[Alera]

MrRommel, I'm glad you are going to give SMART a try. One thing I learned though is that it can be a bit harder without the physical support. When I started SMART I told those I trusted that I am quitting, so that they understood my moods and could offer support. I also set aside time every day to work my tools so that I had one less "out" to take the easy way and start using again.

Originally Posted by Stamps43

I preface this by saying all due respect to those who do believe in a god and I do have my own spiritual beliefs but sobriety for me has nothing to do with a "higher power" intervening.

I am successful at not drinking because I made a choice and a commitment because I saw the positive in it. I have my struggles with it like anybody else and I know I have people around me who care but I don't stay sober because of what someone else would want including the assumed feelings of a god or what not. I feel like this idea of surrendering to a "higher power" takes away from an individual's confidence in their own accomplishments.

Believe in yourself first and foremost. This above all things creates a paradigm in which all things are possible.

Stamps, no offense taken. I am quite religious yet I feel my sobriety has very little to do with a higher power "intervening".

In fact, your post got me thinking and I wrote this new thread: http://www.soberrecovery.com/forums/...ml#post1831743 (Random Thoughts on Being Religious in Secular Recovery)

I would love to hear your comments on it.