Who I am is not important. You can call me Bernie if that makes you feel better. I was a drunk and a drug addict for about 30 years. 26 years ago, I entered an abstinence-based program also known as a 12-step program and I have not had to drink or use drugs since that time. This blog will be about the journey I took from who I was back then to who I am today. I feel I should mention that although I sobered up in the 12 step program of Alcoholics Anonymous and much of what I will post is based on the teachings of that program, this blog is not endorsed by or affiliated with Alcoholics Anonymous. It is simply my story.
I will qualify by saying that I started drinking at age 12 and I stopped drinking at age 41. During my years of active alcoholism, I also used a variety of other substances (solvents, LSD, cocaine, prescription pills, cannabis, mushrooms, etc.) but I am not a member of Narcotics Anonymous. I chose to use the one program I was in to help me deal with the multitude of substances I was addicted to. You can make whatever choice works for you.
Later, after I had recovered from my drinking and drugging problem I went to work in a transition home for male alcoholics and addicts. I worked there on and off for a period of approximately 20 years. Currently, I am co-founder of a non-profit organization that acts as a community outreach for persons in recovery from addictions, abuse, and homelessness. I am also a writer and a blogger.
I will give my interpretation of how I took each of the 12 steps. I will talk mainly about alcoholism but you may substitute the word drug if that makes you feel more comfortable. It won't bother me in the least.
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