I am new to this forum and I would like to introduce myself. I'm Steve and I'm 35 years old. Over the past 15 years, my drinking has increased from reasonably normal levels (3-6 beers a week) to 2+ bottles of wine a day. In that time, I've lost my marriage, a fiancee I loved dearly, 3 dream jobs, all my friends. I've alienated my family, endangered my health and lost the respect of my children.
I don't know why it has taken me this long to realize it, but Saturday I had somewhat of a "eureka" moment, when I suddenly realized that alcohol has been the cause of much of the unhappiness in my adult life. I know what you're thinking.... DUH, EINSTEIN.
I know now, but it wasn't clear to me. I was functioning perfectly well. Physically in good shape, didn't think there was anything wrong with drinking that much. All my problems were caused by something or somebody else.
What caused my moment of clarity? I was watching a TV show for the first time - "intervention" (after well over half a bottle of vodka), and the truth became painfully clear to me that I was already a long way down the path to self-destruction. I saw pieces of myself in all the alcoholics on the show, and for the first time, I saw the sadness and pain I have caused my own family in the eyes of the intervening loved ones.
So, here begins my journey. My last drink was Friday May 15. I hope it will be last for good.
I feel great. I have mental clarity for the first time in many years. I am starting to feel alive again.
Thank you in advance for your support. I know I will need it.
--Steve
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