DEAR ABBY: This is for "Paying the Price in Phoenix," the woman who was arrested for DUI:
The reason you were locked in jail like a common criminal is because you WERE a common criminal. It makes no difference whether you are a "professional" or not. Astute officers also arrest doctors, ministers, judges and the like.
Be grateful you lost your license for only 30 days, and you didn't kill anyone! The money you had to pay as a result of your drunken actions is only money. You are alive! Get over your parents being disgusted with you. Would they have their daughter D.O.A. instead of DUI?
The stress you are experiencing will pass, once you get on with the business of living. Mine did. I also called my arresting officers after my hangover cleared to thank them for keeping one more drunk off the streets -- permanently. I learned after two DUIs, and I'm recovering from alcoholism by the grace of God and the 12 steps of AA. -- RECOVERING IN ROME, N.Y.
DEAR RECOVERING: You have written a powerful and sobering letter. Thank you for it -- and continued success in your sobriety.