Hey all. It's been awhile but I'm about to start a short weekend with my heavy drinking in-laws. Will you all please send good vibes? I really appreciate it, and will check in periodically. Thanks! -Adam
__________________
When every situation which life can offer is turned to the profit of spiritual growth, no situation can really be a bad one.-Paul Brunton
The sway of alcohol over mankind is unquestionably due to its power to stimulate the mystical faculties of human nature, usually crushed to earth by the cold facts and dry criticisms of the sober hour. ---William James
Your Higher Power might be a good choice as well. Just sayin'.
__________________
The sway of alcohol over mankind is unquestionably due to its power to stimulate the mystical faculties of human nature, usually crushed to earth by the cold facts and dry criticisms of the sober hour. ---William James
Three hours in: So far, so good. I keep thinking back to a post from Tasha a couple of weeks ago bringing up the idea that we make excuses to drink because we are alcoholics. Being frustrated and surrounded by drinking gives me the anxiety that used to push me into getting totally inebriated. But I keep reminding myself that this anxiety is caused by the disease. The disease is working my fears and anxieties. I'm not going to drink, obviously, but oh man booze is a clever bastard! I'll check back again soon.
__________________
When every situation which life can offer is turned to the profit of spiritual growth, no situation can really be a bad one.-Paul Brunton
That's why I don't like being around drunks - it's not that I'm tempted to drink, but sometimes the depression and anxiety get so thick you can cut it with a knife. And the emotional pallor wears off on me. Hang in there brother.
__________________
The sway of alcohol over mankind is unquestionably due to its power to stimulate the mystical faculties of human nature, usually crushed to earth by the cold facts and dry criticisms of the sober hour. ---William James
Haha. Thank you all! I really appreciate it. I got through the day without much anxiety and was able to stay centered despite a dramatic family blow-out at a restaurant that in no way involved me. All day I kept focusing on HP and all the terrible things I am avoiding by staying sober. Admittedly, I stress ate some food through the day - but considering how I used to handle the tension and heavy in-law alcohol use (you know, joining in), I'm okay with that.
Anyway, I think the biggest confirmations I had from the day were that:
1. Drunk people think they are more interesting than they actually are. At least, I was that way. And my in-laws are that way. I feel like I should make amends to everyone who ever sat through my ridiculous stories that at the time seemed fascinating to me.
2. Drunk people are incredibly sensitive. Again, I was that way and my in-laws are that way. The above-mentioned argument began with a flippant comment that escalated into a full-on confrontation about all sorts of deep-rooted, years old resentments.
Watching people drink and interact while sober is interesting, because in some ways I feel like I am looking into the past at how I acted around people for a very long time, ever thankful that I am in a program that allows me to confront life with much more maturity and grace.
Anyway, after brunch tomorrow my wife and I have the day to ourselves. Thanks again for the good vibes.
-Adam
__________________
When every situation which life can offer is turned to the profit of spiritual growth, no situation can really be a bad one.-Paul Brunton
