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 leave the rest —but the wisdom and humor are at my fingertips.
Like a friend who shows up at just the moment, the little magazine shows me the steps work if you work them, and that power who is greater than I am is on the job!
Heading into a new year that may not be as wide-open as we would wish, the cover of the new Grapevine reminds me there are places I can go . . .
How?
Well, in Step by Step, an AA said don’t ask why— ask H.O.W.
Be: Honest, Open-minded, and Willing.
This month’s Grapevine reminded me being sober is a choice — a daily one — even in a pandemic.
I can’t imagine changing my daily life back then like so many did in COVID; I needed those meetings!
One thing back then, I came to understand there was some thing bringing to mind questions about the effect alcohol was having on me. Not that I worried about how my drinking might be affecting others — but what booze was doing to me. (Self-absorption is the give away, right?)
That thing turned out to be the best gift — especially bringing two crazy, wonderful people in recovery into my life to show me living without alcohol was not a prison sentence. They had what I wanted — peace, confidence, humor —joy.
I still want that.

Camaraderie and support are like chords that combined with my willingness and have led me to better places that drinking always promised we were going.
I have come to believe that alcohol will not give me that no matter how many excuses I might make for it. Also, I am grateful for people who can explain better than I why I can’t just have a drink every now and then.
Here’s an answer to a question I used to ask myself: Why Don’t You Just Drink Less?
Thanks for reading — How goes it with you, dear reader?
Love in Christ,
Sober and Grateful
