One of the reasons my last relationship failed was alcoholism. Since then, I have been very cautious about being involved with anyone who has any type of alcohol issue. So when I learned that a very dear old friend, and past boyfriend was suffering from this horrid disease, I vowed to not see him again until he sobers up. That seems simple enough, right?

Only a few weeks ago, I was literally right down the street from his home. I didn't go by. I didn't even call to tell him I was in town. His family has begged for my help as I have a history of being able to get through to him when no one else can. My idea of help is to pass on to him that he will never see me or hear from me again until he sobers up. You have to be tough with addicts.

Now that I'm three thousand miles away, I wonder, am I really just taking the easy way out? Have I turned my back on someone who never would have turned his back on me?