AWOL From Society: Unchained: Finding Freedom in The Concrete Jungle

By Keith Anderson

AWOL FROM SOCIETY is a gripping and transformative memoir that takes readers on a captivating journey through the darkest depths of addiction and self-destruction to a remarkable story of redemption. Join Keith as he navigates the treacherous streets, confronts the harsh realities of prison life, and faces the unforgiving challenges of the milit

• Language: English
• Publisher: Barber-Heed Enterprises, LLC
• Release date: Jul 8, 2023
• ISBN: 9798218957186

Book preview

Chapter 1:

The Beginning

Sitting back, listening to Teddy Pendergrass’ Love TKO song, the lyrics resonated deeply within me. The line, Looking back over the years, I just shaded some tears, struck a chord. For many years, I struggled to shed tears on the outside, but internally, I carried a heavy weight of unexpressed emotions. It became clear to me that crying had the power to open my heart, to release the pent-up emotions that had long been suppressed.

Reflecting on my early years, I grew up in a household with my mother, two brothers, one sister, and my stepfather. I cherished the love and support of my stepfather, but a lingering question haunted me—where was my biological father? While I was grateful for the presence of my stepfather, I yearned to know what my biological father was like and what life would have been like if he had been there. The void in my heart, the longing to meet and know him, remained ever-present.

Life seemed promising as I had only a couple more years left of high school before venturing out into the world on my own terms. School was never my passion, and I knew college wasn’t in the cards for me. Instead, I made the decision to join the Army, seeking a different path to explore life.

Upon entering the Army, I quickly learned that camaraderie among soldiers often involved drinking and partying. While I was still 18 years old, serving in the Army, my high school sweetheart was still attending school. Our time together became limited, but I held onto the assurance that she was still mine, even from a distance. The routine of Army life, the structure it provided, seemed to bring a sense of stability. Waking up each day, attending formation, and fulfilling my duties, which included driving tanks, gave my life a purpose.

However, as time went on, I found myself indulging in alcohol more often. What had started as social drinking with fellow soldiers soon escalated into a habit that consumed me. I reached a point where I experienced tremors and shakes, especially in the mornings. It was during one of these episodes, while trembling in the mess hall, that I realized something was seriously wrong. Seeking answers, I visited the doctor, who informed me that I was experiencing withdrawal symptoms, commonly known as DT’s, due to excessive drinking.

The revelation of my alcohol dependence shook me to the core. I had unknowingly allowed drinking to take control of my life, masking the pain and suppressing my emotions. The Army, with its camaraderie and structure, had inadvertently facilitated my spiral into self-destructive behavior. It became clear that I needed to confront my unhealthy relationship with alcohol and address the deeper issues that lay beneath the surface.

Leaving the doctor’s office that day, I made a silent vow to myself. I would break free from the grips of alcohol, reclaim my life, and find healthier ways to cope with the emotions I had long suppressed. The journey ahead was daunting, but I was determined to confront my demons, seek healing, and rediscover the path towards a more fulfilling existence.

As I embarked on my journey of self-discovery and healing, I knew it wouldn’t be easy. It required confronting the pain I had buried deep within, understanding the reasons behind my reliance on alcohol, and finding healthier outlets for my emotions. It was time to explore alternative coping mechanisms, seek support from others who had walked a similar path, and commit to a journey of self-improvement.

Little did I know that this pivotal moment would mark the beginning of a profound transformation. It was not only a journey to overcome addiction but also an exploration of my true self, my desires, and the possibilities that lay beyond the confines of my past. With determination and a newfound sense of purpose, I embraced the challenges ahead, ready to break free from the grips of alcohol and society’s expectations, in pursuit of a life that truly belonged to me.

Chapter 2:

Descending into Chaos

As I attempted to cut down on my drinking, an unexpected twist entered my life. I was introduced to cocaine, and it took me to a whole new level. The exhilaration, the altered mindset—it consumed me entirely. My attitude changed, and I no longer listened to my commanding officers. There were only three things on my mind: cocaine, sex, and government checks. I was no longer the disciplined soldier I once was. Frustrated by the denial of my leave requests, I decided to take matters into my own hands.

Reflecting on my struggles growing up without my biological father and enduring the storms of life, I blamed him for all my troubles, for failing to be present and provide me with guidance. This resentment fueled my rebellious spirit. In defiance of the commanders denial, I took leave without approval and headed to the airport. However, Uncle Sugar, as the Army is often called, was not willing to let me go so easily. Eventually, they reached their limit and decided I was no longer fit to serve. I was kicked out of