wpainterw

I'm not particularly concerned with the history of the disease concept of alcoholism or the charge made by some of its critics that it was put forth and promoted for ulterior motives, largely financial. In this I am reminded of T.S. Eliot's opener in his early poem, "The Love Song of Alfred J. Prufrock":

Streets that follow like a tedious argument
Of insidious intent
To lead you to an overwhelming question. . .
Oh, do not ask, "What is it?"
Let us go and make our visit.

Thus it seems to me best not to dwell on what alcoholism really "is", at least if that prevents addressing the main question, namely "Now that I have it, what am I going to do about it?" If so, it may be appropriate to "make a visit", e.g to a rehab, a detox and/or a support group. There comes a time when it is wise to put down the books, the history, end the debate and get busy finding how to "get out of this place" (as the popular song goes).

W.