Sobriety at Christmas
I haven’t written to Roundabout since the 1980s and that article was about anonymity. When it was printed it said ‘Booze beat you for six’ and the picture was of a man with a suit, collar and tie but no head – that was a bit of a laugh. Getting to the here and now, I’ve got to think where to start.
I came into AA in February 1983. I’ve not drunk any Christmas since then, but in the first few years I went on a few heavy benders in between the Christmases so to be totally honest the first three years don’t count. I had my last drink four days after the New Year of 1986. I’ve never needed to pick up a drink since, thanks to the Programme of AA and the God of my understanding.
My mother died the day before Christmas Eve 2002; I never needed to pick up a drink that day or any day since. The Christmases have varied so it would be impossible to include them all in here. I did the same as I’ve done every day: turned my will and my life over to God as I understand him – I pray for his will in every situation. I’ve heard it said about “posting a guard”, meaning to watch for pitfalls or danger marks. I never went anywhere near a pub probably in the first
three-quarters of my sobriety.
I may have the odd dinner once in a blue moon if I go out with my friends. AA literature has been very handy on a Christmas, especially Roundabout and Share. They are a Godsend – I have found many a time when I picked up a magazine there I would always find something to help me, relating to whatever problem or thought I may have at the time. Over the years AA magazines have helped when I can’t get to meetings. It is difficult when one lives out in the country and it’s worse because I’m unable to climb steps or stairs. Sobriety’s got to always come top priority with me no matter where I am or what happens. If any situation was causing me a problem then I would walk away.
Jim D
Wales
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