12 years of sobriety

[Charlize]

Tonight i will be chairing my first homegroup meeting. I have a lovely young woman scheduled to be my speaker. It seems amazing when  I remember that 12 years ago i was hiding behind a pillar in the back of the room.  At the time i was bearded, in a dirty T shirt and was shaking.  I  hallucinated as i drove to the meeting.  I was amazed when i raised my hand and said:  "My name is Chuck and i'm an alcoholic".  Chuck didn't drink for 5 years with the help of the AA community.  He did the steps with a sponsor and over time found a path towards honesty and acceptance.  Charlize sat in front of that group as a speaker 7 years ago. No-one recognized her but her voice was certainly familiar.  Trans Pulse (Laura's Playground at the time) and the rooms of AA gave me the strength to be true to myself.

Thank You!

 

Hugs,

 

Charlize

[Willow]

@Charlize Congratulations!  I’m glad you found the strength to be you!

 

 

[killjoyaiden]

MAJOR  congratulations, Charlize! I understand how hard it is to overcome alcoholism, and sobriety certainly isn't something to go unnoticed, even if it's only a week sober, or a decade. Keep up the hard work! I think we both can agree: the sober life is the best one!

[VickySGV]

Happy RE birthday. 

[Cyndee]

Your story of strength helps others Charlize

 

Congrats

 

Cyndee -

[Jani]

Congratulations Charlize!  I am so happy for this day and that I know the beautiful person you are.  

 

Love, Jani

[Timber Wolf]

Congratulations Charlize!

4383 days sober (including leap years) is a marvelous accomplishment.

 

Lots of love,

Timber Wolf ??

[DeeDee]

??? Wow! well done Charlize that is an amazing accomplishment in all senses of the word! For the help and support you give everyone here, I am so glad you hid behind that pillar!  

[Susan R]

Congratulations @Charlize  That is truly something to be very proud and happy about. You've completely redefined yourself and your reality in such a positive way.  It's hard for me to even visualize the old you reading your description of yourself back then.

 

May you celebrate this for many more years to come,

Susan R?

[Charlize]

I made some earrings to celebrate 12 years. Last night I had a chance to wear them as I got my coin. In typical alcoholic fashion I can’t get the picture right side up.

 

hugs and smiles,

 

Charlize

[Briana]

Charlize, that is just totally awesome.  It is such a difficult thing to do and I'm very glad for you.  Love the ear rings too!  And perhaps the upside down pic just represents a different view of the world. 

[onaquest]

Mega congrats on the XII!

[Mediator]

Good job! Thank you so much for sharing! ❤️