Forty-five years an alcoholic, I was at a crossroads. I was soon to lose my marriage, lose my career and quite possibly my freedom. So I made a choice, I enrolled in a 90-day addiction recovery program. After eight days in detox, I was released into the general population. Alone in a strange land, something wonderful happened. My mind began filling with poetry. Nine days sober and I'm a poet? It's crazy! But it didn't stop. I wrote, and I wrote, and I surrendered to my program. I let my rehabilitation happen and I chronicled the entire journey. This collection is the result. Poems and prose that speak to every thought, emotion and concern one must face in the quest to get help. This unusual form of journaling got me through and I truly believe it will help others in their journey. Parents, friends and relatives of those bravely trying to find their way, will benefit. These writings will help with the feelings one can expect to experience in recovery. Some are funny, some are dark and cautionary but they are all real. It is my hope that you can learn from these Writes and be inspired to create your own unique writing style. Make your own mark. I wish you well on this most important endeavor. Surrender and let yourself be helped. Gary L. Redmiles.