It took me 19 years to get 30 days clean…I started using at 13 years old, smoking reefer, and drinking beers, by the time I was 23 years old. I thought I might have a problem, but it was nothing I couldn’t get under control on my own…In 1984 I was forced to attend NA meetings as an alternative to serving five years in prison. I came to the meeting late and left early; I sat close to the door and didn’t take any suggestions…By 1987 was smoking crack…I would make six appearances in 19 years before I could get 30 days, but in 2003 on my 7th appearance, after serving 11 years of my life in and out of prison, I became willing to do what worked for others… Through the years, I saw familiar faces remain clean…I wanted what they had; this time around, I came early and stayed late, I got a sponsor, wrote on steps, took service commitments, and today I celebrate 19 years clean and serene…TFLMS