The Anonymous Alcoholic - A Superhero
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Recovery From Alcoholism Is A Superheroic Effort!
This lens is dedicated to those who mustered the willpower to turn over what little ego-based will and power they had left, to a higher guidance (higher power). Thus they could bear witness to millions who came after them (myself included) - of a working solution to a seemingly hopeless problem.
Recovering alcoholics are my superheroes!
Bavarian Squid Angel design courtesy of lensmaster Steve Thompson.
When Almost Everything Is Lost...
Quick! A Little Bit Of My Alcoholic Background Story...
Let's call it what it is: a drunkalog.
At home, there was always alcohol available. We lived good - and we celebrated a lot. Beer is the "iced tea" of Bavaria. And schnapps is like medicine for a stomach upset from huge portions of pig knuckles. Most folks can drink some times, and they can leave it alone at other times. Not me. I drink until I pass out. And then I start over, right away. I'm an alcoholic.My drinking started to get out of control when I was in my early twenties. My success as musician and record company executive provided me with money and plenty of occasions for socially acceptable excesses.
I drank heavily for about 20 years, until I "hit my bottom" in 1987 and walked through the doors of AA. I "fell off the wagon" in 1993, and I finally sobered up for good in 1997.
The picture above was taken last year, when I was a few months into my second decade of sobriety. However, it shall symbolize the countless situations when this alcoholic could be found dancing on tables, wearing something funny - and not much else.
Anonymous Survey - Part 1
It's good to be honest with ourselves - alcoholic or not...
How many years have you been drinking "too much"? Hopefully, you are sober by now. If not, look further down in this lens for some useful hints...
Official Resources - Free To All Sobriety Seekers!
You don't have to pay thousands of dollars for recovery - AA is free!
- Alcoholics Anonymous
- Official web site of AA
- Big Book online
- Read the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous online, in English, Spanish, or French
- Al-Anon/Alateen
- Find meetings in the US, Canada, and Puerto Rico
- Online AA Recovery Resources
- A huge resource site for all things "recovery".
Bill W., One Of The Co-Founders Of AA
Listen to the voice of a great man with even greater humility
The Meeting
My Superhero - My AA Sponsor Buddy T.
Did he save my behind? You bet!
Shortly after my return to AA, in January of 1997, I asked Buddy T. to be my sponsor. He agreed and we embarked on a 7-year friendship that ended when Buddy left for the "big meeting in the skies". My superhero died in 2004.A sponsor in AA is someone who enjoys a solid sobriety, works the 12-step program successfully in his own life, and then shares this experience with a newcomer.
Buddy T. is my superhero because he pointed out things to me that I could not see. One set of questions, in particular, stayed with me to this very day. Whenever I complained to Buddy about my financial worries (at least once or twice a week!), he asked me:
"Do you have food in your fridge?" (Yes)
"Did you pay your rent for this month?" (Yes)
"Do you have gas in your car so you can drive to work?" (Yes)
"Are all your bills paid for today?" (Yes)
"Then what are you worried about? Tomorrow is a whole new day and anything can happen between now and then."
From the moment I started working with Buddy, to this day, 11 1/2 years later, something always happened to rescue me from any financial difficulties. Usually, extra business from unexpected sources would materialize at the right time.
But sometimes it was almost eerie - like when my German music royalty company made a mistake and credited my account with $4,000 for a song I had not written. They subsequently let me "pay it off" by withholding my earnings for the next few years, which constituted an "interest-free loan" for the right amount, at exactly the right time.
Another time I had a car collision with minor body damage. With a high deductible, I couldn't afford the repair costs and delayed filing the claim. 18 months later my car was stolen and recovered with further damage. Naturally, I was extremely upset over my "bad luck". Buddy reminded me to watch out for "something good" coming from this situation. One month later, the insurance company declared it as "totaled" and offered to pay me the value dating back to the earlier collision incident. I received the insurance check over $4,200, and I sold the car "as is" for $1,000. What a deal, considering that I had bought it 5 years earlier for $6,900!
One might call these stories "coincidences". I don't think so. Experiences like these are being shared in AA meetings on a daily basis. They are the results of a "Higher Power" working in our lives. Before I met Buddy, my circumstances were almost of an opposite pattern - everything that could go wrong, went wrong. I contribute my better life only to Buddy's guidance towards a more spiritually-oriented life style.
That's why Paul "Buddy" T. is my superhero.
Rest In Peace, Old Friend! - Buddy T., 1952 - 2004
The Most Powerful Insight - Not just For Alcoholics!
Father Joe Martin is a superhero for any recovering addicts...
"Am I My Brothers Keeper" by Father Joseph C. Martin
In this film, Father Martin explores the founding of Alcoholics Anonymous and points to the importance of helping others. Being of maximum service to others is an integral aim of the Twelve Steps. Father Martin reminds viewers that some of the most important twelve step work recovering individuals do is at home. This film is very insightful and is appropriate for the individual in treatment or the person in recovery that wants to grow in usefulness to others. Father Martin is one of the worlds most knowledgeable and effective educators on the disease of alcoholism and drug addiction.
Father Joe's Great Sense Of Humor
He tells his famous "painter" joke...
"The Painter Joke", by Father Joseph C. Martin
Enjoy Father Martin's unique sense of humor! Recently, after filming a serious piece on the Mission Statement for Kelly Productions, Inc., Father broke into this joke. You never know when he will share one of his funny stories. Do you have a funny Father Martin joke or story? Share it with the world, here on You Tube.
Anonymous Survey - Part 2
Count your blessings, brother and sister!
Father Joe Martin Talks About Gratitude
A happy life through serenity - how do we get there?
"Gratitude" by Father Joseph C. Martin
The 12th Step, "having had a spiritual awakening as a result of these steps, we try to carry this message to the alcoholic and to practice these principles in all our affairs". Real gratitude is the 12th step in action. Action is the magic word. Gratitude is the hinge on which a sober life swings. It is the golden tray on which we offer to others what God has given us.
The Essence Of Recovery - More From Father Joe...
Why steps 4 and 5 are so important...
"Steps 4 & 5 of AA" by Father Joseph C. Martin
Is Recovery Simply A Matter Of My Own Willpower?
Do we really need to involve others?
Some might say, anyone can stop drinking or drugging if they really want to stop. Others insist that recovery is impossible without certain spiritual principles in place. For instance, we can stay sober only if we commit to helping others. What do you think?
Do we need to help others if we want to stay sober?
Fetching blurbs now... please stand byIt's all my own thing. Don't need nobody else.
Surly-Mac says:
It's mostly an individual thing - however, AA (other) meetings may be invaluable for some. I used to take my brother to AA... while I was half in-the-bag myself! Later, I tried AA meetings for my own drinking but (perhaps because of my "surly" nature) I could never get over a certain disbelief at the individuals I would encounter. BUT I WAS NEVER ALONE since my wife was my every-day meeting! I finally broke through using a simple meditation techniques from Roy Masters @ The Foundation for Human Understanding: sort of private meetings with my Soul!
Posted January 26, 2009
Boozin' Susan says:
I did it by myself for myself, after 30 yrs. of heavy drinking nearly ruined my liver, and started focusing my energy on my passion for animals. When I began volunteering at the Richardson Humane Society I found such a rewarding experience and the most caring people I have ever met! I don't have a lot to give or resources to help but I have never known such joy at being a part of the solution! Animals are defenseless and can't speak for themselves and my passion is being their voice! I have been "sober" for 5 years, drinking an occasional drink socially without getting drunk or binging! I no longer drink to escape- I have a purpose and passion that keeps me sober.
Posted January 13, 2009
AAmember says:
Depends on the person really. I went to many AA meetings in the beginning and participated in discussion, thus (hopefully) helping others. However, I haven't been to a meeting in quite awhile, don't know any other alcoholics/addicts yet I am coming up on my seventh year "birthday".
Posted October 25, 2008
aprilt33 says:
While I agree that help from others can make the road ahead much less frightening, I also believe that it is up to the individual to ultimately make the decision to change their lives or keep on the same destructive path.
Posted July 28, 2008
XavierTCross says:
I have been to narcotics annonymous meetings which are based on AA and the way I interpet it all believe in a "higher power" or "god as I belief in him" is more important. Having a sponsor and sponsoring others is a great help though.
Posted July 15, 2008
Squidoophile says:
I think If you walked with the people, they won't make you sober, on the contrary, they will fight instead of you to be like them and - not sober- ...so they can feel good because everybody around them is deeply in trouble like they are....
Posted July 12, 2008
Dreamscape says:
You don't need someone else but most people would find other people a great help because of the dependent nature of the human being.
Posted July 11, 2008
Absolutely! Service to others is the key to a happy and sober life.
sittonbull says:
Are you kidding...U got to walk that lonesome valley for sure...but "no man (or woman) is an Island!" Mentors, Angels, Loved Ones, etc. call them what you choose are in my mind... indispensable to succeed against any great challenge! Anonymous-alcoholic is an exemplary story and is now a featured lens in my new Inspiration and Determination lens! :-)
Posted March 25, 2009
successtoday says:
The all my own thing attiude is a huge problem to me and what frequently keeps many alcoholics and addicts from ever seeking recovery in the first place and if they do make into any kind of recovery program, I believe that sort of thinking only serves to keep us right where we are. I can say that from experience. If nothing changes, nothing changes. It was time to let go of "it's my way or the highway" and get together with others who not only knew how to stay clean and sober one day at a time but were actually doing it. Anybody can talk the talk but do they live it? The chapter in the Big Book "Into Action" talks about this subject. Not only does service to others help them, it helps me to stay clean, even if that other person does not.I tried it both ways more than once. Until I started service work, my results were not very good.
Posted February 22, 2009
BusyQueen says:
Yes, we do need to help others, they need our support more than ever when trying to stay sober.
Posted February 13, 2009
loveslife says:
Absolutely!! My daughter just got her 9 month coin and I am so proud of her! AA has been a blessing for her! What an incredible community. You've inspired me to do a lens in her honor! Buddy T has a very kind face.
Posted January 10, 2009
C.King, M.Ed -Sober Sources Network says:
I've seen people use a program, do it on their own and would never say it to be impossible without spiritual principles but my own personal recovery option. I think your chances are better then average however, if you choose to help others in maintaining your own sobriety but certainly doesn't mean you'll "slip" should you decide not to. A gift was given to me, I simply have to pay it forward. My service to others via the Sober Sources Network definitely is key to my happy life however it may not be true for others. So I'm choose the second option as the best.
Posted January 01, 2009
TinkerM says:
Its the pay now or pay later plan. Of course we do. I was so into myself did nothing for anyone else...
Posted December 02, 2008
Spook says:
I had no idea about this aspect of your life. You are a very brave man and I'm going to say that, no man is an island.
Posted November 28, 2008
dannystaple says:
I am no expert here, being the type who only drinks once in a while, and can't hold much at that, but my understanding is that this becomes a biochemical dependency as much as a psychosemantic one. Willpower is needed, but without a network of people to support someone, it will be very difficult to get through it. A spiritual element is not necessary, but a strong support network of people is. The only way to be part of a community is to contribute to it.
Furthermore, helping someone else overcome a serious issue may be enough of an eye opener to help you get over some of yours.
Posted October 11, 2008
totosmom says:
I know that if I'm focused on helping others; I'm not living in my own head which is a very dangerous place to be; not just for me but for everyone in my live.
Yesterday I celebrated 22 years of sobriety - A drunk like me!!!!
Posted September 14, 2008
grandma_deal says:
If I could have done this alone, I would've gotten sober years earlier. People were there when I needed help. Now it's my turn to be there for the new person.
Posted August 07, 2008
richard_wheeler says:
Some alcholics do need help. But it all depends on the individual and his or her willpower to quit. My father drank for years and it killed him. Like I said it all depends on how much the individual wants to quit. And quitting will not be an over-night thing.
Posted August 06, 2008
Angeladtao says:
Absolutely! I think that the purpose of life is to learn to be giving of yourself and to learn that serving others is the way to happiness. If my neighbor is lifted up, then I am lifted up, too. I carry this message into my daily life and politics.
Posted July 30, 2008
njppa says:
I think it's got to be something within yourself. I quit smoking 6 years back and that was something only I could do. I knew the risks and continued. Then one day I found out I was pregnant and swept them into the trashcan deciding never again and that was that. I am thankful to have kicked the habit.
Posted July 28, 2008
quirkymoo says:
With alcoholics, alcohol becomes the focus of their lives. Replacing that focus is the aim of the game, and replacing it with helping people is not only noble, it's successful.
Posted July 26, 2008
jacquelinestone says:
Yes!
You have to give it away to keep it. It is the act of giving of ourselves that heals us.
Posted July 24, 2008
Sandra says:
You got to give it away to keep it.
Posted July 23, 2008
jen872 says:
Thank you so much for your insight and advice- (some of us need it more than others)
Posted July 15, 2008
Google Sobriety! Cheers!
Let's tap in to the "sobersphere"...
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AA Materials On Amazon
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Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions
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As Bill Sees It: The A. A. Way of Life ...Selected Writings of the A. A.'s Co-Founder
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For The Recovery Aficionado...
Great collector's items and regular good deals on eBay!
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Why Don't You Leave A Little Toast...
I haven't heard one in a long time!
Thank you for visiting. Please throw some stars into the basket - "we are self-supporting through our own contributions" (from the AA preamble).
chefkeem wrote...
in reply to Shelly Thank you, Shelly and everyone else for commenting here with your kind words. We're not alone in anything we try to attempt and together we're so much stronger. Hugs to all of you and thank you for visiting. :-)
Posted June 17, 2009
Shelly wrote
What a wonderful offering you have here, I admit to a tear and a smile. I chose another road as a child, perhaps because I saw the ravages wrought by alcohol as I was growing up. I wa sitting on a rock one day as a child a said, ..and Father, I'm not going to drinck or use drugs because I don't want to change my reality. I guess I really did take the easy road. Not only do you deserve stars for this, but the sun and the moon as well--you have shed much light, allowed for humor and left a hand reaching out to encourage others. I'd say that's a good days work!
Posted June 17, 2009
chefkeem wrote...
in reply to ed batis Congratulations, Ed! Happy, joyous and free - that's our goal. How we achieve this is between us and our whatchamacallit.
Posted June 05, 2009
ed batis wrote
more than one way to skin a cat. twenty years of quality sobriety with Secular Organizations for Sobriety, an international sobriety group.
Posted June 05, 2009
SimeyC wrote...
Thank you for this candid Lens - I'm glad you found Paul 'Buddy' T and sad he left you so early...but you benefited hugely from his help, and I'm sure he's smiling down on you wherever he is - he would be very proud of the message you are giving others...there is hope!!!
Posted May 15, 2009
Beautiful-Bridal wrote...
I really enjoyed reading about Buddy T. and how he helped you. A very inspiring lens!
Posted May 14, 2009
KarateKatGraphics wrote...
Beautiful lens--could not agree more about recovering alcoholics being superheroes. Thanks for opening your heart here and inspiring others.
Posted May 05, 2009
tandemonimom wrote...
This lens brought tears to my eyes. This is a beautiful tribute to your buddy and to all recovering alcoholics. Thank you for your transparency here - I am sure that it will bless many people.
Posted March 26, 2009
GypsyOwl wrote...
Congratulations! This Lens won 1st Place in category in the International Friendship Month Lens Contest! www.squidoo.com/Lens-Contest Be sure to visit the contest lens and retrieve your badge. Prizes have also been posted and you will be contacted about retrieval of your prize. Brightest Blessings! Thank you for entering!
Posted March 24, 2009
A little more about me - here on Squidoo
Thanks for your interest!
Lensmaster chefkeem, aka Achim Thiemermann, has been a member since January 29 2008, has rated 2,525 lenses, favorited 1,931, and has created 120 lenses from scratch. Achim Thiemermann donates their royalties to Squidoo Charity Fund and Operation Helmet. This member's top-ranked page is "Best Tres Leches Coconut Macaroons". See all my lenses
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