-blood early on(3 years or so), but now I stay away from meetings for long periods of time(1-6 months) for a number of reasons. Needless to say, they are no longer on my priority list, at least not the top 100. Albeit, they were number 1 my first year or so, they now seem so shallow and I have way too much of a life than to be at an AA meeting every day. Don't listen to the 90 in 90 crap, even though I did it, it's more a matter of trying it out for 3 months by going as often as you can and then decide if you WANT to. It does seem to work a little better if you don't drink in that particular 3 months though. Anyways, just my stance on it. Meeting maker make it? Most of the time, sometimes they die drunk, lonely, miserable alcoholic deaths!
Member: Marty
Location: Massachusetts
Date: July 07, 2003
Time: 10:52 PM
The importance of meetings varies for everyone and it also changes and is an evolutionary process for us all. I found meetings to be my life-blood early on(3 years or so), but now I stay away from meetings for long periods of time(1-6 months) for a number of reasons. Needless to say, they are no longer on my priority list, at least not the top 100. Albeit, they were number 1 my first year or so, they now seem so shallow and I have way too much of a life than to be at an AA meeting every day. Don't listen to the 90 in 90 crap, even though I did it, it's more a matter of trying it out for 3 months by going as often as you can and then decide if you WANT to. It does seem to work a little better if you don't drink in that particular 3 months though. Anyways, just my stance on it. Meeting maker make it? Most of the time, sometimes they die drunk, lonely, miserable alcoholic deaths!
Member: fred
Location:
Date: July 08, 2003
Time: 01:41 AM
sometimes they die drunk... but I think more people die sober. Life is to short I choose to live life day by day. What sucks is I'm happy drunk. I'm not happy the next day sick but they both come together.I hate meeting I see a lot of people trying to work the steps and thats good for them.But I think most of them forgot about life. I know they wouldn't have a life without AA. But what do I no nothing I'm just a sick man. SORRY just blowing of steam have a great day
Member: Les
Location: San Diego
Date: July 08, 2003
Time: 02:41 AM
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 and 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 and continueing to do what was suggested, to the best of my ability, my life has become wonderful. I now live "happy, joyous and free." With diligence and willingness anyone can do the same. I wish whoever reads this luck in gaining and maintaining sobriety.
Member: Shannon J.
Location: Seattle, WA
Date: July 08, 2003
Time: 03:33 AM
hi Shannon, alcoholic. It is nice to be here. I really needed this meeting just to hear what you all have to say. I just in the past year have driven cross country twice at the age of 22 and in this last time I was leaving a very abusive relationship of a year. To come home to my family and support network, was well very...let me just say it was a very emotional time. It still is now being that I have only been back for a week. to go to a meeting now after what I have been through to see or should i say hear the truth in others words and to just as much see the lie--for what is one without the other--I have been finding that I am sitting in these meetings that I have been involved in since the age of 7 (father has 14 yrs) and listen laughing at how I see me in others one minute and the next thing I know I find myself crying from happiness to hear the truth in others--their awakening. I have seen this world that we live in this past year on the other side of the spectrum from what I always knew and now to come back home to what was once comfortable for so long has opened my eyes so much. Being in these rooms has meant so much--it has given me a sense of self and offered a higher power. I want to thank you all for being in this moment in this meeting and in this world, god Bless and give us grace. Keep coming back. Thank you.
Member: Kim D.
Location: Bridgewater
Date: July 08, 2003
Time: 12:16 PM
Hi everyone. Kim here, alcoholic. Meetings... for me, they are where I experience the Fellowship of AA - people helping people. In early sobriety, having a homegroup to stay connected to was a cornerstone in the foundation of my sobriety. When I was struggling with life, there was a group of people who understood, cared and listened. They also encouraged me to be of service - to get active in the program - to be "a part of." They say you won't fall off a wagon if you're in the middle of it, and I found that to be true. Meetings were, and still are, a place where even if I say, "everything's fine," people who know me can tell otherwise by looking at my face. Meetings are instrumental in my staying connected to the program and not forgetting where my alcoholism took me when I was "out there" on my own. Also, attending meetings ensures that the doors of AA will be open for the next alcoholic who walks in looking for help with their illness. Around these parts, it's said that meetings are the "invisible medicine" we need and attending is getting a "check up from the neck up." Hokey sayings, but true for me. So many times I've hit a meeting, not knowing I was unsettled, and left feeling at peace and ten times better than I walked in. If you are new to the program, welcome. It was suggested to me that in the beginning, I chase AA like I chased the drink. Building a solid foundation in AA by attending meetings - as many as feels right to you and then 1 more - never hurt anyone. I'm grateful that the doors to AA were open when I hit my bottom and surrendered and by my attending them today, after a few 24 hours of sobriety, I can help ensure they are open for the next newly sober alkie. ((Manny/Marty)) While I respect your right to your opinion, I also feel you are doing a diservice to those newly sober or seeking sobriety. This is an EARLY SOBRIETY page where the newcomer should be encouraged and supported, not confused by what "doesn't work" for you anylonger. Just my unsolicited opinion...
Member: DebLH
Location:
Date: July 08, 2003
Time: 01:07 PM
Debbie, recovering addict\alcoholic, I know there are some alcoholics that seem to be able to live life without meetings and without drinking, I am not one of them, nor do I ever aspire to be. In early sobriety I needed meetings to stay sober, today I need meetings to stay sane. I enjoy meetings, I enjoy sharing and I enjoy listening, I appreciate that I'm part of something good, and that we need each other, I was a lonely drunk . I notice that the most common reason that people share when they come back from a slip, is that they stopped going to meetings. I need to be reminded of the wisdom of the twelve steps on a daily basis, and meetings are a tool I use to do that. God bless all of you new on this road of recovery, it does get better, just keep coming back.
Member: ted s
Location: pa
Date: July 08, 2003
Time: 02:03 PM
Hi. Ted. I'm an alcoholic. This is day 1. Thanks 4 being here.
Member: Kelly M
Location: NH
Date: July 08, 2003
Time: 05:47 PM
Hi All, Kelly an alcoholic. I have 10 months sober this week due to the grace of God and a little willingness on my part. If the saying, meeting makers make it then I'm a good example it works. I go to one to two meetings a day since I got out of rehab last October. I was told to do 90 in 90, I did 300 in 90! I was told to put in as much effort into AA as I did to my drinking. Since I was such a pathetic, low bottom drunk I took it seriously, hence all the meetings. I took suggestions and took coffee jobs and read the Big Book several times. I totally immersed myself into the program of Alcoholics Anonymous and it has paid me back in spades. I have such peace and joy, and as a bonus a life again. My mental obsession with alcohol is gone and the monkey is off my back. Of course this is all relative to my spiritual condition taking it one day at a time. I can slip anytime I decide to stop working the program or continue the action part of the program and that is the Steps. I went on a commitment last night and it was very obvious that I have a lot of work to do on Step 4 and 5. I still breakdown and weep sometimes trying to tell my story. I want to pass on a good message but I still am full of guilt, shame and remorse. Everyone understood and came up to me and offered support at break. The chip woman won a book and gave it to me. They were all so kind and it was not even my home group. I'm getting better but there is still the black hole inside of me that is not and won't be healed until I work through the fear doing the Steps. As uncomfortable as getting teary in front of a bunch of strangers is I need to continue sharing in meetings. Even if I feel totally exhausted after it is doing the soul work to get free of the 101 fears I harbor. I almost feel like a little kid being lead by the hand by God through this process. God knows I could not do this alone so he put AA in my life and at my most desperate point he heard me calling for help and gave me the willingness to embrace the program. With little effort on my part I am happy, joyous and free most of the time. I just met God half way and that is working my program to the best of my ability. I said last night when I spoke that I feel like a Christalis turning into a beautiful butterfly. I am a big metamorphasis! I think another cool thing about meetings is that people get hope seeing a new, haggard, drunk come in and in a matter of months become a happy sober person. The biggest compliment I can get in AA is when someone tells me I am a power of example to them. kind of makes it all worthwhile. Peace. Kelly
Member: Marty
Location: Aussie born and bred
Date: July 08, 2003
Time: 07:12 PM
And I Kim from Dridgewater feel you are the one doing a disservice to my fellow man by stating standard AA rhetoric without thinking. That is why I don't go and neither does anyone, new or not, in order to get sober. Meetings are not very important for a lot of people whether you believe they are or not. It instills hope for people to know they aren't bound to those ludicrous meetings forever, unless THEY choose to be. It's not what you or I say, it's what they each get to decide for themselves and they need to hear from more than just the "canned" stuff you and 99% of the rest of AA provide as viable options. There are millions of me's who've gotten sober in AA and progressed past the simplicity of it all to work for a more perfect union with God than "live and let live" garbage. If that's what you do fine, but you forcing it on others is what I despise and fight vehemently against. It's the only reason I pop-in here and regular meetings every now and then, to fight the good fight, run the good race, and stand for justice and righteousness. NOT the every-day bologny around AA and just don't drink, that really doesn't mean much in the end as it's only a mere beginning. God Bless ya if you think that's the end all and be all as you are in for rude awakening one day girl! Take care now, ya here??
Member: Jackie C.
Location: Louisiana
Date: July 08, 2003
Time: 10:15 PM
i've been in relapse for a while now.i never knew that i could always come here also.it's just been really hard for me to go back to my meetings.i have a lot of shame.but if i don't stop i will surely die.my disease has progressed to that point.and that's all i have for right now.thank all of you for being here for me.
Member: Karen P.
Location: Wrightsville & Atlanta, GA
Date: July 08, 2003
Time: 10:24 PM
Ted, congratulations on your first day. Keep coming back. Have you been to a meeting?
Member: mark m
Location: columbia tn
Date: July 08, 2003
Time: 11:09 PM
hey to all mark m here alcoholic to me meetings are the backbone of aa without them i wouldn't be sober today or the other 56 days kiss is the only why to go gad bless to all ps hello to my friend
Member: Timm
Location: Alabama
Date: July 08, 2003
Time: 11:42 PM
DAY ELEVEN. I don’t have any experience with meetings so I don’t have an opinion to express. I must admit that I have trepidations about attending (as I’m sure many do before attending their first meeting). I’ve located a local group that I plan to check out this Thursday evening; hopefully it’ll be a positive experience. <<mariab north florida>> This site has been helpful in getting me to day eleven, I hope it’ll be beneficial for you. It’s not always easy to think of something to say, but I encourage you to post here everyday. I’ll be watching for future posting from you to see how you are doing. <<ted s pa>> Welcome! Finally, someone with less time than me. Good luck. <<Jackie C Louisiana>> From personal experience, I know you’re not the only one to relapse. Please don’t give up, and try not to let your embarrassment, shame, pride, or whatever get in the way of doing whatever it takes get and stay sober.
Member: Anonymous Alcoholic
Location: 2689 Ridgecrest Dr
Date: July 09, 2003
Time: 05:51 AM
Going to meetings to me is like going to church or going to the fitness center. First, I need to keep going if I value the results I am getting. Second, I get to practice the activity (recovery, worship, exercise) while I am there. Third, being there with like-minded people, motivates me to practice the activity when I am NOT at that place too, i.e. in my home/work life. Thanks.
Member: Miguel
Location: Northern Calif.
Date: July 09, 2003
Time: 12:24 PM
Day 58 for me.. I've going to a lot of meetings. I have a sponser, started reading the BB, and just started the steps last week.. Just started 90 90. For me.. without meetings, I would still be drinking (period). Thank God for AA..
Member: mark m
Location: columbia tn
Date: July 09, 2003
Time: 12:53 PM
hey to all mark m here alcoholic and a pot head het MIKE H IN JACKSON MY MOM LIVES NEAR THERE AND I'LL BE THERE TODAY TILL SUNDAY (she lives in belleville(just off 94) and again at the end of july(irl race)i'm staying in spring arbor that weekend here is my email maybe we can hook up and talk some AA i found some AAmeetings in belleville but don't know anybody (it's hard for me to meet and talk to poeple kidmills117@aol.com
Member: lastgasper
Location: righthererightnow
Date: July 09, 2003
Time: 06:06 PM
meetings are where i go to say what i need to hear...im able to be as honest with myself during that hour ...more than any other time or place. the only times i need to go to a meeting is when i want to and wnen i dont want too! long as i dont drink inbetween those meetings i seem to do ok. go figure... peace out all
Member: Tom
Location: NY
Date: July 09, 2003
Time: 08:55 PM
Day 24. Haven't been to a meeting yet, but I haven't really wanted to either. Maybe someday. So far so good on the sobriety train. Best of luck to all.
Member: Karen P.
Location: Wrightsville & Atlanta, GA
Date: July 09, 2003
Time: 09:17 PM
Hi, my name is Karen, and I'm an alcoholic. I have about 18 months of sobriety now. No veteran, but my sponsor is encouraging me to do 12 step work. I can't get to a lot of f-2-f meetings, so I come here. If I can be of help to anyone, I'd like to. I've been where you new persons are, and the memories are still fresh. I think I can be a source of support and am willing to check in for messages every day. Getting started was hard; I drank for my first three months in AA, then went to detox and have been sober since (shook me up). If anyone is looking for a friend to help them through those rough early times, my e-mail address is Poelman@msn.com. Hope I can be of help. In the meantime, don't drink (no matter what), go to meetings, get a sponsor, and start on the steps. Yours in sobriety, Karen
Member: Pilar S
Location: CA
Date: July 09, 2003
Time: 10:43 PM
Hi all , I just found this page. I am on meds from my doc. xanax, restoril, lexapro 10mg, and vicoden ES 4 a day. I am so fearfull I wont leave my home or work. I need help please someone give me adice! I cant afford rehab
Member: Tracy
Location: Essex, England
Date: July 10, 2003
Time: 07:10 AM
((PILARS)) Don't drink and keep coming back!
Member: mariab
Location: north florida
Date: July 10, 2003
Time: 07:30 AM
Well, I haven't been able to be sober but I cut back (2 beers) for a few days then last night drank a bottle of wine. I feel miserable. But I guess today is a new day and I have to focus on that. The depression and shame are just horrible. I have to get ready for work and feel like I will not be able to concentrate, I'm so anxious. But it is a new day. Thanks for people's comments, I will not drink and keep coming back.
Member: Kelly M
Location: NH
Date: July 10, 2003
Time: 08:34 AM
Hi (Pilars), You are on a couple very addictive drugs that you should not drink with, but then you know that. I found a link that may be able to guide you to a free rehab in CA. Try : http://www.addict-help.com/ Good luck. Tim, Mark, Maria, Tom and anyone else new get to a meeting whether you think you need it or not. It is almost impossible for an alcoholic to quit alone. If you can't then keep coming back here and read your Big Book when you can. (The Doctors Opinion), is a good chapter to start. Hello to ((Diane and Karen P)) always good to here from you. Wishing everyone a great sober 24, Kelly
Member: Craig L (Dogmanor@yahoo.com)
Location: Aloha, Oregon
Date: July 10, 2003
Time: 10:10 AM
In early sobriety, I still had most of the fears; I had known all my life in addition the fear of drinking my way back to hell was there. I was a loner, had few social skills and had no clue how to stay sober, except to go to AA meetings. I used the meetings to occupy my time while the fog lifted. In the first few weeks out of detox I attended 5 meetings a day. The first year or more I attended 2 meetings a day and worked a full time job. Several sober years later I usually go to 1 meeting a day. Meetings were the one solid thing I could do before the steps started sinking in. Today when I’m squirrelly, a meeting always helps. Whether it’s a good or bad meeting in my mind, I walk away changed for the better. Today if a newcomer asks for my help, I recommend 90 in 90.
Member: Jill W.
Location: Birmingham, AL
Date: July 10, 2003
Time: 11:59 AM
Hello out there, I'm not sober but going to meetings. I have a very hard time with asking for help and I know that I need it. I'm very familiar with AA, was sober once for 5 years. Been in relapse for 6 years. I have not had a drink today and gonna try to keep it that way. Love this page.
Member: Tracy
Location: Essex, England
Date: July 10, 2003
Time: 02:03 PM
Hello ((JILL))
Member: Timm
Location: Alabama
Date: July 10, 2003
Time: 03:10 PM
DAY TWELVE. <<Pilar S CA>>. That’s quite a potent cocktail of drugs your doctor prescribed for you. Like <<Kelly NH>> said, at least a couple are highly addictive. The only advice I can give you is to be totally upfront and honest with your doctor; for example, does he know you have a drinking problem? Good Luck Pilar, and be very careful. <<mariab north florida>>, this is the second post in which you’ve mentioned depression. One of my problems has been that I tend to “self medicate” my depression and anxiety with alcohol. Have you sought help for your depression? Also, if your high-profile job makes attending meetings difficult, perhaps you should consider private counseling. There are counselors who specialize in addictions to drugs and alcohol. Whatever you do, keep coming back and keep us apprised of you progress. <<Jill W Birmingham, AL>>. Welcome. Good to see another Alabamian on the board. We seem to be on different tracks; I’ve been sober now for twelve days but I don’t go to meetings. I’ll make a deal with you, you don’t drink today and I’ll attend a meeting tonight. Good luck.
Member: MIKE
Location:
Date: July 10, 2003
Time: 05:03 PM
HI JILL I KNOW HOW YOU FEEL "ME TO" HARD TIME ASKING FOR HELP. SOBER 18 YEARS NO MEETING I HATE MEETING. DON'T WANT HELP FROM ANYBODY I CAN'T ACCEPT HELP IT MAKES ME FEEL LIKE A LOSER.AND IT WILL DRIVE ME TO DRINK AND I DON'T HELP ANYBODY.IF THEY WERE PASSED OUT ON THE GROUND I WOULD JUST WALK ON BYE. SORRY BUT GOD HELPS THOSE WHO HELP THEMSELFS ITS IN THE BOOK.I KNOW PEOPLE THINK I'M AND ANGRY PERSON MAYBE I AM.I JUST CAN'T TRUST ANYONE AND ALL THE HUGS AND KISSES AT THE MEETINGS MAKES ME SICK SORRY PEOPLE BUT THAT IS THE WAY I FEEL
Member: TOM
Location: NY
Date: July 10, 2003
Time: 09:20 PM
Timm, Congrats on day 12. I've been reading your posts since day 1. Good for you. Keep it up! Day 25 for me and so far so good. ((MICK))Hope you are well, drop us a line... Maria, I read here for a while. The only criteria is the desire not to drink. Good luck
Member: mariab
Location: north florida
Date: July 10, 2003
Time: 09:47 PM
<Timm>: I am on medication for depression which works if I don't drink. My doctor doesn't know about the drinking (typical, eh?). I do self medicate, that is how I got started down this road to perdition, at least I think so. Who knows? Doesn't matter anyway. I have the desire not to drink, <Tom, NY> and it is so comforting to have a place where I can be honest. Being an alcoholic means being a liar, which is horrible. Tomorrow will be a better day. I am going to try and pray now and get in touch with my HP. blessings to all, keep up the good work.
Member: Elizabeth D
Location:
Date: July 10, 2003
Time: 11:22 PM
I have not read all of these-- but "you can't fall off the wagon if you are in the middle of it" really struck me. I have to be part of the solution. I guess it starts with step one. To admit that I am powerless over alcohol and that my life has become unmanageable. I am a few days over two years sober from narcotics-- but that stupid alcohol! I am really trying-- or am I? yeah, yeah, yeah-- hanging in the theoretical. I guess I don't really qualify since I don't can't seem to get past step one... I know I can't keep it up- but I am not ready to give it up yet. What does it mean to be powerless-- does anyone ever really admit that? I know I need to- please help.
Member: mariab
Location: north florida
Date: July 10, 2003
Time: 11:33 PM
Elizabeth: I'm not quite sure I know what it means to accept powerlessnes, except that I do know that alcohol has the power to make me do almost anything. That's the way I see it. It runs (and ruins) my life. It takes away my will. That much I know. Hope that is helpful. I am at the stage you are, it sounds. Wanting sobriety but it slips through my fingers like fine white sand. Good luck, it is helping me to come here.
Member: buzzsaw
Location: detroit
Date: July 10, 2003
Time: 11:41 PM
I am not charged with my second DUI, and get this ... I blew a .27. That is bad, I go to pre-trial tomorrow, if I am lucky enough (pray for me please!) not to get jail, I will be under house arrest or have to have a breatlyzer everyday. I have been to about 10 meetings so far, before the court even ordered them, I drank afterwards each one. I guess I just don't totally get the steps, sponsor, higher power, big book yet ... no one explains it they just talk about how much they were drunks, how depressing is that and how the hell will that help me. I told them my stories that I am a drunk as well. Well this cognitive therapy, I think, will not work for me. I was curious about how to detox, or can I just stop drinking?! I am afraid to try to be honest. I was going to Detox myself, I have a prescription of Librium and naltrexone, the first for the withdrawals, the second for cravings. What do they do in detox? I have been taking alot of the vitamins (b1, C, amio acids, etc.) that alcohol depletes. I have got that information from herbs2000.com and a book on diet and exercise "how to quit drinking without AA". Well anyways, I have cut back quite a bit, but every night I give in. The day is coming when I will not be able to give into those cravings and be able to drink and if I do .... jail. I want to be ready, so I am trying everything. Thanks for you time.
Member: Stacy
Location: West Coast
Date: July 11, 2003
Time: 12:23 AM
Hi, Stacy, alcoholic, 94 days. Grateful to be on this site today. Has been one week since my last meeting. Am feeling the consequences of not going: self-doubt, anxiety, fears, self will running overtime, critical, irritable, edgy, self pity....etc, etc. I know the anectote is to go to a meeting. Husband not being supportive when I ask him to watch kids so I can get to a meeting. Leads to heated discussions/arguments which send my head into chaos! Budget not allowing for babysitter spending now. Asking friends, but they're not always available. Family not especially nearby. Need to stop obsessing, ask God to work out the details! I miss the meeting today. Being away is clearly my proof that I suffer from alcoholism. Without the meetings, my old behaviors and thought patterns creep in. Thanks for listening. Hoping to get to a meeting on Saturday. ((Newcomers)) Keep coming back, it really does work (when we work it!).
Member: Timm
Location: Alabama
Date: July 11, 2003
Time: 01:29 AM
STILL DAY TWELVE. <<Jill W. Birmingham, AL>> and <<Mike>>. I too have great difficulty in asking for help, which, when you think about it, is totally irrational. However, I don’t necessarily equate attending meetings with asking for help, any more than I equate posting on this site with asking for help. I attended my first meeting tonight and it was a very satisfying experience. I meet some very nice people, heard some interesting comments (open discussion), and had a couple cups of coffee; but neither I nor anyone else asked for help. I can’t begin to tell you how apprehensive I was about attending the meeting. I’m a somewhat social phobic, and the thought of walking into a room full of strangers (not to mention and AA meeting) is extremely anxiety inducing for me; consequently, throughout the day I conjured up about a half dozen reasons I should just blow the meeting off. I’m glad I didn’t. <<Tom NY>>. Thanks for the words of encouragement; they mean a lot. <<mariab north florida>> A couple of years ago, for depression and anxiety, I spent a combined total of about eight months with two different therapists; I never told either of them that that I was getting “faced” every night in order to get to sleep, so I can empathize with your reticence in telling your doctor. Just don’t lose that desire to stop drinking. BTW, “fine white sand”? you must live near the Gulf Coast.
Member: Jane C.
Location: Alaska
Date: July 11, 2003
Time: 01:48 AM
Jane here, an alcoholic....I am not having an easy time...this time aroud...I was sober for 18 years... with the help of meetings..I was one of the luckty ones...I saw much heartache in AA among other folks..I guess it's my turn now...while taking care of my dying husband the stress got to be too much...after about one year I picked up wine again..thinking I might be able to control it...sometimes I go for a long period of time...for me asbout 2 weeks and I feel really good about myself...then I get uptight and need to relax...so I tell myseld...I too am a happy drunk and so far it hasn't caused me trouble...i PRAY and ask GOD on a daily basis, but not going to meetinsgs.at least in early sobriety again is not good for any of us...many years ago when I finally got ober...I needed only a couple of meeting a week to get the message and read the Big Book a lot...( I just found it a few days ago ) I have as hard atime in groups..I have agoraphobia...I've had it since I was a teenager and only found out what was wrong when I reached the point of not being able ;to stand the way I was...I got hslp..but I still can't do groups... even at Church with my boyfiend I kind of stay away from socializing.. I'm grateful that he understands this and doesn't push me...I wish I could go to meetings here..but this problem along with the fact that I see in this town are gossiping about the people thay know that go to AA and seem to think it is OK...NOT ME I would never do that and I don't want the gossip that goes on....I only hope that this site will do it for me..I can't do it alone...I NEED YOUR HELP...Thank you all and God Bless You...
Member: mariab
Location: north florida
Date: July 11, 2003
Time: 07:14 AM
Oh, Jane (Alaska) I am so sorry about your husband. I understand your concerns about going to face to face meetings, as I have the same problem in my area. Some people say you should just bite the bullet and go, because it is your life that is at stake. I think overall people who are small enough to gossip about AA attendance actually respect recovering alcoholics more than active ones. What do you think? Aren't the folks in the liquor store or grocery store seeing you buy alcohol and so don't they know? It is a dilemma you need to solve--maybe those folks who are gossiping aren't so important, right? But in the meantime, you are not alone, you have us. Don't stop reaching out, this forum has been very helpful for me and I've just begun participating. It gives me peace and strength to come here before work and communicate. We CAN stay sober today. God bless you. <<timm--I do live near the Gulf Coast>>
Member: Ray V
Location: Woodstock Ontario Canada
Date: July 11, 2003
Time: 08:15 AM
Isn't this interesting.HI Jane, my name is Ray and I am an alcoholic, and after more than 17 years of very contented sobriety and AA involvement, I stopped going to meetings and association with my AA support. I move to a new town and just could not get back to the meetings. After all, I was sober. Then I stated making wine (for my friends of course). Before long I was having a glass with them. It was a few years before I began the alcoholic drinking and thinking. Here I am back to this wonderful fellowship of Love and Understanding. I came back to my first meeting on the 8th of july, tuesday past. I am experiencing the romance of recovery once more and at the age of 65 looking forwards to a new and better life. I also have to give myself time for the change of friends to happen and accept those who tell me I can't be an alcoholic. I kept it a pretty good secret. Let THEM talk. TO THINE OWN SELF BE TRUE fter saying this great truth, I feel great enough to stay sober one more day. God keep you sober this day. Love you all and like most of you. Ray
Member: Ray V
Location: Woodstock Ontario Canada
Date: July 11, 2003
Time: 08:42 AM
Isn't this interesting.HI Jane, my name is Ray and I am an alcoholic, and after more than 17 years of very contented sobriety and AA involvement, I stopped going to meetings and association with my AA support. I move to a new town and just could not get back to the meetings. After all, I was sober. Then I stated making wine (for my friends of course). Before long I was having a glass with them. It was a few years before I began the alcoholic drinking and thinking. Here I am back to this wonderful fellowship of Love and Understanding. I came back to my first meeting on the 8th of july, tuesday past. I am experiencing the romance of recovery once more and at the age of 65 looking forwards to a new and better life. I also have to give myself time for the change of friends to happen and accept those who tell me I can't be an alcoholic. I kept it a pretty good secret. Let THEM talk. TO THINE OWN SELF BE TRUE fter saying this great truth, I feel great enough to stay sober one more day. God keep you sober this day. Love you all and like most of you. Ray
Member: Kelly M
Location: NH
Date: July 11, 2003
Time: 10:35 AM
Hi Elizabeth, Being powerless for me was as in chapter one in the 12 and 12 where they mention (total defeat) 4 times. To me it was like the pain of drinking was so intense it was like surrendering in a war and waving the white flag. I had enough! I stopped fighting and only then could I embrace recovery. Good Luck and keep coming back. Kelly
Member: Diane
Location: Oklahoma
Date: July 11, 2003
Time: 02:52 PM
hi Diane here Day 108 sober my God is what helps me stay sober when ever I feel like drinking I pray.
Member: Johnson
Location: Colorado
Date: July 11, 2003
Time: 03:29 PM
Mariab, North Florida))) Ya don't say? I'm pleased to see ya here on the "newbie pot," as it's a fine place to start. I've been through the whole "high-profile" jo thingy too and yeah, it can really suck. But it can also be done, look at me. Not that I'm the greatest example, but I still struggle with that very issue after a number of years sober. Either way, the point is simple. Struggle sober or struggle drunk, either way, it's going to be in some sense a "struggle." I'm sure you can do it if I and all the numerous other "high profile types" have. Funnily enough, I'm from Fort Walton Beach and still trek down to see my family a couple times a year. Maybe we'll see each other on the "happy highway" one of these days. Peace and Blessings dear lady. Fight the good fight and all will be well...........
Member: JaneC.
Location: Aaska
Date: July 11, 2003
Time: 04:42 PM
Hi, Jane C. an alcoholic..back again...I hope to be here everyday..and hope ti be abke ti share some things I learned when I was sober...I felt Great...I looked great...I KNEW that I didn't say anything wrong...instead of just making a wreck of myself wondering If I said or did anything to offend someone...mostly I got teased a lot because I came out of my shell and the fears were gone and I could be relaxed and all of this made a perfect excuse for me to drink...NO there are no excuses and no reasons good enough to ruin our health and be filled with remorse over and over...this is day 2 for me..relapsing after 18 years of sobriety....I have to remind myseld of this every day...I did it once and I can do it again with help from God and all of you good folks.. I also heard in early AA that when we relapsee not to feel GUILTY.. it's a wast of time....just START OVER..I believe it now, because I don't feel guilt...I just feel that I let myself down and I doan't like the feeling....Mariab...just start over...you will be surprised when you get to SOBRIETY...it is such a great feeling and it's almost like a high...I just wish I could get out more and do meetings, but for now I'm going to work very hard at this site and pray to God that this if the answer for me....the people that gossip here are the same people that go to AA...they openly talk about it...which is OK if they keep the talk only about themselves..the trouble is that it seems they ALWAYS toss in someone else's name in the program...I don't care what other people wonder about me and until they see me drink too much or behave as if I have they really don't know...If I want folks to know, I would tell them mysef rather than having someone else do it for me...I trust AA for the most part and I know that it works...but there is always the risk of rlapse. I know that now and I never thought it would be ME....I'm so glad that I found this site..I am what I am.. an alcoholic.(there were many closet drinkers in my family...me among them)..I am going to see this through until the day I can truly say that though an alcoholic... I'm a very lucky, happy and grateful one....GOd Bless You all..
Member: Meme
Location: Herehere
Date: July 11, 2003
Time: 05:51 PM
Jane, you're being a little silly my sweet. You did not say anything wrong when you were sober? Come now, pray tell how one does so? I've been sober a long time and I am often thought of as provoking anger even though I rarely do so intentionally. That's not the point, sweetheart. You can say whatever you want without having to drink, however someone else may percieve it is their business. That's the point. Do not go into this with the false sense that all of life's going to "peachy keen" as you are only setting yourself up for a harder, longer fall dear lady. This is not going to solve all of life's problems, only maybe be an element of helping you to quit drinking once and for all. At least until we can all drink safely from the cup of the fruit of the vine once again. Peace and love for you dear woman.........
Member: Kay L.
Location: Charleston, SC
Date: July 12, 2003
Time: 12:18 AM
Hi, Kay - alcoholic. It is late and I am unable to sleep due to the fact that I have to get up at 4:30 a.m. est to go watch my daughter in a swim meet and then be baptized. I am in great conflict with the baptism. I have a spiritual relationship with my higher power which I chose to call God that I never in my 35 years found in a church. My daughter, of course, was taken from me by my ex during my addiction. Thank God - as I could not even take care of myself let alone a 9 year old.She lives 4 hours away and supervised visitation is my only option (which is the consequence of my addiction. I am 5 months sober today (my first attempt at sobriety and AA). I never go alone with my visits which are very few and far between (2-4 weeks). I guess I am wondering if there are some fellow AAer's out there tonight that can give me so words of encouragement. I want so badly to give my daughter support; however, how can I support her in something she does not understand and I don't agree with this at this point in my sobriety? Not going is not an option. Please help me and give me something that I may be overlooking. I thank anyone out there who can. (no pressure - just some help.
Member: Mary
Location: Minnesota
Date: July 12, 2003
Time: 12:59 AM
Kay, I'm going to be real practical here o.k. You could maybe consider getting some sleep first off. 4:30's gonna roll around real soon here and you're gonna need to be rested for this deal no matter what you decide to do and what goes down. Think all your options through and pray your butt off. Pray yourself to sleep tonight, get up in a couple hours praying as your eyes open to sound of that alarm clock and rock and roll. Pray some more on the way up/down there and pray some more!! Keep on praying and thinking about how to handle it as only you and God know all the little intricacies of the situation and nobody else can tell you what to do, it's up to you to do it. I know you can do it and I also know you'll be fine, so do you, somewhere in that brain and heart of yours. God's with you dear lady, don't doubt that for a second and whatever you decide the most important thing is you've already decided to go and face the challenge---BEAUTIFUL---Now you can do it sober and you'll have your daughter back in no time if you can face this crisis sober and look forward to the next the one as they are endless and very close together early on. I, make that WE, have faith in you and most importantly, so does God, so have a little in yourself baby. Please, think of your daughter and God and act upon those thoughts. Please let us know tomorrow or Sunday how it went as I'll be praying my heart for ya sweetie. God Bless you and your little girl...........
Member: Kerry C
Location: Texas
Date: July 12, 2003
Time: 01:17 AM
Hi everyone, Kerry here an alcoholic. Meetings are a very important part of my recovery. You see, early on my brain wanted me to believe that I couldn't quit drinking. I had to actually see that people really can quit drinking to believe it. The only place that I can physically witness that is at AA meetings. I can look into peoples eyes and see that they aren't bloodshot or 75% yellow. I can hold their hand during the Lords' Prayer and not feel the clamy sweats nor shaky hands. I can also tell who is drinking and attending meetings. That helps me to decide who has what I want, sobriety. I was also a very isolated drunk. Getting to meetings helps me to become a part of rather than apart from. Humans aren't meant to live in isolation and depression. People that know me at meetings can tell when something is bothering me even if I deny that something is wrong. As alcoholics we have to work with other alcoholics or risk our sobriety. It is very hard to convey sympathy and understanding without physically meeting with other alcoholics. For those that worry about the gossip going on about them for attending AA, you might want to consider the gossip going on about being seen at the liquor store daily, or stumbling around drunk, or weaving down the road, or the other 1000's of insane things we alcoholics do while drinking...And if you think that you are hiding it you might be very surprised how bad you really are at hiding it ;) Wishing everyone a safe and sober weekend!
Member: Kerry C
Location: Texas
Date: July 12, 2003
Time: 01:40 AM
Hi sorry for double posting but just saw your post Kay. I have had a similar situation as my ex-wife is raising our boys in the Catholic religon. I had similar feelings as yours when they went for their Confirmation and first communion. But my boys were very excited about the event as most of their friends were also attending and it was a very special occasion for them. I came to grips with it by realizing that God is a versitile God that reaches us all in different ways. There will be plenty of time for them to find God in their own way and for me to ruin the occasion for them by my feelings and actions wasn't fair to them. So pray as Mary suggested and be happy for your little girls sake tomorrow. You as well as I have precious little time with our children so we need to make it as good as we possibly can when we are with them. Now get some sleep and leave it with God...
Member: Jane C
Location: Alaska
Date: July 12, 2003
Time: 02:42 AM
Hi again..Jane c.here an an alcoholic....Meme.it was good to get your comments...but I think you misunderstood my meaning about not hurting anyone...it means that when I don't drink I know what I say and try not to say wrong things...only God knows the things that I have forgotten that I said when drunk...I only hoped that I didn't say ugly things...sometimes the thoughts were there however.. It's true that we are not responsible for how others take our remarks, but I'm not a social person I have a hard time with any kind of fellowship..I'm new to this site..but I can keep coming back here because I need to read all the things that are said here..at least here I feel that there is a lot of help to be had...especially for people that have a hard time with meetings... they were always hard for me... there were things that I had a hard time with...there was a lot of judging at some meetings and I saw and heard about the ones that killed themselves supposedly because they were TOLD so many things that they couldn't do...We were supposed to SHARE..not tell...we all have to get sober anyway that we can...at least that's the way I feel...I'm new again and I want it sooooooo bad.... I also saw the relapses of a lot of members and thought so many times how hard it must be for some people to stay sober when all we do is talk about alcohol...but for me...I hope that's the way it works..with getting rid of our selfcentered ways and other defects...may God my HP be there for all of us if you want Him...He's given a lot of us a lot of Grace...
Member: L-RAY
Location: SCOTLAND
Date: July 12, 2003
Time: 06:35 AM
Hi (((Kay))) read your share - my wife and i are foster carers and we have had kids who have had a parent with drink problems- its great when the parent gets sober and the child can go back to them first weekend visits then sometimes stay the full week ect! so you stick in there and your HP will make it work im sure! as for the church thing -i was brought up Catholic, i got divorced and when i met my present wife Sheila she was a Babtist so we were married in the church , i was willing to change! now after 9years this 23rd july we have two sons who go to a non catholic school and here in Glasgow support the opposite Soccer team but i live and let live, ive no control over there thinking so i let go! and the stick im getting as there team won all the honours this year! so Kay stay focused and be safe Regards L-RAY
Member: mariab
Location: north florida
Date: July 12, 2003
Time: 09:37 AM
Hey, Mariab here: 1 day sober! I'm going to the beach with my daughter and a friend and her daughter. What a wonderful morning. (Johnson), nice to meet you. Yes, the high profile job issue and going to meeetings is problematic. It's not like I'm a celebrity or anything that, but the professional repercussions would be, I fear, draconic. Actually, if I was a celebrity I could prob. do whatever the hell I want. Thanks to everyone, enjoy your Saturday, I am not going to drink. Good luck to all the other newbies, we can do it. I woke up filled with joy and peace.
Member: Chris H.
Location: Fla.
Date: July 12, 2003
Time: 01:42 PM
I'm chris--I'm an alcoholic/addict. ...Meetings....I had to miss my meeting this week and boy did I have a hard time with living life...someone said that A.A. is ATTITUDE ADJUSTMENT..for me that is so true...I have, as do many alcoholics, a great propensity for depression. The wisdom and perspective I get from others who are in the program helps me so much..IT helps me to change my negative thinking and to love myself as I am.It helps me to realize that I'm o.k. and to not beat myself up all the time...That only leads to depression and then eventually to the drink. THere are so many other things that I learn from others at the meetings...that I just cannot list them all here...I WILL be at my meeting this Monday morn...what a fantastic way to start the week!!! Until next week...
Member: Sherry R.
Location: Walnut, Ks.
Date: July 12, 2003
Time: 05:37 PM
Hello, I'm Sherry. This is day 19. I just found this site today, I'm glad I did. I've been a beer drinker for about 20 years. The past 6 years my drinking got worse and started causing lots of trouble in my life. I finally realized that it's time to quit. I can't just drink a little bit, or just drink once in a while. I always end up drinking till I pass out and do the same thing again a day or two later. I'm tired of it and so is everyone around me!!! If I can help others some how I would like to do so. Staying sober is sometimes hard to do. Talking about it helps. hidden_angel36@yahoo.com
Member: mariab
Location: north florida
Date: July 12, 2003
Time: 07:23 PM
Hi everyone, mariab here. I just passed an important test: went to the supermarket and didn't buy any wine. It is like the devil tempting me to pass by that section of the store. You see, I'm a "secret" nighttime drinker, mostly after my daughter goes to bed. Or I WAS!! I had to go food shopping and I knew this was it. I prayed to my higher power and when I was in the store I ran into a former neighbor who was AA who knows about my problem. I was proud not to have any alcohol in my shopping basket and came home clean. Hopefully, tomorrow will be day 2. Blessings to all.
Member: IgnacioP
Location: NewYork
Date: July 12, 2003
Time: 11:15 PM
Hi I'm Ignacio and I'm an alcoholic. I have been sober for 33 days. I am in an outpatient program and just started attending meetings. I was very reluctant at first and it was hard to get to them because of my work hours (3:30 PM to 11:30 PM. Last Sunday, I attended a small meeting in my neighborhood. It made me feel good. I promised I would go to the other one at 12:30 PM next Monday. Monday and Tuesday went by and I always found an excuse. Tuesday, I said I would go to a midnite one and didn't because I had a fight with my wife the night before. We were supposed to talk but she showed up later...drunk. She said about four weeks ago that she couldn't take my drinking and pot smoking anymmore that she wanted out. Yet, we would leave together until I got my Green Card. A week after that I threw away the pot and promnised not to drink anymore. Two days later I was at my first appointment at the Outpatient program. After I started attending meetings, my suspicions that she has a problem also were confirmed. Also, my counselor thinks. We had a meeting with my counselor and he referred us to couples counseling. After the first meeting, we started discussing leading an adult life and doing things that didn't involve drinking. Unfortunately, that is the only counseling session that we have had since the counselor went on vacation. I want her to see what this 30 days of sobriety have done for me. I hope she would realize her problem and join me in reconstructing our lives. She keeps going out almost every night and there is nothing I can do about it. The two midnite meetings that I attended last week have helped me not to get caught up in her craziness. This week I decided to move out so we could keep a cordial relationship. I am know at my friends for the weekend in Massachussets, almost 4 hours away from home. I called her and she is not in. This is driving me crazy and even though my friend and his buddys have been drinking all night I did not pick up. I feel very stressed though and that is why I am writing this post. I apologize for the lenghtiness but I have no where to turn. I will check shortly to see if anybody can give me any encouragement. It has helped to read the other posts. thanks to all for sharing.
Member: Becca
Location: California
Date: July 12, 2003
Time: 11:56 PM
Wow, this is a great site. I'm new here to AA and this site. 103 days. IgnacioP, hang in there! You are doing a great job. The only person you can change is you. And you are making the effort. The rest will fall in place. I know it must be hard, but remember IT STARTS WITH YOU! Keep going. You will see results. Just look down at your own feet, no one elses. You are being so brave and strong to do this. You should be very proud of yourself.
Member: Kerry C
Location: Texas
Date: July 12, 2003
Time: 11:58 PM
IgnacioP hang in there. In times like you are describing the Serenity Prayer is a powerful tool we have. "God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference." Although you are in a vulnerable location at least you haven't used yet. Remember you can only keep yourself sober or drunk. Drinking will only make the situation worse than it is. Ask your higher power for the strength to make it through this tonight. Prayer has amazing results if we believe. I'll hang out for awhile if you need to talk.
Member: Becca
Location: California
Date: July 12, 2003
Time: 11:59 PM
Hi, I had to write again, to Jane. Your share was a gift from God. I too suffer from agoraphobia and found alcohol hiding it more and more. Now that alcohol is gone, I'm really trying to heal. I'm doing the steps and trying to go to as many meetings as I can. I go at least 3 times a week, with my sponsers or friends that can take me. I struggle with the panic attacks but I'm having faith that staying sober and doing the steps will help me through. Thank you so much for your share! It was nice to hear someone else with my similiar woes. Sometimes it's better, and than there are days I get so scared. But I hang on.