Warning Bells

Thoughtfood for Tuesday, June 30. 2009

Warning Bells

The thought of a drink is not necessarily

the same thing as the desire for one,

and neither need plunge us into gloom or fear.

Both can be viewed simply as warning bells

to remind us of the perils of alcoholism.
.- Living Sober, pp. 43-44

From the Big Book:

"If he says yes, does he really mean it, or down inside does he think he is fooling you, and that after rest and treatment he will be able to get away with a few drinks now and then?  We believe a man should be thoroughly probed on these points.  Be satisfied he is not deceiving himself or you."

c. 1939, AAWS, Alcoholics Anonymous, To Employers, p.142.

Prayer for the day:

" I pray that I may not carry the burden of the past.  I pray that I may cast it off and press on in faith."

c. 1975, Hazelden Foundation, Twenty-Four Hours A Day, June 30.

Quote for the day:

"A fool who, after plain warning, persists in dosing himself with dangerous drugs should be free to do so, for his death is a benefit to the race in general."  __Henry Louis Mencken (American Humorist and Critic 1880 - 1956)

My share:

Fortunately, Mr Mencken (above) was making a joke.  But it indicates the general attitude alcoholics faced in the days before A.A., that they were hopeless and better off dead.  I am so grateful that A.A. is alive and well and able to continue the tradition of helping the helpless.  Be Good To You, Dave