As It Happened

 

As I stroll down the street, rain drizzling, runs down my collar and inside my shirt.  A chill runs down my spine but it wasn't from the cold. The sun timidly peeks its head from behind the gray clouds above casting a single ray of sunshine on the street ahead. 

I see a piece of paper spinning around inches above the pavement caught in a mini whirlwind then the wind blows it towards me and it presses against my chest. 

It was surprisingly dry considering it had rained on me for what seemed like an eternity, grey clouds following my every move.  My life seemed to be as grey as the clouds lately. Living life under the regime of King Alcohol had gone from sunny skies to a torrent of storms and misery. I knew I couldn't live this way, but I still tried to make it work. 

Taking the piece of paper in my hand after it had flown to my chest I looked down and read the script. In bold letters were the words 'Nothing is so bad that a drink can't make it worse.' The chill came back but it was different this time. I turned over the pamphlet and on the back was a map of the town with a star on that church that was only a block away.  There were times at the bottom of the page that the sun now directly overhead shone on through the break in the clouds above me. 

12.15 Alcoholics Anonymous - Everyone Welcome - Come as you are.

I decided today was the day. I made my way to the church. It's gothic doors loomed in front of me in all their glory, oddly inviting.

I approach them slowly with the sun to my back, its warmth gently pushing me forward.

Russell

Image Belona Greenwood