What follows are the intimate revelations made by alcoholics and drug addicts, who are currently 'in recovery', as defined by themselves, from decades of cognitive use and abuse of, licit and illicit, substances. The individuals were from every socio economic, educational, professional, and racial background. Most of the individuals who opened the doors into their lives and worlds met the author during his tenure in departments of New York City Social Services, and in particular, at the Administration for Children's Services. It was a journey.