The plumber called today
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: May 2019
Location: UK
Posts: 3,937
The plumber called today
Plumber’s aren’t supposed to be working just yet. My hot water tank had been leaking over the weekend so I called mine for advice. He thought it sounded urgent so came this afternoon.
I got to know him quite well over the years as my place is old. There was always something leaking somewhere, but largely thanks to his efforts, there had been no leaks for over two years, until this weekend.
The last time he saw me I was 240lbs and had a hangover. Today I could see his shock, even from behind his Covid mask. He so wanted to ask why I was at least 40lb lighter. I notice people don’t ask. Maybe such a weight loss could be due to an illness in some.
So I had to move some kit to give him access, and he admired my Trek road bike.
“It’s my triathlon bike.” I told him.
He looked relieved and smiled. “I was going to say, you look great”.
He’s in good shape being a cyclist and having an active job. He said he probably drinks too much but not every day. I was glad he added that last part. I told him I stopped drinking and did exercise, and nature did the rest.
I must have looked a state to him before. And I was. He asked if I was happier now I was healthier. I didn’t go into the alcoholic part too much, but I told him I could bore him for at least a day with positive changes over the last 18 months.
I’m an average guy, but even I’ve amazed myself since I stopped drinking. Everyone who stops will have positives. I could still be a boring drinker, but there’d be no pleasant surprises ever again.
I got to know him quite well over the years as my place is old. There was always something leaking somewhere, but largely thanks to his efforts, there had been no leaks for over two years, until this weekend.
The last time he saw me I was 240lbs and had a hangover. Today I could see his shock, even from behind his Covid mask. He so wanted to ask why I was at least 40lb lighter. I notice people don’t ask. Maybe such a weight loss could be due to an illness in some.
So I had to move some kit to give him access, and he admired my Trek road bike.
“It’s my triathlon bike.” I told him.
He looked relieved and smiled. “I was going to say, you look great”.
He’s in good shape being a cyclist and having an active job. He said he probably drinks too much but not every day. I was glad he added that last part. I told him I stopped drinking and did exercise, and nature did the rest.
I must have looked a state to him before. And I was. He asked if I was happier now I was healthier. I didn’t go into the alcoholic part too much, but I told him I could bore him for at least a day with positive changes over the last 18 months.
I’m an average guy, but even I’ve amazed myself since I stopped drinking. Everyone who stops will have positives. I could still be a boring drinker, but there’d be no pleasant surprises ever again.
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: May 2019
Location: UK
Posts: 3,937
Originally Posted by Mamatembo 
Very inspiring story.
You should be proud, hodd.
You should be proud, hodd.
My plumber’s a very nice guy, and I could see he was really pleased I’d changed my ways. We can all do that with a bit of effort and help.
And anyone on day one, week one or month one thinking I’m different, it was only 17 months ago I was wondering how I’d spend every evening for the rest of my days feeling so anxious and agitated without my alcohol.
It’s complete rubbish to say we need alcohol to relax. That’s a sign alcohol has you by the balls. If you keep away from it long enough, it realises that grip.
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: May 2019
Location: UK
Posts: 3,937
Originally Posted by MaximusD
Great story hodd. So he is also a cyclist?
Keep up the good work, Max. Your posts are being read, and you’re inspiring others.
Member
Join Date: Feb 2020
Location: Eastern US
Posts: 1,386
Originally Posted by Hodd
A different style of cyclist but yes. More importantly, he’s a drinker but a moderate one who can take or leave it. That sort of drinking is fine, but not for any of us reading as we’ve crossed a line at sometime in the past.
Keep up the good work, Max. Your posts are being read, and you’re inspiring others.
Keep up the good work, Max. Your posts are being read, and you’re inspiring others.
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: May 2019
Location: UK
Posts: 3,937
Originally Posted by MaximusD
Thank you Hodd! He did say he thought he drank too much. He might be a problem drinker too.
Maybe he’ll be inspired by my weight loss and cut down, but I don’t think he’s dependent from what he said. I’m not anti-alcohol as such as long as people drink moderately and don’t push others to drink.
Currently Active Users Viewing this Thread: 1 (0 members and 1 guests)
