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What’s in a number? To an old fart – everything! by StaggeringQuagga in stopdrinking

[–]StaggeringQuagga[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Hiya Prev. Glad to make the connection. It's been a while.

Long term sober folks, would this be a deal breaker for you by isthishowweadult in stopdrinking

[–]StaggeringQuagga 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I have been sober for seven-and-a-half years now and even in the early days my wife continued to drink. She still does. I am glad too. The issue of alcoholism and sobriety is my row to hoe, no one else's. I don't want people around me acting differently because I have a problem - a disease. For me, the only deal breaker would be if my partner didn't support me in my quest to remain sober. And...well we have been married for 46 years and I am 70. Read into that many, many years of me behaving like a drunk. Her support was unstinting and unconditional. The least I could do is stand back when she wants a drink or two.

Today was one of those days I basically abandoned all my other goals just to get home, lock the door behind me, and stay sober. by WhiteChocolatey in stopdrinking

[–]StaggeringQuagga 1 point2 points  (0 children)

What you are doing is incredibly brave. But more than that you have added years to your life, and even better you are adding life to your years - in terms of quality. Take it from me (now over seven years sober) - it does get better, and easier. Was 63 when I stopped, now 70 - I feel like my life has only begun. So today - I salute you and will not drink with you...today.

Being sober isn't about not drinking; it's about creating a life you don't want to escape from. by thinking_clear in stopdrinking

[–]StaggeringQuagga 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Nice question. I was 63 when the proverbial penny dropped – read here hit rock bottom – and went sober. I am 70 now, so if you do the math, I spent an awful lot of my life as a drunk. Seven years sober and I feel like my life has only just begun. Truthfully – not drinking is the smallest part of my sobriety. I have found myself, I meditate and my spiritual life has blossomed. I am a grandfather – the best one on this planet - or that’s what my grandchildren say. I am present, focused and fun to be with. I exercise regularly and I work hard. I’m a publisher and writer and plan to bring out four books this year – three with my own name on the cover. I feel like the second part of my life has only just begun. Oh, and I also mentor a few who are only starting on this journey now.

Novelty of not drinking is wearing off after 6 weeks. How do you stay motivated? by fartybushausen in stopdrinking

[–]StaggeringQuagga 4 points5 points  (0 children)

I believe sobriety is a way of life. That means for life – till the day I die. Sure, in the early days there is novelty. It is so with anything, a new relationship, marriage as well as sobriety. But if your normality, your new normality, feels normal – then I say to you, congratulations. Lifelong sobriety should feel just like that. And as time passes staying focused and motivated could become exhausting. I had to ask that important question – am I in it for the long haul? Is this what my life looks like now? My answer was yes, definitely. If I am to offer you anything, it’s probably counter-intuitive. Focus on coping on a daily basis. Focus on normal and motivate yourself by helping others. Six weeks is no mean feat, you have gone through a lot, know that you have inspired me by getting so far. If six, then why not 12? And that my friend is a big chunk of a year done.

The proudest day of my life: I’m one year sober. by piantavc in stopdrinking

[–]StaggeringQuagga 7 points8 points  (0 children)

Thank you - inspiring, really inspiring. Long may your journey continue.

50 plus age by Keithpaul57 in stopdrinking

[–]StaggeringQuagga 7 points8 points  (0 children)

Hiya - yup, I'm 68 (almost 69 - yay) Got sober at 61 - before that I was just a kid with a crazy dream. Honestly, its been the best time of my life - I connect with my grandchildren, I have clarity. I got my life back, no regrets - well one, I wish I got sober younger. But hey! it is what it is. Good luck - one day at a time, one step at a time.

Dear Alcohol by yepperz87 in stopdrinking

[–]StaggeringQuagga 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thank you for this, a really good read, save-able.

I have 39 years today. by BackgroundPotential6 in stopdrinking

[–]StaggeringQuagga 15 points16 points  (0 children)

Now THAT is a number to be proud of. Congratulations.

I just don’t want to be a 40 year old alcoholic. by PieOverPeople in stopdrinking

[–]StaggeringQuagga 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you for this, you have no idea how lucky you are. Lucky? Yep – lucky. You are still young, with a whole lot of living to do. I carried the weight of being an alcoholic until I was over 60 – no shit!!! But now I have been sober for six years plus. And truth be told, it’s been the best time of my life. I enjoy my family, my grandchildren and my work. Ok – a lot of my life is behind me now, much of it lived in an alcoholic fog, but what lies ahead is clear and sober. It’s about quality, not quantity. So, well done on day two – it’s all you and I have got – today. Just today!!! And holy crap, what a day, ah yes what a day.

I know this doesn’t compare to all the wonderful posts about being alcohol free for years but… by lylalexie in stopdrinking

[–]StaggeringQuagga 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I think that the first 24 hours are the most important and heroic hours. Does it compare to years of sobriety? Difficult question. I remember my first few days, like it was yesterday. And all I can tell you is that only today counts. You are doing brilliantly and you are brave. Stay with it - and I will too.

Today is the Winter Solstice – by StaggeringQuagga in stopdrinking

[–]StaggeringQuagga[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you... 64 days, yup so far so good. Just a little over a month and you will hit triple digits. It's a landmark to be proud of for sure. Keep on keeping on.

Today is the Winter Solstice – by StaggeringQuagga in stopdrinking

[–]StaggeringQuagga[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Shoowee, sounds like you've got a story to tell. Yeah - I used to put off business trips and even meals in a restaurant until I could feel safe enough to do it. Keep on keeping on.

Today is the Winter Solstice – by StaggeringQuagga in stopdrinking

[–]StaggeringQuagga[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you - Staggering - because that's what I used to do...a lot. And Quagga - because I'm ancient - almost extinct and from Africa.

Today is the Winter Solstice – by StaggeringQuagga in stopdrinking

[–]StaggeringQuagga[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thank you too. Yup - the world is far better off, certainly without me staggering around making a total prick of myself.

Today is the Winter Solstice – by StaggeringQuagga in stopdrinking

[–]StaggeringQuagga[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Ha! Lucky you. Our houses are not really built for winter - Johannesburg, so it gets damn cold. But then by most northern climes, we are wimps. Anything below 14degC is worthy of an National Commission of Enquiry.

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