Things My Sponsors Taught Me

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From the Book
Things My Sponsors Taught ME
By Paul H.

On Being Pressed, “What Do You Want in It?”

Tell them “A little cream,” or, “Some ice,” depending on what you ask for.

The lesson here is to be assertive, and not to compromise. If your host or hostess doesn’t hear you the first time, or refuses to hear you, make sure that the message gets across. After all, it’s your neck. When I fly, I am often asked, “Do you want a drink?” I sometimes answer, “Yes, I would. But I’m an alcoholic, so I choose not to.” To put it mildly, this gets the attendants attention. Most of the time, I get great service from then on, and all of the coffee I can handle! I guess they have enough experience with people who shouldn’t drink but do, and they’re appreciative of those of us who abstain.

The host or hostess who know you’re a recovering person will not press you. Some hosts and hostesses who are aware of what I am and what I’m doing about it, will ask me if I want a drink in order to give me the opportunity to refuse. I consider this exquisite manners, because they are joining my efforts by allowing me to make the necessary choices for my sobriety.

Please feel free to share your Experience, Strength, and Hope