The issue is not just about the effects of alcohol once we ingest it into our system, that part is clear. The issue is also about real life 'powerlessness' and how it affects everything, including alcohol consumption.

There seems to be an overwhelming consensus when it comes to the physical aspect of alcoholism, and the inability to control consumption once alcohol has been introduced into the body -that part will never change. 'Powerlessness', however, as it relates to sobriety or not picking up that first drink, is where the lines are drawn in this debate. I respect that for many it is a difficult or unacceptable premise-- it defies logic and introduces an almost mystical or magical force into an otherwise neat and understandable equation. The concept that an inanimate substance swirling around in a bottle holds sway over my mind while outside my body requires some suspension of logic.

And this is why it's so critical for me to understand. I don't crave alcohol, per se, I crave the relief it provides. I'm powerless over my need to feel a certain way-- high, relieved, floating, or at the very least, at peace. So in a sober state, I'm at the mercy and distress of untreated alcoholism. My mind and body, and my sick spirit, have been conditioned to seek the short-term medicinal effect of alcohol, despite the knowledge of longer-term consequences. Because the longer-term consequences can always be offset by short-term relief. It's the criminally insane version of pay-it-forward.

So from my perspective, the concept of Powerlessness is just that: a concept. Conceptualizing the experience of addiction as 'powerlessness' is a philosophical approach that helps some people to understand that they cannot drink safely. 

This is why an 'accurate' assessment of my sobriety is so important. It effects just about everything including 'my thinking'. Ideally, I'm doing very little thinking. I'm in the moment, my soul and mind are aligned with my spirit. I'm present. I'm of service to others. I'm in the sunlight of the spirit that's relieved me of my insanity.

However, this philosophical approach should not be confused with the unequivocal, empirical "truth". It is simply a way of looking at things that helps some people and not others. There are many people--and I am one of them--who find the concept of 'powerlessness' helpful, even though it can be unhelpful to others -and even damaging, when others -with control over the person- insist that this conceptualization is the only possible way to view things.

So from my perspective, powerlessness over alcohol before the first drink, and not just the physical aspect of alcoholism, is also very important. I think we all agree, that powerlessness over alcohol once we are under the influence is rather convincing. I hope others do as well. Onward.