Codependence Day

Story Sent in by Chandra:

Thanks to Alcoholics Anonymous, I've been sober for four years. I'm proud of that, but George almost ruined everything.

When I just started AA, I also started dating George. I was completely upfront about my addiction with him. Half-expecting him to run, he instead told me a touching story about how his own father struggled with alcoholism and how his family was supportive and encouraging throughout his rehabilitation. I felt better after he confided that in me.

A date or two later, he asked me out to a bar. I thought that was a curious choice, especially as he knew what I was going through. Still, he said, "It has great food. Trust me."

Once there, he ordered hard alcohol and encouraged me to do the same. "George," I said, "You know I'm trying to go sober."

He laughed and said, "Seriously, what are you drinking?"

I ordered a Sprite. George teased me about it and waved his drink under my nose. "Sure you don't want any?" he asked, "Alcohol is so good."

I finally snapped and said, "What the hell are you trying to do to me?"

George then acted hurt and said, "I was really hoping you'd understand. I don't have an alcoholic father. That whole thing was made up. I just wanted to see if I could get you to drink. Like a personal challenge for myself."

I couldn't believe it. I didn't want to believe it. He said, "It's the only hope that's kept me going these past couple weeks. Just take a sip. It won't kill you. Just one sip. It would make me happier than I've ever been."

He held his drink out to me again. I fought it and I won. I stood up to leave and he said, "Don't go! You'll make a grown man cry if you go. I'll kill myself if you go. Just don't go."

I went. Is he alive? Dead? Who can say?