FSquared

I'd slap the sh*t out of my self-centered, egotistical, selfish self.

(Yes, that's a lot of SELF in there...and I've been giving it too much for too long).

Untoxicated

Broken beyond your repair...

(That's a bit of a touchy subject for me because it implies there is no hope for the person struggling with addiction).

Great replies all, thank you so much for providing them. I created this thread with the intention that it would help those who are suffering unnecessarily much as my ex-gf did with me. (Oddly enough it was me who left her in order to get and stay sober, strange times indeed). Thanks again.

nodaybut2day

Touché, Untoxicated. I don't often think of "the other side" of my own equation, because my XAH wasn't just an alcoholic and a drug user. He was an ex-con who made his way through the world by using women, who was verbally and emotionally abusive, who entertained frigthening delusions of grandeur about himself and his "progeny", and who, in his delusions, was planning in a detailed way his brother's murder. Obviously, there's more to him that his addictions, which is why I consider him a lost cause. He is not a thing like you, who has found recovery and continues to seek further understanding through SR. I respect that thoroughly.

justjo

This thread interested me because it was only yesterday that I said to myself -
"Why dont you just do what your heart is telling you"

Thumper

I thought about this during my road trip today. I think I'd tell myself. Know yourself, know your boundaries, know your values and do not budge. Do not let loose of one inch of your boundaries. If you say you will not live with something - do not live with that something. Protect them, for they surround your soul and your happiness.

If I could have done that I think I'd have made different decisions even if I didn't have it all figured out yet.

fourmaggie

this is a wonderful thread....thank you all for sharing....and I am LEARNING from you all....

brokenheartfool

I'd say--Who you kiddin'? Nothing in this world is free.

Untoxicated

Bumping this thread for my homies in Friends and Family.

Verbena

I almost left my AH 15 years ago.

I didn't leave. I let a window of opportunity slip by me. I regret not leaving. But I didn't know then what I know now about alcoholism.

I'd have said to my old self, "Girl, get your running shoes on and get out the door while you can." I was in better shape financially then.

Shellcrusher

Get your head out of your ass.
Promptly followed by one of these ->

Jazzman

I probably would not have listened to myself. I saw enough red flags and I didn't listen to my self then! Some lessons in life you just have to learn the hard way. But the good news is now when I see red flags I listen to myself but good! LOL!!

Shellcrusher

I think you're right, Jazzman. Way to be honest and real.

djayr

Alcoholism is baffling and powerful. Don't ever think it is fixed and it might get better, but it just as easily could get worse.