I believe my poems are self-explanatory, and I have experienced them as real life situations. Raised in and around alcoholism, I chose the irresponsible ways that led me to deviance. I can only blame myself for my misfortunes and tremendous suffering. At the age f eight, I was placed in a juvenile facility for petty theft, for being incorrigible, for missing school, and yes, for drinking. I was released just long enough to drown my sorrows in booze or drugs. I used fictitious ids. I have had 22 drinking violations. My last grade of school was 5th Grade. I was expelled from Kindergarten. My third wife has seen it all and now stands behind me as she sees the spiritual side of me. I have actually experienced my own death at about the age of 26 from an overdose of heroin, secanol, and alcohol. And, at the present time I have hepatitis C. I had many chances and as I look back, I ask Him, "Why me, Lord?" Now, it is my responsibility to share my faith, strength, and gratitude in these few poems with you. It's your decision. We can suffer or we can rejoice.