Why, Why, WHY do addicts insist on make a simple program so difficult? (Answer: The need to control every minute of their daily life). A client once asked me, “How are going to stay sober today?” I replied, “Well, let’s see….I’m not going to drink any alcohol.” “Good, good” replied the client (as he took notes) and then asked “What else?”
Come on people – we are not performing brain surgery here. We are not building a piano or painting the Sistine Chapel. We are following a simple path that allows us, just for today, to remain sober. I finally satisfied the client, who had to hear “what else” by telling him that I was not going to drink today because I had more important things to do. (Before he could ask what they were, I gave him an assignment to work on).
Throughout the Big Book are reminders that we need to “keep it simple” – “a day at a time” – “First things first” – “Easy does it”. Put away your scalpel, your hammer, and your paintbrush – you don’t need them today. I think I’ll stay sober today by not drinking any alcohol, writing an entry for the blog, and going to a meeting. What’s your plan?
