Pat C.: 49 Years of Sobriety and Service in Alcoholics Anonymous
I felt that love- and for me god is love- it was like freedom.
What does it take to stay sober for nearly half a century? In this episode of 'AA Recovery Interviews', Pat C. opens up about his remarkable 49-year journey with Alcoholics Anonymous. Growing up in a dysfunctional family riddled with alcoholism, Pat turned to alcohol and drugs early on, seeking solace and a sense of belonging. His addiction quickly spiraled out of control, taking over every aspect of his life by his late teens.
But at the age of 20, he found his way to AA and never looked back. Pat immersed himself in the program, learning the fundamentals of sobriety from seasoned members who became his mentors. Over the decades, Pat has faced numerous challenges, including divorces, serious health issues, and family upheavals. Yet, through it all, his unwavering commitment to AA has not only kept him sober but also allowed him to help countless others on their own paths to recovery.
Pat's story is a testament to the power of community and the transformative impact of AA's principles. He shares how the support and love he found within the fellowship have been his lifeline, especially during tough times like the COVID-19 pandemic. Pat also discusses the importance of face-to-face meetings and how they have been crucial in maintaining his sobriety.
His passion for giving back to the AA community shines through as he talks about passing on the lessons he's learned to others. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of resilience, hope, and the enduring power of service in the journey of recovery.