“I used to hate the idea of stopping drinking because it seemed all the fun in life would disappear. But it was the misery that disappeared. Laughter, fun and joy came back into my life. I enjoyed the thrill of doing scary things stone-cold sober. I experienced the contentment that I belong in the world. I’m a valued person who brings value to others.”

“I am grateful to the older members, who will always be “older”, for lighting the way, and to the newer ones for reminding me about whence I came. Some teach me what to do, and others what not to. Some ideas given to me have been useful, and others have been tried and discarded in a process of changing perspective. There are always many who have what I want. Most of the time, I am grateful.”

“Best of all is the loving, happy relationship I have with my young son. We’re each other’s best friend. My life now is balanced and serene and it’s wonderful. I sincerely hope I never lose my gratitude or take anything for granted. Materially, I don’t have much, but when I had it all I didn’t appreciate it and I certainly didn’t know happiness. There is no life I want more than the one that I have and the journey just keeps getting better.

AA has given me everything I ever wanted and more than I ever dreamed of – thank you AA.”