Hi Joe,
I didn't get the shakes, I didn't steal, I still washed and have a stable life on the outside. But, i realised that I drank much more than I wanted to, that I often couldn't stop once started, and that I often had no intention to drink and ended up doing so. In short: Drinking makes me unhappy and I don't approve of the person I become when drinking.
I have also realised that I can't moderate my drinking. So today I choose a sober lifestyle. And I go to AA because there are other people there living a sober life. I unhumbly think that I am not only lucky but also fairly smart for quitting and seeking a recovery program before I loose everything. I'm not saying I would - but I am quite sure I could end up in a nasty place if I continue to drink.
vee