I live in a hurricane-friendly area of the USA and have just been blessed with another bad storm, which I got through abstinently. We had a very difficult time several years ago with no refrigeration, very hot temperatures, and no ice available for almost two weeks, 

We coped in creative ways. My next-door neighbor used an extra-long extension cord to get electricity from a portable generator from the neighbor behind her so that her refrigerator worked. I used a shelf in her refrigerator for my food.  We had an outside charcoal grill and also used things like canned meats, fruits, veggies, and dry cereal. I know that these foods, in addition to a manual can opener, are essential to always keep on hand.  

Thank God my husband saw how terribly difficult the experience was for this food addict. After that, we decided that a permanent generator would be the answer so I would never have to go through that again. We also proceeded to replace our decades-old windows with hurricane-proof ones that can withstand 150 mph winds and debris of that weight.

With God on our side and lots of prayers from family and FA fellowship, my husband and I, along with my daughter, her friend, my preteen grandchildren, a 75-pound (34 kilos) dog and two very frightened guinea pigs, we were spared in many ways. The best part of this experience was the love and outpouring from family (some of whom I hadn’t heard from for years), FA fellows, neighbors, non-FA friends, etc.  I felt so cared for, cared about, loved and protected.  I feel I live a charmed life to have so much goodness and caring in my life.

Twenty-four years ago I hated myself and my looks—256 pounds (126 kilos). I hated my family, my job, my life! I couldn’t love myself, so I couldn’t appreciate or love anyone around me. I felt dirty and smelly all the time because of how big I was. I perspired excessively in warm weather.  I blamed everyone for things that went wrong in my life, so I didn’t have to look into making self-changes. I never dreamed that this all could be different.

During these stressful storms, it never occurred to me to eat. I had a major relapse 14 years ago with a year of nonstop eating, tremendous weight gain, and the misery of being in the food. I begged God, day after day, to get me out it. Pain is a great motivator. I was in so very much pain that I never wanted to revert back to those days of eating. Now I can share my experience with others.

Today I have many things a 77-year-old person can get, including cancer, recuperating from a bad fall last year, a few surgeries, and other old-lady problems. I became a widow six years ago, but this abstinence, recovery, and fellowship are the gifts God has bestowed upon me. I never thought I deserved such a life. My literature, my sponsor, my fellowship, and my God tell me that I do deserve it. Today I am convinced.