The "I"
 

Hello. I've been in a worsening state of decline for 40 years due to alcohol. I want to get sober. But the I that seems the real me, controlling almost my every thought does not at all. So I could be in for a fight.

[QUOTE=RuneStone;6488876]But the I that seems the real me, controlling almost my every thought does not at all. /QUOTE]

Welcome.

I say the real "I" in you does want to be sober. It is your addiction that doesn't. Read up on Addictive Voice Recognition Technique (AVRT) and Rational Recovery. That will strengthen the Real I.

Thanks Carl. I'll read up on AVRT. But for so long my addiction is indistinguishable from myself. It's the truth. I might as well get it out there.

Runes- that is why I needed/still do need daily support. I would suggest you see a doctor- and BE COMPLETELY HONEST- to get a physical. Maybe detox (dangerous to go cold turkey- I had life threatening seizures), perhaps rehab? Also I see a counsellor regularly, a psychologist (for the why's) and attend AA meetings. SMART is good. SR is my lifeline at night... Support to you. Perhaps join the 'Class of June 2017;- for people new to here this month?

After 4 decades of drinking I was sick and tired of it. I decided to walk into a meeting three years ago and that has made all the difference. Of course that I is ego which manifested in me as self will run riot controlled all aspects of my life.

Today many changes in my perceptions allow me to live a life that is much less self centered. The I melded into you, mostly. Around 2-3 months of sobriety and the obsession to drink left me by working a structured program.

Seeking the help I needed, being willing with honesty with an open mind were the precursors to sobriety for me.

Welcome - lots of friends here have found a way out of the daily grind. You can as well.

There are great threads about AVRT right here on SR in he Secular Connections forum.
wish you well and hope to see you around

I'm an AA-er and one of the big things I have learned to work on is "getting things away from the I." It' not all about me- not being a victim- thinking of what others need vs what I need.....those are big concepts and came well after I made the decision to be DONE drinking, for good.

It really was one step at a time for me as I was very sick when I quit. I didn't waiver on my decision one bit, but I had no idea what would come in sobriety. I do know that my life is better than I could ever have imagined.

Not drinking - today- starting a program - repeat, repeat, repeat.

Hope to see you around here. The Class of June thread is a great place to start.

1. It's not as bad as your addiction is currently telling you it is.
2. AVRT will help you recognize the difference between you and your addiction.

Linky: http://www.soberrecovery.com/forums/...ined-long.html

Best of Luck on Your Journey.