STEP Four Musings in COVID
Every time I read through Step Four in the 12 &12 at a meeting, I kinda wind up thinking: “Oh, I could have done the last inventory better.” Deciphering the sidebar notes I scribble on the side — the counsel
COVID-19 and Christmas 2020
COVID-19 and Christmas 2020 Of all the posts I have written about sanity, sobriety during Christmas, I never imagined a COVID restrained celebration, or the effect it would have. Seems like the pandemic has canceled many events; but I choose
COVID-19 Canceled my Anniversary, Not My Celebration
COVID-19 may have canceled my anniversary; it can’t postpone my celebration! Of all the scenarios that might cancel my anniversary, I never imagined the one today – cut off from my home group because of a pandemic. Yet, here we
Not Feeling the Holiday Spirit Yet?
Reasons may abound for our not feeling the Holiday spirit yet. I am often the author of the HUMBUG that wafts through my brain by letting a few expectations morph into . . . demands. And I know better! (Falling
Gifts
One of the gifts that keeps on giving in this pandemic is The Grapevine. Its authors in the current and past issues make me feel like I am at a friendly speakers meeting. I can take what I need, and
Thanksgiving 2021
Thanksgiving 2021 T-Day is in the history books . . . ours was a quiet day—but good Break out the crayons and color me grateful and sober. Color me mindful, too of many alcoholics who are struggling in the isolation
The Timeliness of Tradition Ten
The Timeliness of Tradition Ten In the craziness of the fall out from COVID and politics, the timeliness of Tradition Ten smacked me upside the head! Understanding the traditions upon which AA rests may not seem to be the best
First In-Person Meeting
The Last In-Person Meeting I attended my first in-person meeting since February 21, 2020. Someone there made a serendipitous observation, given all that soon happened. I can’t think my way through trouble; I have to live through trouble and learn to
A Dubious Equality
It’s a dubious equality that women now drink as much as men. One, because women aren’t as often drinking for pleasure. Many drink just to cope. Two, because alcohol-related illnesses catch up with women more quickly than men. For nearly