My name is Leslie, and I am an alcoholic.

My sobriety is the most important thing in my life. I got sober in 1973 and am proof that by following directions this program works. My first sponsor was a crusty old guy who didn't mince a lot of words. You just don't drink and that way you don't get drunk. I love seeing young people coming to the program, they are so alive and have such hope. I was 26 when I got here and was usually the youngest in the meeting, now I see teenagers come in and feel so rewarded that the message is being carried.

I love AA, I love everything it has given me and I love sharing the program. Sometimes life gets hard, you lose people you love, jobs go down the tubes, but no matter what happens that is bad, something good happens as well, and I know that all I have to do is not drink and put one foot in front of the other and The Promises will come true for me and for you. Keep coming back, get involved in service, you will be rewarded beyond your wildest dreams. Thanks for being in my mailbox every morning to start my day too!

In sobriety, Leslie M., California