ESH: Esther R sober in 1954 speaking in 1970

ESH: Esther R sober in 1954 speaking in 1970

How do people find hope in the darkest times? Esther R's story, shared in 1970 at the Oklahoma State Conference, is a testament to the power of surrender and rebirth. Esther, who hailed from Cleveland, Ohio, takes us on a journey from her struggles with alcohol to finding solace and purpose within the walls of Alcoholics Anonymous.

With 16 years of sobriety under her belt, Esther speaks candidly about her initial resistance to gratitude, fearing it would make her too emotional to share effectively. Her narrative is peppered with humour and honesty as she recounts her early days in AA, where she found acceptance among 'darling old goats' who welcomed her with open arms. Esther's reflections are both poignant and relatable, particularly when she discusses the 'gifts' AA has given her, like time and freedom of choice.

She emphasises the importance of listening beyond the surface, learning from the feelings and experiences of others rather than just their words. Esther's story is not just about abstaining from alcohol; it's about embracing a new way of living, filled with acceptance and self-awareness.

Her candidness about her past, her struggles with identity, and her eventual acceptance of herself as a human being are powerful reminders that recovery is not just about stopping drinking—it's about finding one's place in the world. Esther's journey encourages us to reflect on our own paths and consider how we can live in a way that leaves others better for having known us. Are you ready to embrace the gifts of time and choice in your own life?