[TracyR]

I'd like to know if anyone has any thoughts about life after the steps... or should I say WITH the 'Steps'?

[rnjim]

Good evening, there is no life without the steps. At some point you will be living the steps without thought. Early in recovery we work the steps as a guide, when you get to a place in your recovery that it is instinct to do the right thing and you're not having to stop and think of what is right, then you are living the steps. I have been close and lost my direction. The result was "relapse" total and devastating. There was a point that I felt clean and (above) the disease. That was all it took. Complacency, as deadly to an alcoholic as a drink. I went from chairing meetings and speaking as a guest to hiding from those same people who I had been sharing with.
At some point we (all people in recovery), must realize that we will always be addicts, and alcoholics. There is no shame in having a disease. As nurses we treat people every day that suffer from some type of disease. Diabetics need insulin, people with COPD need inhalers, hhn txs. And we that suffer from addiction and alcoholism need a recovery program. Instead of a pill, I need the big book and meetings and the companionship of others in the program.
I am new at this "posting thing" and hope I don't overdue it. But I am a firm believer in helping myself, by helping others. So, I hope my answer gives some insight as to your question. Anyway, it's how I see it. jim

[TracyR]

Hi Jim,

Thanks for posting, and come back often. I'm with you 100%. The program has kept me sane and sober for nearly 4 years now, and I couldn't be happier than I am right now with my recovery. I too sometimes work the steps without thought.

Please bring other alcoholic nurses to the forum, if they are comfortable talking with us, and we'll get through this together.

[CCHADWI]

I think you all are very courageous individuals, and if there is ever anything I can do to help, I am always available. Stay strong. I hope more will come join this forum, and use it to gain even more strength. My hats are off to you.

Charles