I stopped drinking on Mother's Day 1983. Got involved in service. Went on speaking committments. What no one knew was that I was doing the cocaine - marajua (sp) maintainence program. Started late after a humbling ordeal. Took what ever was available. Hand me a pill, powder or drink and I took it. My "foster" father would climb in bed with me when I was 14. He would touch my breasts. His wife was an alcoholic. He beat me out of frustration. I drank and used for 16 years. Was arrested 8 times. Two for drunk driving and 6 for drugs. One thing though, when I stopped drinking I didn't get arrested any more. My clean date is March 7, 1988. Just celebrated 26 years. Did it by going to meetings, getting humble and accepting I had a sickness. Got a sponsor, worked the steps and go to meetings. Was it easy - no way. Have had many challenges in recovery. Loved ones passed, was homeless, was evicted and had a brain aneurysm. Just to name a few. No matter what I did not pick up anything. My life today is so much better than before. I remember what I have done the night before. I am responsible. I help people. People are willing to help me. So no matter how tough we think we may have it, drinking and drugging would only make it worse. Gratitude is key. Learning to love myself was key also. Was told that the people in the rooms would love me until I learned to love myself. It worked for me. Have a blessed day!!!