Journey of Sobriety: Reflections and Transformations

Father Joe Reilly helped him release his burdens and find a path to sobriety.

### Journey of Sobriety: From Chaos to Clarity
* 🍷 Reflecting on a long journey of sobriety, the narrator recalls the **chaos and insanity** of their past, filled with **alcoholism and turmoil** for over **35 years**.
* 😩 Initially resentful of AA meetings and the associated "**God stuff**," they struggled with the concept of "**surrendering and letting go**."
* 👴 A significant turning point came when they met **Father Joe Reilly**, a Jesuit priest, who confronted them at a meeting, recognizing their **inner turmoil and distrust**.
* 🙏 In a moment of desperation, the narrator sought a quick and powerful prayer from Father Reilly, who introduced them to the **"prayer of release,"** which alleviated their burdens.
* 🔍 Before Father Reilly's passing, he advised that **understanding and clarity would come in due time**, acknowledging the narrator's **stubbornness**.
* ✈ Recently, during a journey, the narrator encountered a young girl named Lara, who left a note expressing **spontaneity and a desire to connect**, reminding them of the **fleeting nature of life**.
* 💔 The narrator reflects on their estranged daughter, contemplating the choices made and the **importance of moving forward**, regardless of the past.
* 🌌 In closing, they acknowledge the **mysteries of life and the journey of healing**, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to **share their story**.

Anthony Hopkins - fastest most powerful prayer in the world

Niels Dolieslager

Spent 35-36 years sober after a period of heavy drinking and insanity.

Initially disliked AA meetings and the religious aspects.

Despite being a 'winner' in life, he was constantly fighting.

Father Joe Reilly, a Jesuit priest, prevented him from leaving an AA meeting.

Father Reilly observed that the speaker was untrustworthy.

The speaker sought quick answers and considered Father Reilly to have them.

Father Reilly introduced the 'prayer of release,' which relieved the speaker's burden.

Before his death, Father Reilly advised that understanding would come when the speaker was ready.

Recent encounter and reflection on family

Met a young woman, Lara, from Brazil, during a snowstorm in Denver.

Lara left a note indicating a chance encounter and the idea of living life to the fullest.

The speaker reflects on his daughter's potential choices regarding contact.

He accepts the possibility of his daughter's death and the need to move on.