I write today as I approach my 13th birthday, ODAAT. The Fellowship is truly magnificent and I am so very privileged and honoured to be a member of it.

Recovery has been a simple, beautiful journey (problems included), because I have been given the tools to live a peaceful, simple and happy life. AA has taught me how to stay away from a drink, just for one day, for oneself, by using my Programme, sponsor and Higher Power. Life in itself has become a miracle. The joy of waking up each day fresh and clean, free from agitation and alcohol cravings, knowing that the day before I have not intentionally hurt or offended anyone is beyond MY wildest dreams.

I have met so many wonderful friends throughout my journey and, sadly, some are no longer with us, but have passed away sober - too many miracles to mention individually. I have true friends who are there unconditionally, many of whom are still in my original group which was the Linwood Thursday Night group.

I thank you all, as I thank my current group members of Ardrossan Sunday Morning, Toast and Marmalade meeting. You have all been instrumental in my journey and without you all I could never have reached or even dreamt of reaching where I am today.

You see, I suffer from an illness that only allows me to get well again by talking, sharing and caring with other alcoholics and all the sharing we do works both ways - we all get better together by remembering the Traditions of this beautiful Fellowship.

I know both my daughters would thank you for having a sober Mum back in their lives again and my granddaughter Eve, who is three, has never seen Gran drunk, and if Gran keeps doing what AA tells her to do, then Eve need never see Gran drunk.

Recovery has been a simple, beautiful journey. I have lived life fuller over the last 13 years thanks to AA and its members

I have been given a gift which I treasure daily – It is my life. Thank you all.

Yours in fellowship,

Rachel, Ardrossan Sunday Morning Group