7 Comments

I am enjoying reading about your personal journey because I also have an addiction to soda. Some of the experiences you are having, I have had also--I didn't have an accident--but when the doctor says your kidney function is not good--it was an eye opener. I have to believe that no matter what the addiction might be, hearing or reading other journeys helps if you want the change. Thank you.

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Beware personal journal masturbation.

W

We are interested in your observation of our common world and events. Self exploration and confession as a condiment, not a banquet. Sorry for my negative reflection, I too struggle with your issues

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Greg, I appreciate your feedback because these are major concerns of mine. That’s why my writing on this topic is not going to show up here on The Grasshopper in the future. I’m starting another Substack for those interested in the story, called The Remarkable. I can’t stand self-indulgence on the part of writers, but the response to telling my story here and on Medium has been very high. The challenge will be not to descend into that indulgence. But as a Buddhist if this can help even one other being, I should probably explore it.

Don’t worry, I have plenty of rants and my thoughts about the world coming! M

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Says something about my taste that I prefer your rants...

I understand your personal struggle my poison is hard cider and it's a problem. I'm slowly pulling my head out of the sand and praying for no accidents as I proceed

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I can't walk without a walker, which I hate, but there's nothing I can do about it. Of necessity, therefore, I spend my days watching a lot of TV, reading a lot of books, and tinkering around online. One thing that annoys me about watching network TV is the never-ending parade of repetitive (ad nauseam) commercials. I get the same feeling when I encounter a repetitive theme in an online essayist's work -- like left-wing politics and pointless bleating about "climate change". It's my pleasure to read points of view that differ from my own, but when I get the impression that a writer is beating the same old drum and avoiding true engagement in meaningful dialogue, I tend to start looking for more conversation and less one-sided opinion.

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Nicely done, Grasshopper. No mention of breaking away from the habitual elements of drinking.

"It's 5 O'clock, I should have a glass of wine in my hand . . . ."

Keep at it.

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One of the odd things about my quitting is that I am not experiencing those habitual desires to drink though I certainly had a routine. I’m very fortunate in that respect. I’m not sure why that it but I’m thankful for it. But I’m also wary of this craving because I do wonder why I’ve dodged it so far. Day to day.

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