12 Comments

So, so scary. I used to make fun of NA beers but I drink them at unfamiliar bars for the exact reason you describe here.

As your punk rock doctor I prescribe no listening to FEAR, Gang Green or Murphys Law drinking anthems for a month.

Super glad you didn't let that nightmare derail you.

Expand full comment
Aug 18, 2022Liked by Jim Ruland

I am always terribly behind on reading these because I want the space to genuinely take them in, not just make a quick cursory read. Usually, I feel reluctant to comment because of the amount of time that has lapsed from when the post was made. This one made me want to despite all of that. Thanks so much for sharing. I have not dealt with substance issues but do deal with my own hang ups that hold me back and it was great to read your account of reminding yourself of where you were and what is important.

Expand full comment
Aug 15, 2022Liked by Jim Ruland

It seems trite to say but, Thanks for sharing. I’ve been sober a long time. The path of sobriety narrows when you know who you are and how important “one day at a time” truly is. Thanks for all you do.

Expand full comment
Aug 11, 2022Liked by Jim Ruland

Great story Jim 🖤. I’ve been sober for 1 year 9 weeks, I’m happy with my life now and like you said -problems won’t go away because you quit drinking- definitely not, life becomes very challenging but you have to think about why you took that decision and keep moving forward, I still think that beer taste delicious and whiskey was the best after a long day at work, then I remember how everything took control of me and how miserable my days were the next morning. I started drinking at a very young age and I don’t think I ever learned how to do it, it becomes part of your daily life, your circle of friends, family , concerts and more, I found it difficult at the beginning to go to a show without having a couple of beers before or while I was in there, family reunions like thanks giving, Christmas or New Years even Birthday parties! . Reality is what really matters cause at the end of the day you wake up to sobriety and being under the influence of any drug or alcohol is like wearing a mask to not see what’s really happening. Being sober made me a better version of myself, I get to do all the things I like to do and there’s -no hangover or no oops what happened- the next day and I’m happy about that. 🥛

Expand full comment
Aug 10, 2022Liked by Jim Ruland

Great story, Jim, and bless you for being a peerless example of strength and acceptance.

I saw FEAR at the Starwood (opening for X) and I was lucky enough to meet Lee Ving and Derf scratch when John Belushi was impish enough (or defiant enough) to bring them to the Playboy Mansion following their appearance on SNL. I was working as a butler there at the time, and the butler's pantry was the preferred hideout for girls and guests who didn't feel like hanging out with Hef and his Hollywood cronies. Lee and Derf (and Belushi and Aykroyd) were very cool and friendly. We had a great time hanging out, shooting the shit about comedy and girls and pounding shots of Crown Royal.

Expand full comment

Congrats on your sobriety Jim.

Expand full comment