Jon E - Netherlands - Service - Afro-Euro - Meeting 433

John E, a recovering alcoholic from the Netherlands, shares his powerful journey from a life of chaos, criminality, and addiction to one of responsibility, service, and deep recovery through the 12-step program. He recounts a childhood marked by fear, anxiety, and behavioral extremes, which led him to alcohol at age 13 as a coping mechanism. Over decades, he built a destructive life as a criminal and father, ultimately losing his family, career, and health before hitting rock bottom in 2020. His turning point came after a hospitalization and a delirium tremens episode, which led to surrender and entry into a 12-step treatment center. He describes how service—starting with simply opening and closing meeting doors—became the foundation of his recovery, teaching him accountability and reliability. Today, he serves in multiple roles, including H&I (Hospitals and Institutions), organizes international conventions, and mentors others. His life has transformed: he’s rebuilt relationships with his children, supported his dying parents with dignity, and now works as a forensic coach and is launching a safe house for addicts. John emphasizes that recovery isn’t just about sobriety—it’s about living with integrity, doing daily spiritual work, and practicing the 12 steps in every aspect of life, not just in meetings.