Untoxicated

People are the importance of life...

I had just gotten off the phone with a buddy, and I say "buddy" loosely as I've only met him a few times through another friend. I decided to call him up today to see how he was because we've always gotten along.

I was amazed at how much we had in common, and three hours later - three hours!, I hung up the phone and have a new workout partner. It's amazing how it felt to connect with him.

I hadn't realized how much of a void I had in my friendships until that void started to fill.

I imagine this is a bit like AA and recovery. The people are what make recovery possible...OTHER people. The steps, the meetings, the recommendations...all of it is NOTHING without the people that are willing to accept you into their lives.

This was a big life lesson for me today. I don't like asking for help, I typically use alcohol to get through tough times and I do it alone - despite people offering their company.

I'm not suggesting anyone go to AA because I don't go myself. But I am suggesting that I'm starting to think it may be a good idea.

People are the importance of life...

intention

Hi Untox,

I have found the people in AA warm, friendly, genuinely interested.......it's a real difference to what I am used to, if you know what I mean.

Connecting with the people in AA has been very, very good for me and I am making myself do it more.

I am glad to hear you are doing well and reaching out of your isolation. Did you really spend 3 hours on the phone? I thought only us women did that :rotfxko

Untoxicated

Falling victim to what society dictates as correct gender behavior is failure to grow in my opinion.

Our greatest weaknesses (isolation) are also our greatest strengths (independence).

Have a great day!

least

Friendship is indeed very important. I value my friends, here and in real life, and appreciate them. Now that I don't drink, I value my friendships more cause I'm not sitting home alone drinking anymore. I'm actually liking being a member of society again!

Untoxicated

I hear you least and I'm so glad you shared that - it is nice being with other people. I assumed most people who were alcoholics were introverts, but as an extrovert, I feel that alcohol changes you in ways you don't anticipate. I became introverted and recluse.

Amazing that I didn't even know the void was there until it started to fill.

Dee74

I never reached out. I rarely connected.
People here saved my life and help keep me sober

D

CarolD

Friendships in AA? I could write a book on how valuable
our mutual connection is. It's been a win win situation....

By living the 12 Steps...I've also improved my family interaction
and social contacts.

While isolation is not part of my history....the strong bonds
of AA fellowshiping has been a positive force for good.

Glad to know you are forming new friendships in sobriety.

Untoxicated

Carol,

If my only request before going to AA was that you wrote that book would you do it?

This isn't nearly as much as a deal as it is really wanting to know the real CarolD. I guess in some ways it's me wanting you to be with me forever Carol.