A word from our sponsor

I’ve just observed the 8th anniversary of my sobriety. No drink to celebrate (smile), just an acknowledgment of a gift to myself that keeps giving back, each and every day.

I don’t know who or how many knew I had a problem. My ex did, of course. He was there to witness the daily ritual that started with a single glass of wine to relax at the end of the day and ended with a two-bottle-a-day habit that was ruining my life.

I was sick all the time. My work suffered, my relationships suffered, I suffered. I tried cutting back, but it seemed I had only two drinking buttons, On and Off. Choosing Off was not easy. Most of my social interactions involved a certain amount of alcohol, even the healthy ones. Because when the run was over or the race completed, many celebrate with a drink. So for a while, I felt like a freak.

I’m happy to say that the feeling has long ago been put to rest. I am a healthier, happier, kinder and more compassionate human being now that alcohol isn’t screwing up my system. I go to bed at night secure in the knowledge that I will not wake up hungover…again. I don’t have to worry about late-night calls from friends who need help. I can drive anytime, anywhere. I think straight…well, most of the time.

Do I miss it? Sometimes. I used to drink for the feeling but now I miss the cold, crisp sip of white wine, or the refreshing effect of one single beer on a hot summer day. Strangely, I do not miss my drink of choice – red wine- in the least! I hope that’s progress.

I’ve never written about sobriety before, and I’m not sure what makes me do it now. Perhaps an attempt to be real. And now back to our regular program…