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Craig D's Recovery Story
I Did Not Want to Give Up My Best Friend

From Craig D., About.com Guest

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I am 53 years old and drank daily for 35 of those years. Some days more than others, but every day brought with it a daily dose and a good hearty buzz. Some days much more than a buzz.

I was indeed a "functioning alcoholic." I got up and went to work every day, and generally stayed sober until the work day ended. Then it was party time.

I Asked for God's Help

I have known for many years that sooner or later this daily consumption of alcohol would catch up with me. I considered AA several times in the past, but never attended a meeting. I really did not want to give up my best friend. That is what the booze was for me, my best friend. Or so I thought.

For many years my nightly prayers often included asking for God's help in ridding myself of this so called best friend. The decades passed and the drinking continued unabated. Within the last five or six years I began attending a local church.

Throwing It All Away

I have been a life long Christian, but have not practiced my faith until recently. I am now a developing follower of Jesus Christ. I say "developing" because my journey as I walk with God is ongoing and a maturation process.

Several years ago I began hearing an inaudible voice from within. It was God. God said quite simply, "Craig, I have so many plans for you, so many gifts to give you. Yet you continue to drink. You are choosing to throw it all away." I continued to drink.

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