In some thread in the last few days, someone said something like "It helps the newbies to see that even the veterans can sometimes slip". I just wanted to say how much I agree with that. One of the best things in this program, for me, is that we are all helping each other. There is no real hierarchy - no all wise all knowing old timers, and screwed up newcomers. Instead, we are all dealing with the disease one day at a time, some days doing well, some days falling back into old patterns. It helps to see that we don't have to be perfect, just to be trying. It also helps to see how someone with a long time in the program may give in to despair one day, but be back on track the next. Newcomers also have a lot to share - I often find that while giving a word of comfort to a newcomer, I am telling myself something that I needed to hear!

I haven't been here that long but it is funny when I have replied to a post and then am having a hard time, sometimes my own comforting words come back to me....it's nice to know that we allow ourselves to be comforting and can also comfort.

Hugs Mary

Hi!

I'm new to this board, and new to Alanon too.  My partner has been sober from alcohol for 10 years, but has picked up a brand new addiction to inhalants over the past year.  I'm dealing with the fear that he will be dead one day when I come home.  It's the absolute worst thing in the world.  I'm just starting going to meetings, and am reading the 12 steps and 12 traditions of Alanon.  I am also looking to get a sponsor and starting to work the steps. 

Just wanting to say hi...

Thanks for having this site.

Guy