In my case I understood this when I read a psychology book of my ex wife (she is a counselor).
It’s called (in french) The family of the addict.
As i was turning the pages, everything became clear. It pissed me off to be like a victim of circumstances (feeling a lack of love, violence and all), and made me want to get out of my toxic addictions asap. Something like NO, you won’t get me, NO I’m stronger than this.
1 Like
I think for me as an atheist at times sobriety feels harder so any ideas and techniques v much appreciated
1 Like
You are one of the funniest people that I have met here @AyBee you fucking kill me!!! 
LOVE THIS!!! 
2 Likes
I have to admit I am extremely glad to see this type of post up and running smoothly 
5 years ago when I got sober it would have never been able to stay on here.
7 Likes
That’s such great news! Good on ya!
2 Likes
For me actually sobriety seems more simple as a non-believer. I don’t have to surrender myself to some obscure invisible outside force. No “higher power” needed for me. I believe in myself and my fellow men. In humanity. We do it together.
If I learned one thing in becoming and remaining sober it is that I need my fellow men. My brothers and sisters. We do it together. As humans. No hocus pocus, no mambo jambo. We do it ourselves while helping each other and getting support form one another. It’s simple. Just don’t go it alone.
12 Likes
I have to agree with @Mno . For me personally, I feel it’s easier to be atheist and be sober. And having a community of people who share the same views really is just so great. I believe everyone has their people and I’m so glad you all are mine 
7 Likes
Same same! I don’t have to smoosh myself into a mold that doesn’t fit to find people who can relate to the struggle. I did find that I had to trust people more and put myself out there when I wasn’t completely comfortable, though. I’m talking about when I first joined this site and I was lurking about, reading others’ stories but not engaging. When I finally decided to engage was when my healing really started and I wasn’t alone anymore. Going on a couple years now! And I’ve made some friends that I can really rely on. It made all the difference. But I had to trust. Got burned a couple times. It all feels like life lessons. I’m so very grateful.
8 Likes
Thanks man ! We’re all in this together, without any god 
3 Likes
If there is one constant I have learned over the years, it is that change is a constant. This holds true for humans (we are all certainly good representations of change!) and for the forum. There have been many changes here for sure.
6 Likes
Started out rough indeed! Glad y’all have a spot dedicated to your viewpoint!
3 Likes
Grateful for you and your perspective, chica!
1 Like
Really? Wow… there’s some drama I don’t even know about.
I’m from a country full of atheists, where you are not allowed to wear ostentatious religious signs in public spaces, it’s the twilight zone for me to see how it is elsewhere.
5 Likes
Wow where are you from Pat?
Ehh, I didnt do much. I just figure everyone should have their place just like everyone else. Those who shun another persons perspective are the truly ignorant. Reading this thread had made me think, and that is how one grows
3 Likes
The division between state and church is very strict where @Pat_m lives, then again the state itself is very powerful, which won’t be to the liking of most Americans…
3 Likes
I’m from France 
3 Likes