Since our last issue of Essay, we learned that Mark M. of West New York, NJ died of complications from AIDS. I met Mark a couple of times, and he would phone me from time to time over the years, so I followed his progress in the program.
…I agree wholeheartedly [with J.L.’s letter regarding hugging in February ESSAY], it’s sad to say, but it’s such a slippery place whenever angels dare tread. Today I know the difference between my old body-grinder hugs and an appropriate lean forward gentle family hug, but how many newcomers know that!
I am writing you about the details of Michelle’s death. It has taken me awhile due to grief. I hope these details will be shared so others will find help. Michelle was beaten and tortured to death for two and one-half days.
I assume I’m writing to the Central Office. I’m so thankful I received the big white envelope with ESSAY. I was really needing it. After my father died, two weeks ago, I started acting out again. I was perplexed, and numb with fear, I prayed to God for a miracle. The next day I got the envelope in the mail. Hope is renewed again.
As always, my deepest thanks to you and the Central Office staff for all your hard work and dedication to this life-saving program of Sexaholics Anonymous. Without your efforts, passing the message on, something very necessary for my sobriety and indeed my very existence, would be very difficult. I want to reiterate my appreciation and ask God’s Blessing on you all at the Simi Valley office.
Thanks so much for your letter. I was feeling down, and my addiction was being painfully felt. Your note called me back to the program and my recovery. A few minutes later the phone rang, and I was offered a rather suggestive invitation. I was nervous, afraid, etc., but refused. Your note had just given me the strength I needed to be faithful to my deepest self. Thanks.
Last Sunday I celebrated one year of sexual sobriety, due completely to my magnanimous Higher Power and the Program (SA) He has placed in my life. Transformed one-day-at-a-time from a totally hopeless, spiritually anemic person into a hopeful, significant part of His Plan, I am of all people most blessed. Thank you.
Giles and I have formed a group of two and are eager to welcome new members. We have been meeting for about three months.
Greetings from all of us in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. Our group is doing well. Lately we average 8-12 each meeting and slowly growing. For me, personally, it was a door out of hell. After three years in another 12-Step program, I was finally “forced” to learn what surrender really meant! What deliverance.
…I would like to take this opportunity to let you know how we are faring in San Diego county. In the seven months that I have been associated with SA, I have witnessed incredible growth, in our numbers as well as our sobriety. One of our largest meetings (Friday Night Men’s) recently had to change locations to accommodate its growth.
