A Big Slice of Life

We have a great tradition of celebrating milestones in recovery. The always well attended Birthday Night, the last Saturday of the month, lets us celebrate our now sober lives. Called out, one at a time, the celebrants get to stand in front of their peers, say a few words (or a lot of words), get their chip for that year and a little certificate of acknowledgement. Some speak little (it can be scary to be up there behind the lectern), many speak of the wonders of being sober, some with tears, some bringing the house down with the great sense of humor particular to alcoholics. Surrounded by friends both known and unknown and family members for the really lucky ones, it becomes a remarkably memorable moment.

Last night a big group of us met at Ninfa's for Mexican food and fellowship. We were there to honor a few fellow alcoholics who had reached their first year of sober life or many years of spiritual growth. Dennis, celebrating eleven years, sat in the Papa seat at the head of the table. Dennis loves his iced tea and pours mounds of sugar into each glass, leaving torn and shredded little empty sugar packets littering his place setting. His partner of seventeen years, Richard, joined us. Amber and Wade were celebrating one year each. At the meal's end the waitstaff came rushing up, screaming and banging bells, put a very large sombrero on Amber and launched into a raucous rendention of 'Happy Birthday'. Amber's beauty shines and she is always smiling. From the lectern Wade shared how he was overwhelmed and gave thanks to everyone (especially David, David, David, David and David) that has gone before him in this program. I have watched with wonder at how this past year has given him back his life, a job he loves and some modern, private transportation.

The sense of awe always eclipses my emotions sitting in the big room, listening to each one share from the heart. I am dumbfounded by my luck at having found a new lease on life. I, too, am grateful for all those who have preceded me in this program that this year celebrated seventy years.

More pictures posted here. You can also view them as a slideshow.