I drank in places where I fit in. I was a hustler, a full blown alcoholic, and an occasional brawler; I didnt stand out because we all were pretty much the same in the joints I chose.

I was pretty sure I would not live long, as I was always walking on the edge. I thought I was destined for either prison or early death. I met guys from the twelve-step program while in the county jail. They came in to do meetings. They talked to me once in a while, but I was not interested. I always felt a kinship with these guys, but I wasnt ready.