For those expecting a “Sci-Fi Friday” post, normal service will resume next week.
Today’s kinda special, though. Today, for me, marks three years of sobriety. I’m celebrating with tap water.
I think the world’s gonna get higher quality sci-fi from me because I quit drinking. Writing, it turns out, is easier while sober. Who knew? Yes, I know there are plenty of writers who keep themselves soaked in drink while they write. Doesn’t work for me. In fact, I think drinking was actually preventing me from growing as a writer, from getting better. Can’t have that, can I?
After three years, I know I haven’t won. But I’m winning. And that’s pretty good. Staying sober may have gotten a little easier, but I still have moments of panic when I’m in situations where alcohol is freely available and the social atmosphere is such that my brain starts wishing for a little something to take the edge off. Of course, with me, it was never just a “little something.”
I should mention that I’m not one of those “alcohol is evil” people. Lots of people can enjoy responsibly, or can at least make themselves think they can. Either way, I don’t judge. But drinking just ain’t for me.
If you think you might have a drinking problem, help is available. Check out www.aa.org for resources near you.
Stay safe, and I’ll see you next week.