I want to share that I went to an AA meeting Saturday, August 23 (2008). It was my first one in over a year and a half. I picked up a two-year sobriety chip. Not sure why, I guess I deserved it after all. 

Wow! It was just like I remember it. True, honest, yet depressing. I went there optimistic, but my GOOD FEELINGS, and LACK OF ANY DAY-TO-DAY ALCOHOL STRUGGLE made me feel like I shouldn't be there. Besides the fact that almost everyone was smoking, and I practically had to detox on my way out (my lungs that is!).

While I'm very appreciative, and I it was eye-opening to hear the words again. I somehow couldn't really re-engage or feel a real association with the group. Let me AGAIN say, I respect AA, but there are reasons why it isn't for me. When I did speak, I obviously had to tone down my message of how the Lord changed my life, and I also had to be careful of sounding too "lofty" or "happy". (I'm happy almost everyday.) I did talk about being grateful. That's one area you can't miss on, be grateful you're here today.

I've said before that I loved the 12-Step readings, they are Christian-based. In my book "Simply Quit Drinking" I say that was my favorite part of meeting, learning, sharing, and growing.

I'm starting a group at church to help alcholics recover using a Christian-based 12-Step Recovery program. I'm very excited. Anyone in Tampa Bay, or further, is welcome to attend Sundays at 6:30 pm.