(PROVIDED I DO NOT PICK UP THE FIRST DRINK) In a year from today, I see myself living my life with a new ease. I see myself dealing with challenges through prayer and meditation, and not through substances and distractions. I see myself free from fear in all its forms. I see myself reaching solutions to problems and tasks, rather than searching for distractions to put off facing those parts of my life. I see myself having completed a fourth and fifth step to the best of my ability, with as much honesty as I can possibly give, without holding back. I see myself having experienced a spiritual awakening, and feeling the guilt and shame of my past being lifted as I have made my amends. I see myself feeling as though I am finally on a level playing field with the rest of the world- not owing anything to anybody. I see myself having the courage to live the life that I want to live; as opposed to the life I think I ‘should’ live to appear as though I’m holding it together. I see myself no longer having to ‘hold it together,’ because I will no longer feel like I need to win everybody’s approval, and living a good life will no longer be a struggle. I see myself working towards achievements that I never would have dared dream of before, instead of hoping they would materialize through thoughts and wishes. I see myself intuitively knowing how to utilize the tools provided in AA to manage situations better, and will be in the habit of stopping to pause before allowing my instinctive alcoholic thinking to barge into a reaction that could be damaging. I see myself being involved in service work, and thoroughly enjoying myself doing it. I see myself feeling useful and involved, and being grateful for the opportunities to give back, and to act on my gratitude for the gifts of sobriety that I have received. I see myself being able to build and sustain valuable relationships, from a place of love and care, and through action. I see myself feeling comfortable socializing not only with people in the fellowship, but also outside of AA. I see myself being accepting, and appreciating the positive in people. – anonymous Newcomer