March 13, 2017 - Readings in Recovery: Step by Step

Step by Step
Monday, March 13, 2017
 

Today, I won't waste any thought on the myth that I might return to responsible drinking some day. An "addiction vaccine" may that some researchers say may be pending may treat and even stop addiction from developing. But any vaccine treats only physical dependency, and alcoholism is a three-pronged condition that also includes emotional and spiritual ailments. A vaccine, then, will do nothing for the psychology of addictive behaviors like drinking, gambling, over-eating and sexual obsession. Any "cure" that lets me slide by with drinking without the shakes, hangovers and dry heaves is worth nothing if the morning after still greets me with regret, remorse, shame or an appearance before a judge because of a DUI. Alcoholism is a three-edge sword of physical, emotional and mental dependency and, until there's a vaccine to repair a damaged emotional and spiritual soul, I am never "cured." Today, because an emotional and spiritual cure can't be condensed in a syringe, I'll stick with AA. And our common journey continues. Step by step. - Chris M., 2017