Worked for me today. Was at a business reception in which the hosts said, "come get a drink". Waiters hovering everywhere, asking you if want FREE drinks -- wine, beer, etc. Thought about drinking that stuff as much as I would drinking paint. Had an orange juice and left when I felt like leaving, now when I had to.
Before I'd started to work the AA program and developed relationship with my Higher Power, that was exactly the kind of scenario in which I'd be utterly pissed right now and would be rolling in on the last train.
You reminded me of my 1st company dinner. I was so not comfortable to go but I had to. My sponsor asked me to order 2 main courses first. I started eating my dinner and I got so full that I could even think of a drink. My colleagues were plastered by the time I had finished my dinner, so they did not bug me either. I left early because I was so disgusted with their behaviour and for the 1st time I saw myself sober in them. All my friends since then have been AA buddies. We really care care for each other.
Steve, Thank you. Good stuff. Sounds like you've been placed in a position of neutrality the BB talks about- step 10. It happens if we continue to work the program. Also, nice to see you left when YOU wanted too. Self care and boundaries. Nice gift from your HP and the program.
