What doesn’t kill me makes me stronger this is a truth for those of us who sit in the rooms and watch people die from the disease, or continue on in the misery of Alcoholism and Addiction. Over the past quarter century I have seen this over and over again, people come in and out, and some come and go out and die. I have had to sit and watch this progression and accept it happening. I have worked closely with some who were personal friends long before, I myself got sober, and some who became friends, I have had to see them die, its heart breaking. My Sorrow for them is painful, and deep each time it happens, but I don’t let it change my thoughts about continuing to reach out, for me I must be willing to experience this in the hope that some will find the gift and carry the message to others, that there is hope if they can just surrender and commit to go to any length to find it. I have heard some of my fellow members give up on working with others because they are frustrated with a drunk because they don’t want it. What I was challenged with by those who went before me that I needed to have a black suit ready, because I would be going to funerals in m future, and they told me the truth, and some of you know I do have black suits. These men and women also told me to say “but by the grace of God go I”, and I do. I know that I am truly sober and living because, I have been graced by the Power Greater than me, to still be alive to carry the caskets and a message, that it doesn’t have to be that way, if you don’t want, and that there is a solution, for an aging musician like me, and it can be that way for you. As I said what doesn’t kill me makes me stronger in the faith of the 12 steps, the 12 traditions, the 12 concepts of service, the 12 principles, and the rooms that have given me the strength to continue, with hope, faith, and the courage to stay.
Peace Out: M