In the first seven episodes of this podcast, you’ve heard from recovering alcoholics whose continuous lengths of sobriety range from 16-42 years. My guest on today’s show, Chris G. offers the perspective of one who found AA over 15 years ago, but after the first year and a half, decided to go back out. Relapse for some is a sad and tragic story. Many alcoholics are claimed by incarceration, institutionalization, or death before they have the chance to make it back. In Chris’ case, by the grace of God, he survived to finally return to AA and today has 4 and a half years of continuous sobriety.

I met Chris 15 years ago when he first came to AA, welcomed him into the fold, and was glad to see him every week. Despite the many time he slipped and came back, we were glad to see him and all of us encouraged him to do the work and reap the gifts of sobriety. Now, with nearly 5 continuous years in the Program, many of those gifts have shown up in Chris’ life, and are his to keep as long as he stays actively in the middle of the AA Program.

Chris’ story may be of particular interest to listeners in early sobriety, as well as newcomers and those back from relapse. It’s also essential listening for those who’ve been around a while who will appreciate the heartfelt gratitude for AA present in the experience, strength, and hope offered by my very special guest, Chris G.

Check out Howard’s Big Book Podcast, the complete unabridged audio version of the First and Second Editions of Alcoholics Anonymous. The Big Book Podcast is an engaging word-for-word reading of all 11 chapters and more than 50 original stories most people have never seen. If you’ve only read the Fourth Edition, these amazing stories will be brand new to you. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Or listen on https://bigbookpodcast.com

[Disclaimer: In accordance with A.A.’s traditions, my anonymous guests and I speak for ourselves only, not for Alcoholics Anonymous at large. We share only our personal experiences with A.A. recovery. We acknowledge that AA’s sole concern is the recovery and continued sobriety of those alcoholics who turn to the Fellowship for help. As members of AA, our primary purpose is to stay sober and to help other alcoholics achieve sobriety. – Howard L.]