The stories we hear at 12-step meetings are sometimes unbelievable. War stories by addicts saying something real for once in their life. Talking in front of peers who can see through lies so they must say the truth.
The drinking and drugging tales are so incredible we know they can't be true. But our experience tells us they are because we did something similar.
These are stories of heart-wrenching loss. Of mothers losing custody of babies. Or maybe a soul mate or a loved one lost to an overdose or an accident. Maybe a prison or jail term.
Tragedies unfold one after another. But then there's another side that puts things in balance.
And these are stories of rebuilt lives. Of reunification with families and lovers. Of mothers and fathers who once called the police on them now flying across the country to visit.
The tales of success give newcomers a reason to come back. Maybe some of the good mojo will rub off on them. Maybe they'll be able to rebuild almost forgotten dreams and get their lives back in order.
And that's why most of us go to the meetings. There's enough of the good stuff to keep us coming back.
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