Sam's Holiday Tip
Hello! I'm Sam (female), and alcoholic from Jacksonville. My sobriety date is Sept. 21, 1981, and I have a few holidays behind me to share about how I got through them without drinking.
I Avoided Parties With Alcohol
Firstly, I prayed to God for His protection and care, and to help me not pick up the first drink. I also went to alot of meetings! I volunteered with halfway houses, and food kitchens to stay busy, and I avoided parties where alcohol was served. I still do that, although the obsession to drink has been removed.I don't associate with the gradual decline of intelligent conversation that is obvious with those who drink. Ever notice how they repeat everything and talk louder, like I neither heard them the first time, or like they were so important that their loud talking would make sure that everyone else heard all the crap they had to say!?"
Good Sober Entertainment
I also take a fellow alcoholic with me to events where alcohol are served. Together we are stronger than we are alone.I plan parties at my house today, and provide for good sober entertainment. It usually ends up being a meeting. I depend on the fellowship and phone calls during the holiday especially for those who call needing help to avoid the first drink. I do 12-step calls during the holiday to help others, but more honestly (and selfishly) to keep the memory of what the first drink will do to me.
Volunteer My Services
I also call the bars in town where I used to hang out and volunteer my services as a "ride home," keeping inebriated drivers off the roads, and talk AA all the way! I will usually get a call back by some of the riders, and have even seen a few of them at meetings!I am always looking for ways to avoid the first drink, for me and for sponsees, and will come back to see what else is shared. Thank you, Buddy, for asking me to post my experience, strength and hope. Happy Thanksgiving everyone, may God bless y'all with a wonderful sober holiday.
-- Sam
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