I can see that (and have seen it in outpatient programs i've been in combined with copious #'s of AA meetings). In my own personal experience whether im abstaining, modding or binging it makes no difference. Ultimately it always came back down to my own decision. I also appreciate for a lot of people there very much is no decision which is why I can see people so vehemently oppose modding. However, an abstainer can fall off the band wagon just as fast an hard as a modder.
My personal take away from these forums (as a whole) is seeing the journeys people have taken to having a healthier lifestyle. The analysis of the alcoholic brain. The habits and patterns people fall into and corresponding methods of breaking them. The trials and tribulations. The successes and failures. And most of all the diversity of approaches to doing as such. I whole heartedly reject a one-size-fits-all approach. All you have to do is look at the number of failures people have. If there was one recipe for success then we wouldn't have a problem in the first place. Alas, to err is human.
Philosophically the closest thing that mirrors my own feelings is what's stated here, i think its a very powerful, positive and realistic world view on dealing with addiction (Harm Reduction for Alcohol--HAMS)
Harm reduction is a set of practical strategies intended to reduce the negative consequences of high risk behaviors such as overdrinking or drug use. Harm reduction is a nonjudgmental approach that attempts to meet people "where they are at" with their drinking or drug use. Instead of demanding perfect abstinence, this pragmatic approach is supportive of anyone who wishes to minimize the harm associated with a high risk behavior such as drinking or drug use. Harm reduction accepts that high risk behaviors such as recreational alcohol intoxication are part of our world and works to minimize their harmful effects rather than simply ignore or condemn them
FYI, thank you whoever referred me to the mywayout book. I'm still reading and digesting it
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