From: KNIGHT OWL          
To: JONBOY              
Subject: A.C.O.A.       
Date & Time: 02/25/91 11:00:55
Message Number 12732

Yes, I'm familiar with A.C.O.A.. I attend when I can (work schedule 
chenges from week to week), and it has helped.
 
KO>Coming from a dysfunctional family can be a source of strength.
JB> Coming from a dysfunctional family is a life-crippling event and 
should be treated as such. You may not even aware of all the mental
damage that you have sustained.
 
The reason that I made the statement about strength is because of many 
reasons.
I got my strength from my mother who is very strong emotionally
despite the 17 years of horror that she lived. My sister has also been 
very strong. 
1a) If you have a network of people around you that can help you during 
the bad times, you're very fortunate
2)Despite the gravity of the subject, a sense of humor helps greatly.
 
3)The possibility ALWAYS exists that the alcoholic will get help. I 
left when I was 17, and my father quit 4 years later. I often feel that 
I should have stayed at home.
 
As for the emotional damage, yes I'm aware of it, and I'm seeking help 
for it.
 
SEE YA!
Knight Owl