This is a great idea! As so many of us with weight issues having compulsions that have led us to this point.

I will admit that I do not struggle with the compulsion to overeat, although I have had my moments. My struggle is with alcohol, it is my escape from "feeling fat" or being embarrassed in social situations about how I look. I have tried to stop many times and am not successful. At AA and Celebrate recovery I got stuck on number 4, I think from just lack of knowledge on how to complete that step. Anyways, it is a terrible habit and my children are starting to reach an age where they are aware of it. I am concerned that this will be my greatest obstacle with the lap band as the eating is not really a big problem. Anyone else who struggles with alcohol? and is having the band or has the band? I would like to hear from you.

Some of the things people in OA make amends for are:

-eating other people's food (at work, home, kid's halloween candy)

-numbing self out with food and being emotionally unavailable for family and friends,

-some shoplift food,

-focusing so much on food for you that you short your family their favorites when you grocery shop,

-not enjoying friend's company because you are trying to figure out when dinner will be served,

-choosing activities based on the food served,

-not going to activities because of shame of size (like kid's school events)

You don't need to cross this bridge until you WORK the steps which means you go over each one with someone who is ahead of you in recovery and who has also worked the steps.

Hope this gives you more ideas.

Connie

the truth of the matter is that is does not matter what one uses to 'check out' - alcohol, drugs, food, sex, gambling etc etc.

the problem isn't those 'things'. the problem is, as the book says, centered in our minds. we are uncomfortable in our skin and are unable to live in the day that we're in without reaching for something else.

the purpose of the program of AA/OA/GA/SA/CA/MA ... (as it says on page 45 of the Big Book) is to help us find a power greater than yourself that will solve our problems. it also says, on the same page, LACK OF POWER THAT WAS OUR DILEMMA.

i first got into AA back in 2001. i could put together some time (9months, year, 6 months etc etc) but kept 'going out'. My sobriety date is 12/10/06 and for the first time ever i've been in the book more and have truly worked all steps. i also sponsor 3 guys. for those of you who are new to AA or at an impasse, i suggest reading page 567. then go to page 45, then to page 25 and i finish up with the Doctors Opinion. Then start with Bill Story and go for it!

that really lays the ground work for what AA is, our problem and the solution.

if anyone wants to chat about things, feel free to PM me anytime.

you best resource in your area is AA Central Office. Google it and call them.

*remember "time", as they call it means nothing. you could have 6 months or 60 years. just b/c someone has lots of time under their belt doesn't mean that are a good resource to go to. don't listen to their words, look at their actions. are they resentful, judgmental, gossiping, self centered, acting on ego? if so, regardless of 'time' look for someone else to work with.

AA saved my life. and now with this little band thing - i get to live my life.

check out my sponsors website: www.theaaway.com

there is an awesome meditation on the homepage. PM me with your thoughts.

Edited May 10, 200818 yr by RAS_STI

I must say, I am scared to death about being banded and not being able to give up the alcohol. .

Funny, I was afraid of that too. Now I'm afraid of what will happen if I don't stop. It's gotten out of hand. Completely.

Anyone have any experience with antabuse or other drugs like it? I am strongly considering trying it. Something has to give. I got this band to be a healthier me, not a useless drunk.

My Brother is a raging alcoholic. The only thing that has helped him is the antibuse. It is worth a try. Good luck.