The Great Excluder

(Surimi):     Gentlemen, we are pack animals, like wolves. Separated from the pack, the chances of survival diminish. Alcoholism is this disease of separation. The alcoholic needs alcohol to the exclusion of all else. Recovery is largely joining or rejoining the human race.
   Connecting with self, reconnecting with self.　Connecting with others, reconnecting. Overcoming alcoholism, the Great Excluder.    The irony and paradox of Happy Hour can silence even me.

from All Drinking Aside (Rough Draft, Chapter 14)