"May Those Who Come to Scoff Remain to Pray"

[oldstonesandbones]

I have been intrigued by ancient artifacts since I was 5 years old. While digging in my back yard for pyrite crystals I found two intact points ground from slate. Thus began my passion and a pursuit for knowledge of myself through studying archeology that has lasted now for decades and compelled me to travel many thousands of miles.. My passion for acquiring ancient artifacts has cost me relationships and inhibited my growth in other areas. This said, I now realize that as much as I appreciate this forum and enjoy the fine photographs that are posted and the wealth of knowledge that is exchanged the most important function that this board serves for me is to share the power of prayer and faith "in something more and greater than me."
My heartfelt thanks, to "Those of you who have been kind enough to suffer my shortcomings and encourage me to grow as a person parent and most importantly a human being."
Please, pray for me as I continue to abstain from (a mere 19 or 20 days now) smoking drinking etc. in order to become more of the person that my Creator intended me to be.
Thank You.
Regards, V.

[Archaic]

Hang in there Vince, it takes some strength! I've been off the smokes now for 2 years this October after 26 years of over a pack a day... It gets easier with time, keep the faith!!!

[old creek warrior]

i stopped drinking about 5 years ago.Didnt know how i was going to do it ,but as a new christian i knew i had to.Only thru the power of prayer and the holy spirit was i able put it down and every day got easier and easier.Ask God to grant you the power to get thru this day and like archaic said it will get easier with time.Remember James 4:2 We have not because we ask not

[oldstonesandbones]

Thank ya'll, for your kind words. I now have 3 children who are age 3 or younger. It grieves me to think of them growing up believing that I chose alcohol smoking and coffee over them. I'm "hanging in there" but, realize that in order to experience long term sobriety that I must pursue a personal relationship with God. I have begun to pray meditate and read spiritual material but need to pursue fellowship as well.
Congratulations, on being off the smokes for 2 years! What a wonderful accomplishment!!
I had a stroke in '92 and drinking coffee is very bad for my heart. Believe it or not my cravings for caffeine have outlasted my cravings for alcohol and smokajuana.
Regards,
V.

[John Richburg]

The best advice I can give you is read your Bible as much as you can. Strength comes from HIS Word. The second thing is pray often for HIS help and learn to put things in HIS hands. The third thing is get in fellowship with fellow belivers.