'Tis true. I had my last drink a month ago today. I can honestly say that I have no desire to pick up a drink, nor do I want to return to that absolute hell I was living day in and day out. It was a very, very dark and bleak place. Now, instead of living that sad, lonely purgatory, essentially waiting - and wanting - to die, my life is now about living, doing the best I can, and seeking happiness.
Interestingly enough, the easiest part has been not drinking. (Which is not to say that to not drink is the easiest thing for an alcoholic to do.) What’s been more difficult has been dealing with the ups and downs of my mood, and not being able to soak whatever emotion of the moment in booze to make it easier to handle.
I think I’ve been doing rather well.
My lifestyle has changed dramatically, as well. I’m taking care of myself again, eating well, treating myself when I feel like it. I go to sleep instead of losing consciousness. I get out of the house - be it to go to a meeting, or just to get some fresh air. I talk to people, and more importantly, I listen.
And, along the way, I seem to have picked up a new boyfriend - who’s also in recovery.
All of this to say I am truly blessed to have this second chance at sobriety, and to be surrounded by not only the great people in AA, but everyone here on the SDMB as well. Thank you, all.
My name is Peter, and I’m a grateful recovering alcoholic.
Peter, I’m so, so proud of you. I was just thinking of you yesterday and wondering how you were doing in sobriety - congratulations on this milestone. Many more to come!!
Way to go! I’m back to just my 3rd day today. After 5 years of going out. Strange I should just now read this. I just hung up the phone, it
was my wife making sure I would be home tonight, I promised, read your post – I’ll be home! Sober! I know it!
keep at it