Originally Posted by Lost3000

Hey everyone, thanks for all the well wishes.

To those who asked, AA was my solution. I had tried countless times before, but everytime 5PM rolled around I found myself at the bar. When I decided to quit for good, I told my husband I had a serious problem, and was serious about quitting for good, something I've never really admitted to him before.

I asked him to remove the booze from our house when I wasn't around, and then I went to AA and never looked back. I did just about everything suggested, got a sponsor, did the 12 steps. I met with her once per week, every week. And now that we've gone through the steps, I don't formally meet with her but I make a point of either talking with her or another alcoholic several times per week. I attend AA mtgs almost every day of the week, an average of 6 times per week.

I read every morning from the Daily Reflections. Every night I either write or reflect upon my day, my conduct. I volunteer regularly, and on a day to day basis, I try to look outside of myself and see how I can help others. Even tiny things like forgiving the guy who cut me off in traffic are a good gesture. When I slip up and act like a witch to someone, I try very hard to apologize as soon as I realize it. I spend a lot of time self-reflecting, and trying to live in the moment. I was so serious before, so now I try hard to laugh more and relax. It comes a lot easier to me now. And the deep dark pit of sadness I had before is gone.

You can click on my name and see my posts from last year. I struggled a lot, I didn't like what a lot of people said to me here, but they were all right.

Good luck to everyone out there on SR - life is so much better on this side.

Originally Posted by Thepatman

Now you should hange your name to WON3000!!!

Originally Posted by Junebugapril

Thanks for writing that down for us. For me, as a newbie, it was very helpful to hear. The forgiveness thing must be very important. I guess if we learn to forgive others, we can forgive ourselves.

Originally Posted by rochele

What a great story. I hope your new job is better and you feel comfortable there. Great for you for taking action. Congrats on the 11 months!

Originally Posted by bryangt

Great message of Hope for all to absorb. You are working the program and it shows. This is the first time I've read your posts, but I am very impressed with your progress. Newcomers will want what you have! Keep up the great work! God Bless!