It is easy to tell of the evils of addiction when it isn't someone you know... but when addiction "hits home" it is difficult at best - for me it's a nightmare because I know first hand what lies ahead for this person if they continue on their present path...
This poem along with my poem "Generations" was used in Asotin County in the State of Washington, for a press release announcing "National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month," in 2006.
The photo on the right is a creation of mine which later was used to create the animated banners for my website.
Let's Get Honest
Don't tell me your stories
I have tales of my own
don't tell me your girlfriend left
I know that pain quite well
don't tell me no one understands
we know that isn't true
around the tables
they'll listen... they'll share
they're drunks... like me and you
It's a program... with 12 steps
promising relief
with your Higher Power
you'll learn the beliefs
with humility on your side
you'll lose that foolish pride
You'll accept responsibility
for what you have done
making amends... as best you can
slowly
you'll start to feel... whole again
It's not about willpower or control
it's admitting we're powerless
and surrender is the only way
just try it... at least for a day
Only one thing you'll have to do
be honest
everyone will notice the change in you
it may not happen overnight
or as fast as you wish
There will be rocky roads ahead
bettered handled sober
then drunk and brain-dead
"I'm an alcoholic"
is all you have to say
it's the first step
to a new life
and a better way
thoughts from "authors den"
ReplyDeleteReviewed by Ali Flair (Reader) 1/21/2006
wow! i loved this poem so much and it even made me cry a little bit. i am not an alcoholic but my father is a recovered alcoholic and one of my ex-boyfriends who is 20 is an alcoholic. he worries me to death. we don't talk anymore but i still care very much about him and want the best for him. all of his friends are drunks too and i know i am the only one who even gives a real shit about him which is sad. thanx a lot for sharing your poem with all of us. i loved it!
Ali.
Reviewed by jude forese 1/21/2006
an important message you offer in this poem ... it should be read in AA meetings as a source of inspiration and strength ,,,
Reviewed by Kate Clifford 1/14/2006
This is priceless in its wisdom and you have paid a high price to understand it and share it.
Reviewed by Felix Perry 1/14/2006
Such a powerful message yet still so ignored by those who are still in denial and continue to hurt themselfs and those around them.
Felix
Reviewed by Tinka Boukes 1/14/2006
Powerful message Dave!!
I tried once to let my hubby read one of your confessions...and Oh boy did it explode in my face!!
Wish to GOD he will get help soon!!
Reviewed by Cathrine Hottran 1/14/2006
well written!
Reviewed by Cynth'ya Reed 1/13/2006
This needs to be in every church bulletin in the nation. Starting with my own! blessin's to you Bro. Dave!
cynth'ya lewis reed
Reviewed by L. Figgins 1/13/2006
Yes, straight to the heart of the matter! Has to rate as one of your best, Dave, and I applaud your courage in this revealing. No more excuses or misplaced blame-we all must face ourselves honestly, no matter what addiction or obsession. Dynamite write...Lin
Reviewed by E T Waldron 1/13/2006
This is an excellent message/poem, that is done with wisdom and understanding. Well done Dave!.......