Part 2
By working the steps to the best of my ability and being honest doing them I have turned moments into days. Days into weeks. Weeks into months. Months into years.
I now have a blast in sobriety. I go to concerts, ballgames, casinos and comedy clubs. Though people around me drink and use I remember that I am the one that abused my right to use. Not them. The best thing that I get is the peace and serenity that the Promises talk about. Sometimes 2 to 3 minutes. Sometimes 2 to 3 hours. And they are getting closer each day.
Carrying the Message
One of the highlights of my sobriety came at a casino in Reno. The dealer at the 21 table knew I was in recovery and started to ask me things about her dad and son whom she thought might be alcoholic. I was sharing my experience, strength and hope and the other people at the table started joining in on this conversation. About 5 to 6 other people lined up behind us and joined in. I had an impromptu AA meeting in the middle of a casino playing Blackjack. It doesn’t get any better than that!
I have gone back to school and am currently on my last semester for an online degree in Business Management. The Program gave me the discipline to do this accomplishment. I also no longer take meds for my depression and anxiety.
I can go on and on about all the good things that have happened in my life since my last drink, but you might think it a bore or b.s. I am willing to talk AA to anyone, anywhere at any time. I haven’t even started on how I found that Higher Power the program talks about, so I will save that for another time.
Chris Swanberg is a beloved staff member of Sober Living by the Sea who leads by example. He gives the men and women who are in treatment at guidance about living a rewarding life in recovery as a result of practicing the steps of recovery that they are taught in our numerous
rehab facilities.
