steve11694

I had become a regular at multiple open AA meetings/various locations. Eventually I felt I was gaining more insight into alcoholism. Just think of how enlightening Laurie's posts are as she shares what went through her mind while drinking. I attained great insight and understanding as I became a regular. I also made friends and I can tell you there are some great people in recovery. Besides alanon, aa, I also went to counseling where the focus was how to live/deal with an alcoholic.

There was also an ongoing group hosted by a local rehab center therapist. She was great and gave us (parents, spouses, children, families and friends of addicts) a lot of understanding. We also shared our stories and she'd comment and we as a group discussed it. We did not know anyones last names, but honestly, the people there were so dismayed they really didn't care about anonymity, just insight. At Alanon you cannot discuss what is shared nor seek advice/opinions uhless it is after the meeting.

I recall one fathers story in particular; his 16 year old daughter had managed to conceal her pregnancy as she carried small and wore certain clothing. The family was soul searching because she they thought she was was using "ice". One evening they heard a baby crying at home. Their daughter had non nonchalantly given birth(7 months) in the bathroom and was exiting the house to smoke "ice"

Still Waters

Oh Steve, those stories are just heartbreaking. I heard many of them during the family days at my AH's rehab.