I was without a drink for three months when I walked into the Ed Keating Center. The only reason I went there was because I had nowhere else to go. I thought I had something on everyone there. But I was welcomed with good cheer and included in friendly conversation. Soon I realized I had a new, safe place that I called home.

I was there less than a week when I had what I think was a spiritual awakening. I had a sense of peace and a feeling of happiness for the first time since I was a child. I will never forget that morning. I now felt that I would stick with this chance that seemed to be working for others and hopefully not return to my horrid past. The Keating Center was teaching me about alcoholism and telling me that I could become a better, more useful human being. It turns out that the education that I received has helped me stay sober for nearly eight years as I write these words.

“I was there less than a week when I had what I think was a spiritual awakening. I had a sense of peace and a feeling of happiness for the first time since I was a child.”

There were times while I was at the Center when I got tired of hearing the same thing over and over again from the volunteer group leaders. Today, however, I cannot count the ways what I learned there has benefitted me throughout my sobriety. I know now that God put me there in The Rock to be part of a lifesaving fellowship, to go to the required AA meeting per day, to have the one-on-ones with Phyllis, to hear the experience, strength and hope from Mr. Kiley and hundreds of other speakers.

There are numerous other reasons and ways the Keating Center has changed my life as both a resident there and afterwards. It was certainly more than just a roof over my head. It was an adventure into my new-found sober living. I am eternally grateful.