On this eve of Thanksgiving I have much to be thankful for. For just over 6 years I was an addict; it consumed my mind, my soul and my life. I lost a really good job; almost lost my home and my wife, not to mention my life.

The Lord saw fit to allow me yet another chance- I have been clean for almost two years now. Not only that- but I have a steady job and although it doesn't pay well, I get to genuinely help others and to use the things that were a detriment to my life to now be an asset.

Right now, I have more clarity of thought than I have perhaps ever had. I've been able to go to a good school and graduate with a certificate in addictions counseling. My wife's and my relationship is better and deeper than ever before. On July 3rd past, we have 23 years together. I owe it ALL to Christ and the friends and loved ones that have stuck by me through thick and thin.

As I count my blessings, I include my membership here. I feel like this is a family; like I know many of you personally. I've never met folks so kind, thoughtful and willing to help both in personal life and in my experiences on "boards" relative to shooting and my other passion- guitars.

Thank you all; my wife and I pray for you collectively and for some of you who I know a little better through PMs and correspondence, personally.

I sincerely hope you and your families all have a Thanksgiving full of love and inner peace. I love you guys!

Special thanks to the Mods on these forums- I don't envy your jobs, but am really glad for your sacrifice.

Brian