From the Grass Roots

I am getting a real kick out of others' appreciation of my sobriety. The benefits accruing from sobriety, both spiritual and material are all conducive to that serenity of mind which brings peace, languidly into our fives. Folks who haven't seen us for some time are rather amazed at our new way of life--for instance: Three weeks ago we had a visit here from my old Army boss from the Middle East days. He has left the Army now and is Director of one of the London Schools of Tropical Medicine (Brigadier Rank). He was a Scot and as such took a great interest in me. So great that he used to post me to all the forsaken sand-dunes in Arabia to keep me away from the booze! I saw him last on the Sea of Galilee in 1942. He was taken aback to see me here, as he was probably under the impression that I had been buried under the floor of some Arab Grog Shop many moons ago. We got talking and inevitably the subject came round to my old habits. He was amazed when I told him that I had stopped three years ago due to the help I had got from AA. He had heard of AA, but I was the first member that he had met. Says he, "Your old colonel would be pleased if he knew of this." I said, "He knows, I've helped a few of his friends to attain a sober life by bringing AA into their lives." The latter part has its funny side when I recall the CO's remarks (very sainted). The old man was very pleased, needless to say, and gave me some work to do for him. This is a mark of approbation in medical circles.