It’s mysterious to me how I discovered the rooms of Alcoholics Anonymous.
Nobody in my immediate family is in the Fellowship. I was given a Big Book by an Aunty some years ago, she obviously saw the traits of active alcoholism raging in me. The book remained on the window sill gathering dust, full of wisdom and untapped potential.
I did many home detox’s, rattling off drink once the decision had been made that something had to give before my body did.
My family were so tolerant of my alcoholism it enabled me to pursue it further and further. They love me, they begged me not to drink, they told me I had a problem, they hoped it would be the last time I drank. It never was. I felt guilty about this until I became aware I was unwell and the best way to make amends would be to embrace recovery.
A visit to the Doctor yielded some poor advice. I was 3 months off a drink and doing well apparently. I was informed if I attended AA, I could smell alcohol on somebody’s breath and this could trigger a relapse. In retrospect I had been misdirected away from the sanctuary I’d ultimately find.
Lots of people in Fellowship experience being admitted to treatment centres. They are allowed to attend AA meetings during treatment. They’re directed to the rooms of AA after being discharged. My experience wasn’t like this at all.
I’m grateful to have found the rooms of Alcoholics Anonymous. Maybe it was good fortune, desperation or guidance from a Higher Power that led me to AA. I’m not entirely sure. I wonder how many people are out there coping the best way they can with active alcoholism just like I was?
If you have concerns about your drinking, it’s worth considering attending an AA meeting. I got sober by being sponsored through the 12 Step Program and attending regular meetings. I’m a grateful alcoholic in recovery.
wretchedtorecovery.com 