Well said, Itsjustmeagain. For me, inner child therapy helped me get to where I could then use Louise Hay's 10 steps to loving yourself. I still have to work at not being self-critical, but it is freeing to finally befriend myself. No longer battling an insecure, out-of-control child I was while gambling. That child shows up occasionally now but I find if I take care of the things she really needs, (physical health. healthy food, shelter, safety, plenty of sleep, a social life, spiritual life, leisure, nature, exercise, and creative outlet) she won't demand the car keys.

Thanks for your post, itsjustmeagain. These are good reminders for us all. So glad for your 90 days and that you've found such a supportive community.

thanks all

90 DAYS, congratulations itsjustmeagain!
I loved reading your post, it reads like it came straight from your heart.
Yet. I haven’t placed a bet, yet, Today I will not gamble. I’m an addict who understands how easily one bet can lead to insanity, therefore I cannot become complacent, I must stay humble and continue to listen to my heart. Recovery is a brightness in what use to be a dark life, I’m so grateful to be here with all of you.
Again, a lovely post, thanks.

thanks Robin...it's been a long journey, tonite i get my pin/key..

Congratulations itsjustmeagain on your 90+ days and thank you for your post. Sometimes you wake up needing 'something' to keep you going (but you don't know what), to validate that what you're doing (not gambling) is the right thing, and your words were just what I needed. I am on my second serious go-around at abstinence (30+ days) and feeling great and grateful about so many things. Thanks and well wishes go out to all of you. You are all awesome!

thank you penny :)

I LOVVVVEEE Ga conferences. To meet new members, hear new stories and concepts.
In the DC metro area we have a wonderful annual conference that runs over a weekend and is always a REBOOT to my recovery.

The YET message is vivid and important. It allows me to relate to stories beyond my own experience, maybe jail, prosecution, losing family so many events that are not that far away in gambling addiction. I have more empathy when I remember the just not yet for me.

Thanks for reminding me. Best to you today

Congratulations on 90 days! The days and weeks will pass soon enough!!

I would like to attend an event like this. Where do you find out about this? I’m assuming just your local GA program put it on. Loving myself again is one of the hardest parts about the whole recovery process. Thank you for this post...def brightened my outlook.

yes, they paid for me to go, thats there wish for all to succeed and pay it forward...go to GA and learn ...today is 4 months for me

Congratulations on your 4 month birthday. Your birthday of recovery, learning a better way of life without gambling.
Thanks for being here.