Chris G. found AA over 15 years ago, but after the first year and a half, he decided to go back out. Relapse for some is a sad and tragic story. Many alcoholics are claimed by incarceration, institutionalization, or death before they have the chance to make it back. In Chris’ case, by the grace of God, he survived to finally return to AA and today has 4 and a half years of continuous sobriety.

I met Chris 15 years ago when he first came to AA, welcomed him into the fold, and was glad to see him every week. Despite the many time he slipped and came back, we were glad to see him and all of us encouraged him to do the work and reap the gifts of sobriety. Now, with nearly 5 continuous years in the Program, many of those gifts have shown up in Chris’ life, and are his to keep as long as he stays actively in the middle of the AA Program.

Chris’ story may be of particular interest to listeners in early sobriety, as well as newcomers and those back from relapse. It’s also essential listening for those who’ve been around a while who will appreciate the heartfelt gratitude for AA present in the experience, strength, and hope offered by my very special guest, Chris G.

[This is an encore of Episode 8, originally released January 24, 2021].

If you’ve enjoyed my AA Recovery Interviews series and my Big Book podcast, have a listen to Lost Stories of the Big Book, 30 Original Stories Missing from the 3rd and 4th Editions of Alcoholics Anonymous. It’s an engaging audiobook I narrated to bring these stories to life for AA members who’ve never seen them. These timeless testimonials were originally cut to make room for newer stories in the 3rd and 4th Editions. But their vitally important messages of hope are as meaningful today as when they were first published. Many listeners will hear these stories for the first time. Lost Stories of the Big Book is available on Audible, Amazon, and iTunes. It’s also available as a Kindle book and in Paperback from Amazon if you’d like to read along with the audio.

Check out I invite you to check out my latest audio book, “Alcoholics Anonymous: The Story of How More Than One Hundred Men Have Recovered From Alcoholism.” This is the word-for-word, cover-to-cover reading of the First Edition of the Big Book, published in 1939. It’s a comfortable, meaningful, and engaging way to listen to the Big Book anytime, anyplace. Have a free listen at Audible, i-Tunes, or Amazon.

[Disclaimer: AA Recovery Interviews podcast strictly adheres to AA’s 12 Traditions and all General Service Office guidelines for safe-guarding anonymity on-line. I pay all podcast production costs. AA Recovery Interviews and my guests do not speak for or represent AA at-large. This podcast is simply my way of giving back to AA that which has been so freely given to me. -Howard L.]