Ode to the Alcoholic

The walk of the boozer, the thoughts of the lush
The drinker lost in the swirl of liquid amnesia
Forever without hope, for always without solace
From the torment placed on self
The emptiness, the hole so deep and lightless

The sickness of soul, the numbing of mind
The veil of deception, so thin, so heavy
Mask torn from the eyes, see the darkness
Fill it with light and promises of hope
Full promises, not empty

Not alone, no despair, sanity
Freedom from addiction, peace of mind
Peace of heart and soul, found in support
From one to another, no need to suffer
Linked hands, linked hearts, unity in sobriety

-Lin Giles 2010

Alcohol is Cunning, Baffling, Powerful...

...they forgot to mention patient. As much time as you think you have, it has more. It waits for you to lower your guard and then it comes knocking at your brain.

I've been under a bit of stress lately what with full-time work, school and several close friends getting sick. I'm not talking, cold or flu sick, I'm talking fighting for life sick. It's got me feeling helpless, as there's nothing I can tangibly do for them. I cannot fly to them and hug them. I cannot make them well. All I can do is support them and give encouraging words and support. I know that means a lot but it still leaves me feeling helpless. And when I feel helpless, out of control, I start thinking about taking a drink to shut those feelings down. And all the while, the alcohol waits patiently.

I pray for the strength to make it through another day without reaching for a bottle. I pray for Him to fill my heart with love and my mouth with His words. I will not pray for patience, I know what happens when that prayer is answered, more is heaped on my shoulders.

Today, I will not drink. Alcohol can wait yet another day.