Serenity, Courage and Wisdom

[Catmando]

Hello fellow Beethoven Forum Members,

Many of you have seen those three words in this post title in my profile signature. These words are of great importance to me.

February 25, 2006 was a very important day in my life. On that day, I admitted openly to myself, and to another, that I was an alcoholic. That day was a blessing for me.

I have been sober ever since that day, and am now a recovering alcoholic. It's been hard, but also life has never been better for me. I am in a group that meets regularly to discuss our affliction with this disease, which has been a great thing for me.

One of the things that helps provide me with all important serenity and joy is my recent discovery of classical music. Classical music is so many great things, that if I can only sum up in one word, that word is beauty.

I've found a great place here at the Beethoven Forum where I can discuss and share my fondness, love and passion for classical music with many people, from all regions of the world. This, along with other topics and diversions of life. And that has is also a blessing.

If anyone ever wishes to privately discuss the matter of alcoholism or other addictions that afflict many people, you are always welcome to send me a private message. I'd be more than happy to discuss, share and listen.

Sincerely yours,

Ray "Catmando"

[bignaf]

Anyone who posts on the PW Thread is addicted to BBB postings.

[Serenity]

I am happy for you and feel lucky to know you here on the board, sharing love of this music together.


I feel I have not travelled as far as you have on this path but I feel better knowing someone is looking back over their shoulder, ready to lend a hand.

[Catmando]

Thanks Serenity! back at ya!

And yes *ig, I have an addiction to this board! And coffee.....and Beethoven.

[bignaf]

the outer two addictions can be beneficial. I don't know about the middle one.

[Catmando]

You don't like coffee *ig?

[bignaf]

I like fancy fresh coffee in small amounts. my stomach doesn't like coffee. (getting old, stomach complaints...)

[Catmando]

Getting old? I thought you were 'bout the same age as moi?

[bignaf]

I think I'm younger actually (24). I have an old soul though, I bought it second hand.

[Serenity]

Now why would you go out and buy and old, second hand soul?

[Catmando]

You are younger. I'm 32.

I was gonna paste a few pictures of myself, but not sure what the procedure is.


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[OperaTenor]

Ray, I am honored by your selfless courage in sharing yourself with me in this way. If there is ever any way I can be of help, please let me know.

Jim

[Catmando]

Thanks OT umm..er Jim!

Certainly nothing I'm ashamed about and have no problem sharing this fact of myself with anyone.

[piqaboo]

Good on ya, Cat. Keep up the good work, and work the steps.
One day at a time.

99 pots of coffee on a wall, 99 pots of coffee.....
I drank mine down, I'd never pass it around,
98 pots of coffee on the wall.

(I share at least one of your addictions)

[Selma in Sandy Eggo]

98 pots of Millstone French Vanilla on the wall
98 pots of coffee
take one down
(don't pass it around!)
97 pots of Millstone French Vanilla on the wall!

[Selma in Sandy Eggo]

97 pots of Millstone Chocolate Velvet on the wall
97 pots of coffee
take one down
(don't pass it around!)
96 pots of Millstone Chocolate Velvet on the wall!

[Selma in Sandy Eggo]

96 pots of Millstone Hazelnut Cream on the wall
96 pots of coffee
take one down
(don't pass it around!)
95 pots of Millstone Hazelnut Cream on the wall!

[Selma in Sandy Eggo]

95 bolts of fabric on the wall,
95 bolts of fabric
take six down,

Oops, never mind. Wrong addiction.

[Selma in Sandy Eggo]

Seriously, Bravo and all that. It's a hard road but it'll be worth it.

[GreatCarouser]

Congratulations! It seems you are well on your way to learning to live with your addiction rather than being ruled by it. Now I think if you can just continue taking the necessary steps all will be well.