Posts Tagged ‘Narcotics Anonymous’

During the holidays a person can feel lonelier than ever. If that person has had a drug or alcohol addiction in the past, the cravings and urges can rise up even stronger than usual. So how does one combat these feelings? In Texas and elsewhere there is a great community of support in meeting rooms in practically every city or town; Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous.

This time of year it is important that a person who has recovered from a drug or alcohol addiction to realize that he or she is not alone. Memories, depression, pessimism can all set in even someone has not had a substance abuse problem. How much greater do they occur when one has?

Whatever the situation a person finds himself in, being able to go to a meeting and be with others who are feeling the same cravings, fighting the same demons, is a gift beyond measure during the holiday season. Walking through the doors, you can immediately feel a sense of camaraderie as you can see in the faces of the others attending that they are similar souls dealing with similar issues.

Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous meetings at this time of year can have their own celebratory feel. You have conquered a battle, you have won the war and you are keeping your armor ready so that it continues to ward off the cravings and urgings. Just as a cowboy would go after cattle rustlers, just as we defended the Alamo, those of us in Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous in the state of Texas would help you fight the darkness that can lead to a relapse.

Being part of one of these meetings does not simply symbolize a person has had a substance abuse problem of some kind. No, it symbolizes that a person has taken the steps to end the addiction and continues to fight the good fight. These meetings are filled with optimism and hope, with aftercare and support. If you tell someone you are fighting a particularly strong urge, you will be surrounded with support, truth, knowledge and combat buddies.

Meetings at Christmastime are filled with members and newcomers struggling to deal with the painful side of memorable holidays and if you are someone in a similar situation, then go to a meeting near you immediately. They run at all hours of the day and night depending on where you are. If you have not been to a meeting, you should go.  The friends you make there will strengthen you.  It will be one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself this holiday season.