Personally , I think prudence Is a much better word........not a fan of the word -selfish.......

Synonyms: prudence, discretion, foresight, forethought, circumspection
These nouns refer to the exercise of good judgment, common sense, and even caution, especially in the conduct of practical matters. Prudence is the most comprehensive: "She had been forced into prudence in her youth, she learned romance as she grew older" (Jane Austen).
Discretion suggests wise self-restraint, as in resisting a rash impulse: "The better part of valor is discretion" (Shakespeare).
Foresight implies the ability to foresee and make provision for what may happen: She had the foresight to make backups of her computer files.
Forethought suggests advance consideration of future eventualities: The empty refrigerator indicated a lack of forethought.
Circumspection implies discretion, as out of concern for moral or social repercussions: "The necessity of the times, more than ever, calls for our utmost circumspection" (Samuel Adams).
Ha!!!!!!
Billy

you can't give away what you don't have. there are times-even with a bit of recovery time and working the steps-i don't have it to give. just allowing people to know you are sober, you struggled, you are are getting thru the day sober just for the day is more than enough. you are miracle. others will find out soon enough. devon

Interesting CD. I just don't feel like I have anything much to offer at the moment. I'll admit pride is also involved. I hate coming on here on top of the world one day and begging for help the next. I also hate the thought of presenting strength to those in need and risking them witnessing me possibly fall flat on my face. It's hard to say to someone "you can do it" and then wonder to myself whether I will make it through the night. Feels almost dishonest.

I've also had enough of my own arrogance and humor at others' expense. When I talk these days, I just can't seem to control what comes out of my mouth. I'm not sure being quiet and listening is such a bad thing.

Hey, give yourself some slack. Being on an emotional rollercoaster is pretty common in early sobriety. You should have seen me. Actually, I think you're doing great for what it's worth.

There is nothing wrong with listening, taking notes, and learning your path.

I'm doing the same thing.

You are not alone.

Hey babe, remember when we first met and I was in the same place?
You'll get through this and will start to feel better. You would hook up with me on chat and I just didn't have much to give at the time and I felt so guilty and felt I was letting you down. Thing is we all need our moments to regroup. Take all the time you need settle your emotions and your thoughts. Sobriety is hard work and you've been doing great but we all know it can wear us out. Just think about today. Be selfish and take care of you right now. You are so good about being there for us. Let us be there for you. Breath... Good air in..... Bad air out...

At 51 days work on yourself. There will a lot of time in the future for helping others.

Be good to yourself.

Exactly what everyone else said Olive...it is not selfish. You need to work on you so that you can help others later.

And yep...keep believing that it will get better girley..it does and it will! :)

I also understand the need to sort of back off and think. My sobriety is so new that I am going one hour at a time on some days.

What a truly beautiful and heartfelt post Anna...recognizing that you need time to grow and get healthy is a good thing. Posting when you were drunk was difficult on you and not always good for others. It takes a big dose of emotional growth to recognize and deal with that issue. I AM SO PROUD of YOU!!!!!!!!!

The Anna, when not drinking is brilliant, funny, loving, and thoughful. I know her well...you are awesome sweetie!

And I can't also say a few good words to Ramblingman...good for you too. It was a breath of fresh air to read your reply to Anna. Am happy for you too.

Sometimes, less is more...and a timeout is good for all of us sometimes.
Alice