- Alcohol
- Drugs
- Faith
Submitted by: Susanne Johnson
Paul started to use alcohol at the age of 17 followed by marijuana at age 18. Drinking and using was fun in his life for a while, but it was taking at toll on his health and more, he feels that the Lord called him to stop and change his life. He was tired of living that low life and made the choice to live a better life last year in October.
Paul lives in Mound City, IL, a small village outside of Metropolis, in Southern Illinois. His father died when Paul was 13 and he was raised by his mother. He was about to lose his job, coming in hungover and angry at all times. Today, just a half year after he stopped drinking and using, he feels much better in his health and his entire being. Paul is also more dependable and his relationships with other people, especially at work, have improved. He stepped up in his current job in maintenance.
As he knew he had to change something, a friend of his that he works with knew about a 12-step meeting nearby in Metropolis, at the library. He called the library and found out about their meeting times to show up there and ask for help. Paul found help, a sponsor, a fellowship, and hope.
All his life he had a problem talking with people. Drinking was his social lubricant to help him over this hurdle. He does not have this problem anymore– he feels more comfortable around others today, even talking to complete strangers.
“I started to read books and also to play the guitar. I have dreams and goals in my life today. I want to go back and get some better education, which I neglected in the past due to my drinking. I would love to become a licensed contractor and start a new life and a new career.” Paul says, “I want to achieve something while I’m still young. I can do this since I’m sober now.”
Paul is 36 today, goes to church and reads the Bible a lot. He believes that the 12-step program and his religion do not exclude each other, they compliment each other, and Paul feels that the 12-step-meetings are a great place to get things off his chest. “I’m very grateful for what I have today,” Paul states. “Be willing and take the first step.”