We admitted we couldn't lick alcohol with our own remaining resources, and so we accepted the further fact that dependence upon a Higher Power (if only our A.A. group) could do this impossible job. The moment we were able to accept these facts fully, our release from the alcohol compulsion had begun.

A Talk Given By Bob D.

Bob B. from St. Paul, MN at Sacramento Spring Fling, Sacramento, CA - February 13th 1999

When people give up abusing alcohol it does not mean that their trials in life are over. They are still going to have to deal with the ups and downs of life. The only difference will be that they won’t be making things worse through substance abuse. One of the things that people in recovery are almost certain to face is fear. Those who are emotionally sober are no longer interested in hiding from fear. Their focus is on learning to manage it effectively.

Bob B. from St. Paul, MN at Sacramento Spring Fling, Sacramento, CA - February 13th 1999

Despite the fact that this chronic disease affects people of both genders, every race, different age groups, employment sectors, ethnic groups, religious affiliations and more, there’s still a stigma associated with addiction. Many addicts wonder whether it’s okay to share with employers their need for treatment or share that they have undergone a treatment program in the past.

Those individuals who escape an addiction can expect to experience plenty more success in their life going forward. This is not to say that riches will fall from the sky, but being sober means that people are now able to do the things they need to achieve their ambitions.

“When we meet real tragedy in life, we can react in two ways – either by losing hope and falling into self-destructive habits, or by using the challenge to find our inner strength.” – Dalai Lama

We explore the unique challenges for Women in recovery, whether you are an alcoholic or if you love one. What are the barriers, what are the difference, and probably we will discuss some similarities. Hopefully, there will be surprises.

Now that tri county is over and all the boxes are put away, now that the digital files have been organized, we now have time to reflect on what happened during the Tri County conference of AA. When I am in the moment, I’m not all that aware of what is going on around me.