I remember sitting in an AA meeting when I was around 2 years sober, I think.
There was a guy in that meeting that had 35 years sober. One of my friends asked how do you stay sober for 35 years?
I was expecting the most deep and profound answer.
But, what he said was, "Don't drink and don't die!"
We laughed at the answer. Well, that is true.
What I have found is, though that is true, technically, it's not a good plan.
When I came to AA, I was a God hating atheist. I wanted nothing to do with God. But, I knew that my life depended on getting and staying sober.
I had several sponsors that I fired because they didn't do anything for me. I'm not suggesting that you fire a sponsor because you don't like that they ask you to do stuff for your recovery. At the same time, I didn't need someone in my life who had the title of sponsor. I fired several because they didn't work the program with me.
When I finally found the guy who worked the steps with me, he made it hard and expected me to do them. I'm grateful to this day.
Well, today I have 35 years sober. I can report that I didn't drink and I didn't die, but there is so much more.
This former atheist is now a pastor.
I have worked the steps and still take inventory of myself.
Though I have no desire to drink, I am well aware that if I have 1 today, everything I love will be gone in less than 30 days, including my life.
I have a family who loves me, a wife of 25 years and 2 adult children.
They are well aware of my past and have heard many lessons from that past, but they know nothing of that man who doesn't exist anymore.
Though I have gone through many challenges and struggles through the years, I can tell you that I am living happy, joyous, and free.
I have never regretted sitting on my hands and feeling like, if I don't drink, then I'll die, and choosing not to drink anyway, regardless of the cost.
I want sobriety and freedom for you as well.
If you are struggling, it isn't easy, but it's worth it.
God bless you all.
If you read this far, thank you for celebrating with me.
5/30/90