Is that the sun? I haven't seen it in years,

Last time I was here, I was emptying a needle and grinning, while shouting 'Cheers!'

I walk into the bar, I see the old bartender,

He looks me up and down and asks me if I'm here to finally surrender,

'On the contrary, I'm here to close my tab,' I say, and offer him a grin. 'In the battle against drugs, I'm here to tell you, I win.'

The bartender stares, but then brightens up, 'You're sober now?'

'I am indeed, and I beg you, please ask me how.'

'How did you become sober, give up the needle?' The bartender asks me.

'God heard me, showed me how to break free,' I reply, 'Been sober for a year now, just wanted you to see.'

The bartender looks me up and down, then offers me a happy smile. 'I knew you had the strength within you, it just took you a goddamn while.'

'It sure did and here I am, ready to settle my score,' I say. I fish out my wallet and then look ashamed at the floor.

'How much do I owe?'

The bartender smiles at me again, and shakes his jolly head. 'Your sobriety is payment enough, kiddo. Go home, be happy, that's all I need to know.'

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