“First Things First” #13 of the Living Sober book was our reading tonight. It’s about putting yourself and your sobriety first. Yes, that means putting it in front of other responsibilities, relationships, and chores. I haven’t been doing this. Not in the slightest bit. I have been placing my job, spouse, daily responsibilities, my ailing father, and even my comfort in front of sobriety.
High noon meetings aren’t near my work and I am limited in meeting choices close to my home. When I do get home I usually like to stay home. Getting redressed and traveling 30 minutes in the cold to a seven or eight pm meeting is inconvenient. Staying home in cozy pajamas is more my style. To put sobriety and my self first, I have to change my way of thinking. Meetings are important and must be attended to support sobriety.
I can’t be there to do what needs to be done if my health is failing and I’m in a drunken state unable able to stay in control. I probably won’t remember or feel motivated to do the tasks that are required. Nor will I be capable of handling the care of my father. Simply stated, when people need me, I won’t be there.
A journey to sobriety