I wish to add my own expression of gratitude to the many that have been published in the Christian Science periodicals.

Mary Baker Eddy, the Discoverer of Christian Science, wrote that intemperance “hides itself under the false pretense of human need, innocent enjoyment, and a medical prescription” (Miscellaneous Writings 1883–1896, p. 210). This is precisely how I rationalized my alcohol consumption. 

Although I never completely abandoned the study of Christian Science, in graduate school I lost my way with regard to alcohol and started drinking socially, for enjoyment. Subsequently, alcohol became a “medical prescription” for all sorts of problems. A glass—or two, or more—was a remedy for stress at the end of a busy day, for a headache, for an unsettled stomach. Eventually, I became dependent upon larger and larger “doses” and was unable to break away. Every attempt to stop consuming alcohol only heightened cravings I felt I could not resist.