At least, I think I have a problem. And if I think it, finally, then my friends and family probably know it. It seems awfully self-indulgent to write about it here, but if I write it for you to see, I’m hoping you’ll hold me to it.
I like to drink. A lot. I mean, I like to drink frequently and I like to drink more than I should. Too much, I think. Beer and Irish whisky are my poisons of choice. I always have. As a professional musician it was just part of the scene. No one except my wife really made any big deal about it. That’s bad enough, but now that I’m a family man I have to consider them. I’ve always wondered what alcoholics feel like - didn’t think I’d ever know first hand. I’m not sure if I am or not, but I’m talking to my doctor in the morning. They say that the best way to quit smoking is to make sure everyone knows about it. That way you’re shamed into it, in a sense, by those who love you most.
Ask me. Ask me. Ask me.
UPDATE: the doctor can’t see me until next Tuesday, but I’ve made an appointment to talk to him. Tracey and I have talked through my situation and she’s being very supportive. I’m blessed to have wonderful people in my life now. I couldn’t have done this a few years ago.
7 Comments
Wow. First step is to admit there’s a problem. Second is to find support. You got it. Family and friends are the best place to start. Praise God you have a beautiful little girl in ‘lil Rose, best motivation a man can have. Kepping you in my prayers!
Neophyte Pundit
Rich,
Wow. This post took real courage. You’re in our prayers (as is your family). If your brothers in the RMA can help in any way, let us know.
We’re here for you, Rich. God Bless.
Rich,
It’s always good to ask these kind of questions. There are physical symptoms to addiction. Your doctor will talk to you about them.
More important — what is happening to your relationship with your family? Not being addicted does not mean that things are going to go smoothly when you drink.
I too like to have a beer on occasion. Sometimes more than one. (never more than a couple) I don’t drink and drive. It is having no effect on my family. I haven’t been ‘hung over’ since college. There are times in my life when I’ve had more and long periods of time when I’ve had less.
George Bush is a great role model. A lot of people on the left refer to him as an ex-drunk. He probably wasn’t. But it was effecting him and his relationship with his family. He stopped drinking stone cold. (In many left wing circles this would be considered very admirable.) He now drinks non-alcoholic beer and doesn’t appear to miss the real thing.
There are great resources out there if you think you need help. Let me know if I can do anything.
rjk
Rich–
Big props for facing the mirror this way in public. I will pray for you and your family, and hope that you find the help you’re looking for.
Rich,
Good for you for taking the first step. Your thinking that there may be a problem took a lot of courage, and you should be very proud of yourself for asking the questions. We will keep you in our prayers. To echo Jared, please let us know how we can help.
Yup. Go for it.
As a grateful recovering alcoholic I welcome you to this question. I encourage you to go to a meeting…there is a really good one near you at 6:30 every morning of the week…behind the carwash on Buckley and Illif, in the strip of storefronts that face west. Called the Aurora Club. I would be happy to go with you to your first meeting if you want company.
Bless You.