I am celebrating 19 years of wonderful sobriety. When I came into AA back then,
I felt like I was in a new world with 12 steps and 12 traditions that I didn't
even
understand. I was like all of us when we have had enough and are mentally,
morally,
spiritually and emotionally bankrupt. I thought there was only one life and that
was a life
of drinking. I didn't know any other way to have fun or socialize unless I had a
buzz on.
Well I was totally wrong. I did know from the first meeting that I wanted the 12
promises
and I was willing to do what ever it took to get them. That meant working the 12
steps in
all I do from the first meeting to today, and I do do them, reading the big
book, getting a
sponsor, and going to meetings. Also, I thank God for his gifts he gives me
each day and
the sobriety he has given me. I have built a very serene life for me and my
family and have
turned a downward spiral of a life into a very successful life (family, new
friends, business,
etc) all because I don't drink. I have learned to accept life on life's terms
and found out I
can't change the things I can't. There is so much to see, feel, enjoy, and too
many things
to experience and share that I do not want to drink because I will miss
something. I
wanted to share this with everyone, especially new comers to show this program
really
works and the results are terrific.

As I sit here tonight and think back at what it was like, I am so very thankful
for AA and
all of you for being there for me in my very darkest hour and in my time of
need.

Thanks for letting share
Tom M. an alcoholic