The Collatz Conjecture asks: Starting with any positive integer n, the sequence n,n/2,3n+1,… eventually reaches 1. The simple problem only queries “ whether repeating two simple arithmetic operations will eventually transform every positive integer into 1.” How hard can that be? This still-unsolved idea was introduced by mathematician Luthar Collatz in 1937, just two years after receiving his doctorate.
We now know the answers to simple math problems. Six plus six is in our wheelhouse. Over the years, we have learned how to solve numerical and behavioral problems. We have answered how to tie our shoes and effectively brush our teeth while properly tucking a fitted sheet and solving the Collatz Conjecture is still on our list.
The “Why did we drink in excess” question still plays repeatedly in our heads, though we pay less attention to it now than we once did. Many professionals have pontificated their angle on our problem, but none could pinpoint it, so they simply prescribed. We resolved that we drank to escape and didn’t know how to stop. We concluded that after the first sip, we were powerless to stop.
Powerlessness – noun - the quality of lacking strength or power; being weak and feeble.
Look, nobody likes to be called feeble, weak, soft, or frail or told they lack adequate strength, and we count ourselves in that group. For this reason, many subscribe to the theory that one has power over alcohol, and maybe some do.
Our problem is that we have demonstrated a total inability to curtail our alcohol intake. Our conundrum is that we have proven to be strong, overcoming trials and traumas in our lifetime that should have caused us to crumble. Our durability, endurance, persistence, and self-preservation are our core characteristics and have served us well. But, the drink is a different problem.
If we are not weak, then what is the problem? Are we stupid? We argue that we have demonstrated a high level of intelligence in our time on earth. We are not the brightest, but we have not struggled to meet and compete at above-average levels. Our intelligence and strength are not in question.
This is where the science argument usually creeps in. Are we different? Does our body process the poisons in a distinct way that separates us from a “normal drinker”? Maybe. We have explored the research but have not cracked the code. Some say we have a disease, a chemical reaction that activates when we ingest. We listen to the science, but we know our souls.
This topic is discussed and dissected daily. To date, nobody has solved the equation—not for the masses or for us. We are okay with not knowing the specifics as long as we hold onto the solution.
The Collatz Conjecture remains unsolved, as does the alcoholic mind. We buy into the facts as they play out in front of us. We choose to admit powerlessness over a foe that we could NEVER conquer. We embrace the choice to avoid the battle by not indulging.
The simple answer is that we do it because we are.
Thoughts and ideas for this blog post were taken and built upon from a sober.coffee bonus podcast #65 titled “PRO SOBRIETY! - AA Alternative(s) Part 2 "LifeRing" The podcast dropped on 6/22/2022. Click here to hear the podcast.
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Alcoholics Anonymous and AA are registered trademarks of Alcoholics World Service. Inc. References to AA, the 12 steps, and 12 traditions does not mean that AA has reviewed or approved the contents of this publication nor that AA agrees with the views expressed herein. This publication is intended to support personal growth and should not be considered a substitute for healthcare professionals' advice. The author’s advice and viewpoints are their own.
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