SECRETS OF SOBRIETY from THE ROAD LESS TRAVELED

I am Bob, an 85 year old alcoholic. This is my story, but in this story is much of the story of every alcoholic, his or her story, their obstacles, their answers, their failures. Herein lies many of the secrets of a road less traveled. A narrow road toward freedom from alcoholism.

The word alcoholism defines me well, yet I am 35 years without any alcohol in my system, this condition is, as you may be aware, is known as alcoholism. Alcoholism, as you may not be aware, is a disease and, surprisingly, may be the deadliest of all! Certainly, among the most challenging

Astonishingly, 12.7 % of the population is, by definition, alcoholic. Over 40,000,000 people.

Unfortunately, there is today no known medical "cure". Alcoholism was not successfully treated until 85 years ago, was not diagnosed until 1956.

I tell my story in the hope it might be of some benefit to those my experience, my strength, and my hope might be useful, especially to those who have a need to use alcohol or drugs as an answer to life's complexities, or to understand those who suffer.

I direct this book to those who may have a desire to stop drinking or using, to the average alcoholic and addict, and to whomever may have a desire to know more about Alcoholics Anonymous, recovery, and the disease thereof.

If you, or anyone important to you, has a problem with alcohol or drugs, read this book.

Bob is an 85-year-old retired entrepreneur, born on a farm near tiny Rochelle, Texas, population today 161. His parents early on were teachers earning $100.00 per month combined salaries. His father was a coach of all sports and his mom an elementary school teacher. Although he was to become a member of Mensa his early schooling was poor and his scholastic record was unremarkable.

He developed an early love of aircraft, and when the Korean War need for pilots reduced the college requirement for a college degree, he became an aviation cadet in the USAF. After his discharge he returned to The University of Texas.

His first job was with a major insurance company and in his first year was the number one agent in his division. His sales ability led him into many entrepreneurial experiences. Including importing yachts from the orient, and aircraft and arms sales.

He built two large storage facilities and other major construction projects. Probably his most interesting project was a large gold mining company occupying twenty-two square miles in the California desert south of Las Vegas, Nevada.

A recurring problem was alcoholism. He returned to college and received a degree in Alcohol and Drug Counseling. As pen touches paper he has had over 35 years of no alcohol in his system. He has shared his sobriety with hundreds of other men and women and much of the last twenty years have been occupied with sharing his knowledge of recovery.

Bob lives in San Diego, CA with his wife of fifty-three years.