The intensity of the cravings will diminish with time, although 2 years 10 months sober they haven't entirely went away. Actually drinking/using is an option I now have but I don't consider using it at all. Giving it all up took me forever but I am better off without using, that I cannot deny. At first "admitting" things was humiliating and I was suprised how quickly I got over that. The shame and guilt have practically vanished, and the reason for that is I don't do guilty, shameful things anymore. Never giving up is the best attitude have, I didn't. Good luck, rootin for ya.
