Do you ever feel like this???

[jchooper12]

...

[engstrom]

First of all, go you. Secondly, great processing...mind sharing how it was done?

[thelegend1472]

Congrats on admitting you have a problem John and that you're aware and willing to make a change. That's usually the hardest step. There's so much out there to be thankful for even the small things that we take for granted day in and day out. Simple things like having something to eat, clothes on our back, a roof over our head, running water, electricity, etc. Sometimes when I'm feeling down I step back and think about the over looked things and the joy I bring to people's lives and it usually makes me pick my chin up. I'm sure you impact many people around you. Maybe in ways you don't even realise. You happen to be a very good photographer as well. So you have plenty of things going on in your life to make you hold your head up high. I'm glad you're seeing that and I wish you the best of luck with your new challenge.

As far as the image goes I think it's very poweful, with no explanation needed. I like the lighting and the what looks like Lucis Art. Nice work.

[stargal01]

what ^^he said. i know too many people that live in denial of their problems and they never get help. looks like you're taking a great first step.

[hmiles619]

[jchooper12]

I really do appreciate the support. I was asked how I did the photo, I used the Dragonize effect, it is a great action. My mom is an Alcoholic (has not drank since the 70's) and I thought it would never happen to me. What a joke!!! It is only to easy to become dependant on beer, wine, etc... I enjoy the feeling, I love not feeling anything about work for the next day, just being able to relax, no worrying about my customers coming to the site at 7:30. Well that is the issue, you drink, and you forget, LIFE.


NO

ALCOHOLISM

[Abel]

John, I agree with the rest of the folks here...

As I read your post it made my hair stand on end because I have a friend that spoke almost those exact words a couple of years ago. He was very down on himself and took to the bottle to try to make things "better". I am very glad to say he made a giant leap and decided to make a change for the better and has been sober for a long while now.

I also get comfort in your post as well because I feel that your post is you yourself also making that first big step into making things better....

Just remember, you don't have to take this on alone... there are always people that are willing to help in anyway they can. Just know that I myself as well as many other members here are always here for you... no matter what.

John, Lisa and I will have you in our thoughts and prayers during this tough time...

Keep your head up my friend... It does get better.... it gets MUCH better!

[jchooper12]

Thank you so much!!!

Thank you again.

[Roy]

Best wishes John! I think it's great that you can see the problem and you have to know there is a way out so life will be better.

I was addicted to cigarettes and quit over two years ago(not quite the same thing but it was a strong addiction). My weight went up and I'm still working on getting it down but at least I'm still around so I can work on it.

I admire you for taking these first steps. And I think it's great that your wanting to do it for yourself. You have my support TPF friend.

[David Whatley]

John, I attend a recovery meetimg every Monday and Thursday, just Norht of the airport. It isnt AA,NA, or SA. It is a recovery for any compulsion. Care to go some time? Drop me a PM.
7 Months Sober :)

[Bobj616]

Been there ,done that ,sober 21 yrs ,still active in AA. If you want to drink thats your business ,if you want to quit we can help. I can tell you from personal expierience that it is tough to try and quit alone.There is a solution if you've had enough. But that is a decision you have to make yourself. The image you posted does bring back memories but I don't really care for the processing. The lighting looks good. Bob

[KJMoore]

Everyone has said pretty much what I have wanted to say. I don't really know you, but if you need help just ask. Even if you just need a pick me up in some way to keep you motivated!!! Like everyone else has said you don't have to pursuit it alone =)

I love the processing on the image by the way!!!.

[jchooper12]

That is why I love this forum, everyone on it genuinely cares for others here, unlike some other forums I get on. I love the fact that people actually get together here and can learn from each other. For the processing of the photo I wanted to just show the most grotesque type of image displaying what alcohol can eventually make you feel like. I look at it and laugh at how crazy it looks but I think it really brings out a feeling and the struggle a person goes through to get a drink in the body. The two hands on the beer almost helping each other to force the drink into my system. I think the photo makes a powerful statement for me anyways and seems to already be motivating me. I feel different after having let this out in the open, it really feels good!!! Someone else mentioned that they went through a smoking addiction; I too smoked for around 10 years and quit cold turkey. It was hard but I had motivation and just told myself I had enough of it, thank god because the prices for those cancer sticks are like 4 to 5 bucks now. Of course I spend a lot more on beer and wine so I look forward to an extra income by quitting drinking, maybe then I can buy a really nice new lens or something really nice for my wife.

Thanks again and if I need help during these times I know who to go to for support, TFP ROCKS!!!

[SaundraU]

John hang in there, my parents were also alcoholics and I have 1 brother who turned to drugs. We are helping him through and we are all here to support and help you.

[Hanky]

I saw a tv show where they paraded these kids through a morgue because of their dwi's.
Dr. showed a college kid's liver that was so far gone he could poke his finger through it like it was a pumkin pie. My liver is slowly dieing and not by my choice. You however do have a choice and a nifty little support group right here. So I ask what's it gonna be?
ps
I quit cigs and I did it simply by choice, you really do not need any of that junk they sale to do it either. You allready have what it takes. Hang tough!