Originally Posted by
Meraviglioso 
I think today I have realized the key to my success will be changing my mindset on this. I cannot think of this as a loss anymore. I can't let myself feel deprived or as if I am missing out on anything. I have to face this in a more positive way.
This is bang on, Mera. You get to look at this whole issue in any of a hundred different ways, and it would make sense to look at it in a way that gives you the best chance of kicking this.
When you come to understand that
any life free of alcohol has joy and peace and beauty in it with a little happiness, and
every life with addiction has depression and sadness and shame and guilt and darkness, your way forward will be clear.
You can choose to quit drinking for good, no matter what. Your AV has no power to control your actions, you have all of that. Onward!