Celebrating Sobriety

A STATEMENT repeated by a million people throughout the world, now as well-known as "open sesame," goes like this: "My name is--and I'm an alcoholic." Put a name in the blank, and it becomes a personal statement of celebration. Raised eyebrows may appear at the word "celebration" in connection with alcoholics, but our ability to recognize the disease, change our lives, and accept the term "alcoholic" is indeed a reason for celebration. To go from deep despair into joy and laughter is cause enough to light the lights and dance all night.