Alcoholism

A Story by Joey1018

A short essay

Everyone knows that I have struggled with alcoholism. Lately I have noticed a lot of articles on FB saying that alcoholism is not a disease, but a choice. Articles written, by the way, by people that have never suffered from it. The American Medical Association officially classifies alcoholism as a disease, complete with its own pathology. Science has proven there is a genetic component, and it tends to run in families. Some people cross the line and become alcoholics through excessive drinking, and some, like me, were born alcoholics. I had a problem from the moment I took my first drink. I have been sober for over four years now, and because of that I now have a choice. As soon as I ingest alcohol, however, I loose that choice. Alcohol triggers a compulsion, a craving, over which I have no control whatever. It is, truly, a pathological mental illness for which there is no cure. Through the program of Alcoholics Anonymous, I have been able to force my disease into remission, with God's help; but I will be an alcoholic from now on. All the people who think we decided to develop a drinking problem, have absolutely no clue, and I'm thankful for that because I wouldn't wish this sickness on anyone. I did decide to get help though, and therein lies the only choice we do have as alcoholics. My sponsor, whose name I won't mention, has stood beside me through so much, and I cannot even put my gratitude into words. I have seen my sponsees relapse and come back, and I pray the ones that are out now make it back, because it doesn't always happen. Statistically, the odds are against us, and every relapse is a gamble on not being able to put it down again, and for us; alcohol is poison. If you or someone you know struggles with alcoholism, message me and I will give you my number. I will help as much as I can. To those that don't believe this is a legitimate disease, I sincerely pray that you are never shown differently, because if alcoholism ever touches you, you will know a suffering you never imagined possible.

© 2017 Joey1018

Author's Note

This is all based on my personal experience...I am a recovering alcoholic a little over 4 years sober

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Reviews

Shy Joe

A fellow Joe that also suffers from Alcoholism. Writing is a great outlet to escape, "The Thirst".

Now on to the contents of your article, I agree with most of it. I am empathetic toward most addicts as I am one myself. I know the struggle.

Your use of comma's are a little excessive.
Example: " Statistically, the odds are against us, and every relapse is a gamble on not being able to put it down again, and for us; alcohol is poison."--- You could kill the comma after "Statistically" and the semicolon after "us" is unnecessary.

All in all, I loved your article. I enjoy reading a write that is written with passion and this clearly was. Written with a purpose. Thanks for sharing.