I had an interesting experience today. After a great meeting and running some errands on a beautiful day off from work, I'm sitting in the park enjoying some sun. This park happens to be right on the main road, and I hear my name being called from a passing car. Of course I recognize the voice- my old bartender! Or one of them. It was always easy for me to quickly befriend bartenders because I work in the business and...well, I spent a LOT of time in bars. This guy worked at a place I would go to every night after work alone- he would make my drinks triple strength and we'd chat for hours before he'd drive me home. I was long past any attempts at hiding the fact that I had a problem. Anyway- he stops in traffic to say hi and ask why he hadn't seen me in so long. I reply (this is all shouting across the street with people honking at him- me sitting in a crowded park) "I've been sober for close to a year now!". He replies "that's great! Congratulations! Love the haircut!" (sorry.. I just had to include that last part haha). I then realize I just literally shouted "I'm SOBER" in front of like 50 strangers lol! It should have been a bit embarrassing, but actually it felt very natural and I was not the least bit embarrassed :)
Nope, you can come look at the wet tissue in my waste basket ... ... ... My heart was truly 'over-joyed' at your experience and how it gave you pause!!!
I love you, and there ain't a damn thing you can do about it!!!!!!!!!!
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'Those who leave everything in God's hand will eventually see God's hand in everything.'
Col - that's awesome, it is weird how that whole stigma thing pretty much fades away in most circumstances. Couldn't have imagined THAT a year ago eh????
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Thanks for everything. Peace and Love on your journey.
TOM!! Who told you that?? My ex?? He's a LIAR! AND I got it from him! Just kidding- for the record, in front of God and everyone- I Have Never Had an STD!!! BUT... I wish I had been quick-witted enough to say it anyway :) then sat back down and finished my coffee.
Yeah...I love this too. It's a beautiful transition to when you go from "having a drinking problem" to having a "sobriety strength/asset." It shows that your sobriety is settling in further and in a good way (not complacent but just a positive part of your identity).
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Keep coming back. It works if you work it. So work it. You're worth it!
I think there's an invisible principle of living...if we believe we're guided through every step of our lives, we are. Its a lovely sight, watching it work.