at twenty-one my life took a spirit-filled turn,
the spirit i chose had a distilled burn.
at twenty-one i slapped down my ID and ordered a drink,
my mind went away and I was unable to think.
at twenty-one was a beginning anew,
just like jumping from a bridge begins a fall into blue.
at twenty-one i laughed with friends.
painful mondays alone without end.
all friends have gone away…
twenty-one years ago the calamity ended.
i began a new life drink-less dry, sobriety contended.
it opened a door to see the true Light,
one that did not interrupt a passed-out night.
it took several years to know this great One,
clarity ensued but i still had to run.
We all know who wins in the end,
it is Jesus who soon enough became my friend,
He sustains me day-by-day…
now life is changed my vision grows stronger.
darkness so short, daylight much longer.
without God where would I be?
no wife, no children, no family.
today is special as milestones are here,
twenty-one years sober and a loving daughter’s birthday to cheer.
tears and pain have lost their sting,
at twenty-one i thank the Lord for now i sing.
happy birthday, Phoebe.
happy monday, to me…
r stassi
first sober day november 26 1991