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Jun 03, 2012, 02:39 PM
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Member Since: Oct 2010
Location: Michigan
Posts: 6,543
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Hi ~ When I got sober in AA, the first thing they "taught" me was I had to change PEOPLE, PLACES AND THINGS. That meant I couldn't hang out with the same people, go to the same places, or do the same things!
So I changed my friends. I couldn't hang with the same bunch, because they drank & drugged! I could NOT afford to be "friends" with them. And they weren't really friends anyway. They were just drinking buddies. Could I rely on them in a crisis?? HECK NO. They were always drunk! Could I ask them for a ride somewhere if I needed one? NO, cause they were always drunk! I couldn't rely on them for anything. They weren't friends -- in fact they were users -- they always borrowed money, and NEVER paid it back. 
I couldn't go to the same places, cause that was usually BARS. I had to change my route home from work, cause I always passed the liquor store where i'd buy my "stash" for home.
And I stopped going out. Where I lived, the only thing to do was go to a bar, or a lodge. So I just stayed home. I found things to do at home - I got back into hobbies, i.e. painting, drawing, and I played the organ too. So I kept plenty busy after I got home from work. Plus I attended every meeting that was available too.  I was NOT bored, by any means!
It doesn't MATTER what your family thinks -- you KNOW you have a problem with alcohol. Get back to meetings and work the steps! It's a matter of life and death, and I'm not exaggerating! YOu CAN do this. I wish you the very best! God bless you & take care. Hugs, Lee
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