Kjell

I once heard that the cure for shame is vulnerability.

When you stop and think about it, sorta makes sense.

I don't know why, but I've felt shame deep in my bones, even before I was able to identify it as, shame.

Of course, my drinking and drugging, especially lately, is failing to mask it whatsoever, and most certainly adds/creates/drowns me in even more.

Any advice on how to begin, again?

Kjell

Amajorityofone

Friend-

Astronomical changes often come from tiny beginnings. Thus, can you stop drinking and drugging for just, one, day? That's all i ever ask of myself.

Food for thought

courage2

I think it's reasonable to regret wrong actions especially if they hurt others, but you don't need to feel ashamed. Anything you have done, we're all capable of doing. It's humanity -- when you look at it up close, naked, and from every angle, it's not always pretty. But it's not shameful, just real.

I hope you get out of the shadow & confusion of drugs and booze & learn to appreciate yourself, warts & all.

Goldcoastgirl

Uggh shame is the worst. It is such a hard feeling to describe to people who haven't felt it. We need to forgive ourselves first and know that we are not bad people, we just sometimes make stupid choices. Don't beat yourself up any more, it doesn't help. Give yourself a hug instead x

Dee74

I know you're a smart guy KJell.

The journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step...you get one day clean, then two..then three

I know it's a big thing to contemplate - but continuing to do something you find shameful is not going to make you feel less ashamed.

D

least

Start with today. Stay sober for today. Worry about tomorrow when it gets here. As to the shame, that will dissipate with more sober time. You must learn to forgive yourself. Treat yourself as kindly as you would treat someone else.