I put up a post yesterday about being clean & sober. The responses were teriffic, and I got several PM's. One gentleman PM'd me from what seems to be half-way around the world. That post and your responses prompted him to write, "You get encouragement from the strangest places". He went on to tell me that he had just about completed his very first day of sobriety. This gentleman just went through one of the hardest things he's ever going to do, and all of you helped him through it. He sent another PM today to say thank you. When it comes time, and someone asks him, "Who's your sponsor?, do you think he's going to say, "TER, of course".

I also assisted a different gentleman to put one person in touch with another who may have more in common with the first.

This all came from a post and the replies right here on this board. I was extremely touched by some of the messages that I received. I repeat. This place amazes me.

Thank you all.

some of the kindest folks I know are the providers and genuine hobbiests who participate in the TER discussions.  Several men and women I have met in person have not just lived up to my expectation but in every sense exceeded what I thought I would encounter.

The past couple of years have seen me with several sadnesses... and the good gents and ladies of TER have always offered the most sincerest of comfort...

Some of the most interesting discussions on the political scene and its impact on daily life occur on the P&R board, and those too are a delight!

Glad to hear that someone else thinks the same...

I think it is because those of us who are here are simply trying to enjoy and appreciate life every day. We don't take life too seriously, we don't care what society says or how they say we should live. We go our own way and do our own things, but we appreciate people and relationships. Sometimes I think all of us who are somewhat regular around here, somehow just keep life simple and take enough time to enjoy it.

Maybe that's just me, but that's what I have picked up from all of you here. And it is nice to be a part of it.

I seem to have problems with getting into trouble and getting moderated on the Atlanta Baord, but some really great people, like GaGambler, have taken the time out of their busy schedules to send me PM's with a lot of very wise suggestions about how to "fit in", and I really appreciate it.

I love TER!

GT

Look around! it is a room full of lovers. and under the aliases we are all necked.

I was wondering how any of your sponsors view this hobby as it relates to recovery. I have enjoyed 6 years sober. And as my libido has increased as a result of being sober. I know this question could lead to a lot of misperceptions of what I am driving at, but most sponsors would be cautioning against creating more "damage", and some view the ladies in the hobby as being exploited, thereby creating more damage in others lives. And alot of times the act of hobbying itself would lead to guilt etc. I am not one of those people mind you, but I am wondering if someone in true recovery can be a hobbyist.

I have done my due dilligence regarding the morality of this hobby and can face it with no doubts about it acceptablility to me.


Then again, others may not be so sure.  If this hobby makes situations in your life that sap the strength and energy you need to meet committments and similar needs, then you shouldn't be here.

On the other hand, I find this hobby very life affirming.

As to the damage of the gals who work the other end, I'll let them expound, but I don't see a problem.

thanks for the reply. I appreciate the candor.
I guess I am operating from the academic side of this question. Most recovering individuals tend to be cross-addicted, or have utilize other mood-altering vehicles to incorrectly cope with lifes stressors.  
Sex, and the endorphin release, assoicated with the act or with the planning of  the event is often just as strong whiskey,,insert your choice here. My feeling is that there is a percentage of individuals that have the ability to square this in their own heads, morally as you say, or otherwise and be fine. However I would gather there are very few that can do this and succeed in a program of recovery. At least if they are honestly assessing themselves..lol..Got me thinking though. Thanks again.