Thank you, Everyone. This forum is a valuable asset with a practical purpose that can do a lot of good for so many, and the people here make that possible. Thanks Anna and Dee for keeping this place the safe zone that it should be. May we all gain even more growth in sobriety this coming year. Newcomers, hang in there and keep trying. Few of us got it right the first time. There is hope. For us alcoholics the joy in life without alcohol is real, an experience that normies will never know. Granted that hardly puts us one up on normies, but it is a silver lining in a dark cloud that we didn't ask for.

Congratulations on 27 years of sobriety DriGuy :)

That's how I saw it in early recovery. Five years seemed colossal, but more than 25 was a wonder that was hard to imagine. It's not hard to imagine anymore, and oddly it doesn't seem colossal, either. You just reach a point where you change your approach to life and time just passes. But it was those old timers, all of whom were genuinely happy, that really drove home the fact that sobriety was a blessing, rather than a sacrifice. I remember taking my ques from them, and deciding that was where I would eventually be. Of course, there's pride in 27 years, but more than that, there is simple joy and contentment. I worked hard in early recovery, but less and less as time went by. Sometimes I still have to work hard, but there is no resentment in having to do it. I enjoy those times when I confront and solve my problems. It makes me feel confident and grown up (which is about time at my age).

So many of us were reliant on your strong, steady words in our early days, DriGuy. I'm still new at this, but I took the leap you and the other milestoners offered- HAVE FAITH- and I hope many, many more will do the same.

Some words
 

Congratulations on 27 years.

I recognise wisdom in your posts as to me, they are clearly borne from experience. Further, when you do write or reply, I spend ample time to contemplate your words.

Early on, I was told "model yourself on someone..." (in the rooms) "who seems to have it figured out, who is confident and untroubled". These were and are wise words. When you write, you fit the bill and description. I hasten to add that, just like the rest of us (alcoholic or addict or other), you have problems which need addressing as and when they happen, I mention this only to support my belief you are a wealth of knowledge for all. The newcomer, the not-so-new(comer) and everything else. You do not aim to present a life of perfection, but one of contentedness - arguably this is perfection (?)

You help a great many people on this site, I am one of them. I appreciate you and your posts.

Thank you and again, well done on a truly magnificent milestone.

Wonderful posts and responses, Driguy

Thank you, so glad you found SR and donate your thoughtful wisdom and stories.

Wow, that's amazing. And thankyou so much for your support and input. I'm thankful that you're still coming onto the forum to help those of us who are still struggling. It's heartening to know that it really can be done :)

Congrats on 27 years Driguy

❤️

That's amazing! A veritable lifetime now. Congrats!

I'm very grateful that you continue to share your experience, strength, and hope here, DriGuy.

Thanks for being a HUGE part of our community. You are helping folks you'll never meet, and I think that's an awesome lifestyle choice. Congratulations!!!

Congratulations. Such a long time. A great example to others.

Amazing accomplishment DriGuy :)

Unbelievable accomplishment! Congratulations you are an inspiration to us all!

Congrats on 27 years.