Even as it seemed all my dreams started to come true with incredible experiences, opportunities, and friendships I felt like I was struggling be "happy". Sadness lingered, depression crept in, and loneliness thrived even in a crowd. When grief struck suddenly and fiercely, the familiar slogans and canned responses that once offered comfort felt hollow. Had it not been for a few close friends, she might have abandoned 12-step programs entirely. I though for a while I was doing something wrong, not enough inventory, or service or meetings. But I wasn't.