Getting through the door of sobriety is probably the longest walk for some. I’ve seen so many friends involved with drugs or alcohol it’s not funny. The worst part is I don’t associate with them any longer because of it. I’ve suffered at their hands and mouths because they were so screwed up. I’ve witnessed them destroying themselves in front of others. I’ve seen the bait and switch and I’ve been on the end of it.

I get that feeling of regret from this writing. It’s honest and real and a warning for others. There’s no fluff in your writing and that’s why so many here appreciate you.

One critique if I may. I would ditch the robot voice. It neglects the emotion and pauses it takes to read a good poem. Just my two cents. 🙂

I can feel your pain Damian through these words. Wonderfully put together. Nice work.

Wonderful write Damian. Yes, we come here to share our experiences with others. There’s a vulnerability about it which is heartwarming and makes for great human connection.
Excellent rhythm, rhyme and flow. Keep up the good work.

I’ve had my own struggles with vodka and amphetamines, so this resonates. Being clean has accentuated how beautiful is the world. You never play victim or blame others. Refreshing perspective. I wish you much luck on your journey.

As an aside, think I’m the only Brit on this site (well, Welsh actually, but it’s complicated) which is stark contrast to DU. I’m open minded thou, and respect all nations, all people.

hello dearest Damian we have each other this is from the heart ❤️

Tremendous work. Powerful.

I wish you strength and persistence, Damian. I’ve never had an addiction to any drugs or alcohol. Too much damage seen when growing up. I love a few drinks, of course. But not crazy amounts.
As far as writing sites, they are definitely a medicine for our mental anguishes. And obviously the camaraderie that is formed with a few solid people that we encounter. I wonder myself how I would have turned out if I had never started posting my material in AOL boards back then. It changed my outlook and my confidence in a few ways.
Find the positives here, and in life in general. Embrace them. It will save you.

Very impressive ink Damian .. that kidney punch hits bang on target .. and with much respect glad to be in your corner .. Neville 😎👍

I never really know what to comment on poetry, I whether like it or not. Because mostly it’s so personal and ‘concealed’ – as a reader you don’t really know what exactly the poet meant. Or maybe it’s just me 😀 But this one I really liked, especially the “Knowing that I’m never alone is where I begin” … it resonated within me.

Al

The idea that addiction is weakness never stuck with me. I’ve known too many brilliant, creative and compassionate people who struggled with addiction to ever buy that bullshit. I’ve never fought with addiction personally, but it strikes me sometimes that healing and growing are somewhat similar to trauma damage. And too often the two are intricately interwoven. We build community…with others experiencing the same things and telling ourselves there’s no problem because we’re not alone. But then we start the journey and our community changes…from enabling to empowering and encouraging. We’re building a solid little community here with our pens and our personal journeys. I know I would be lost without it. This resonates so much with me, my friend

Passionately penned, Tim. Into the book it belongs! Excellent write my friend, you’re a great storyteller brother. I love pieces about music and this one didn’t disappoint. I remember the whole back masking deal, it all came to head during the Judas Priest trial. And then some people wonder what made the band write the “Painkiller” album after that trial. Nicely done. Appreciate you.

Totally hear you on this one. Proud GenXer (born in 74) but I was influenced by my uncle who showed me bands like the Beatles and Queen. Yes, there was something special about those bands that to this day still have an influence on everyone. The 27 Club has always been interesting to me, those guys (and gals) have left that last impression, tragic and mysterious and the “what could have been” leaving many questions unanswered. Whenever I pull some of this music in van my kids call it the Geriatric Rock, but it’s one of the greatest eras of music.

Magically penned, Brenda. A truly amazing write my friend. Appreciate you.

Damian

Mysterious, dark and intriguing. Great piece of poetry Brenda.

Passionately penned, Brenda. An excellent write my friend. Appreciate you.

Damian

Powerfully penned, Brenda. Incredible write my friend. Appreciate you.

Damian