I remember when I was new to it, the feeling of triumph I'd get when I could drive past my regular spot without stopping to pick up booze on my way home. I remember fighting with every fiber of my being, not to sneak booze when I knew I could get away with it. I remember thinking it was something I'd always have gnawing in the back of my mind, and that this program I was working would only serve to make it more manageable. That maybe I'd make some sober friends and build a life where I could struggle through it with some measure of happiness. I worked the 12 steps of AA for the wrong reasons (trying to date someone). I'd been doing it with total surrender and honesty, since I knew I was a real alcoholic and I had nothing to lose, but I never thought it would work. I was only actually bothering with it to get people to leave me alone about it, and because this lady said she'd only let me take her out if I got through certain steps. Much to my surprise, it actually worked; even when things didn't work with her. Through building my connection to God, and sincerely trying to carry out His will instead of my own, I can honestly say I'm a recovered alcoholic. I no longer crave it. I can go anywhere with no concern. It's not a fight anymore. Now I live my life trying to be helpful to those around me, and to serve where I can. I keep putting the work in not because I need it to keep me sober (although it helps), but because I remember the hopeless despair and the madness of it. I remember how bad it was and I know that through God there's a way out. Today I jumped out of a plane (and landed safely), and I've committed to quitting cigarettes. I'm down 25lbs this year, and the future looks hopeful. I don't care if it's through God, or A.A., or by your own insane will; I pray that you to are successful getting off the sauce. Life is incomparably better without it. At least that's been my experience. Keep it up, people.