" We cannot understand: Faith, without doubt; Peace, without war; Happiness, without sorrow; Hope, without despair; Trust, without betrayal; Light, without darkness; Love, without hate; Pleasure, without pain; Good, without bad. To understand, we must first realize that without the clouds, We would never appreciate a sunny day." 2001 T.Sharkey Be proud of where you've come from and with the recognition of your issues with Alcoholism. I know some recovering Alcoholics that are now helping people throughout the world-- having experienced all the pain of an Alcoholic, who best to help others through it? Perhaps that is partly the reward God gives each of us when we have been presented with such an illness. We trust in Him and He heals us and then allows us to carry on to help others because we feel their pain and know EXACTLY how to help. You all are more incredible than you know, as much of our pain results from the world we live in.... We recognize how difficult it is to live here and turn to alcohol, sex, food or whatever other addiction it is we are faced with. Knowing this, we need to understand that this isn't necessarily a bad thing to have no hope in the world because that is EXACTLY where God wants us to be. Looking forward to eternal life and in turn, He gives us the life we dream of during our short time here. For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD , "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths. Proverbs 3:5-6