If you are a drinker of alcohol and have no control, by that I mean you can’t stop at two or three drinks, for God’s sake quit drinking before it’s too late.Drinking problems are not just for the blue collar man — there are many professionals (doctors, geologists, laboratory technicians, etc.) David Hauge, when you were interviewed the other day by Sioux Falls TV you were too passive on the topic of bars open later. You should have socked it to them. All people think about is making more money regardless of the consequences. I look back 20 or 30 years ago of all the unfortunate victims of drunk driving. One more hour of drinking can make a big difference. I should know, I’m an alcoholic. I drank very heavily for 20 years and regret every one of them. When you drink too much and can’t stop, wake up with the shakes, can’t get out of bed without drinking at least three drinks, you are on the way to a living hell. When drinking too much, you aren’t yourself. You do things you would not ever do sober. I know, that happened to me and many others. Alcoholic husbands are the worst, second to drinking drivers. I can think of many wonderful people just in Rock County who ruined their lives or killed others or themselves — and such young, sweet people. I thank God every day for keeping me alive. I was beat up so badly I ended up losing a breast, losing my self esteem and my children for five years. But God had other plans. Over the years of sobriety I have been able to help others quit, and they are so happy now.I have done some speaking and made people laugh and even changed their life style. I want to share this with everyone. Years ago detectives could scare you to death, threatening to send you to women’s prison for things you didn’t do. I am 70 years old now and it’s about time I shared my heartbreak with you.What really hurts is that some people still put me down. Go ahead, I know I have God in my heart and I have always been there for others when they needed me.I really got my life together when God brought true Christian friends to me — and nondrinkers.It’s never too late to quit drinking. It’s a beautiful world out there. Live life and enjoy it. Take time to smell the roses. And the greatest thing is being able to help others. Have you ever seen anybody who was just killed? You think of that the next time you want to go out and want to party until 2 a.m. You will discover the only true friends are nondrinkers. Pat Gehrke HartLuverne
