The SURFER Interview: TOM CURREN

SURFER: Was there a period where you were depressed?

TOM CURREN: Um, Yeah, I think so. I think that's definitely true, as crazy as that sounds.

SURFER: I'm sure many people identify.

TOM CURREN: Yeah but, you know, a lot of it is more...I don't know if it's that interesting.

SURFER: Well, during your last trip to Indonesia there was some concern among your peers who love and worship you that you were dealing with a serious drinking problem.

TOM CURREN: Well, to that I can say yes. I guess some people go on those thousand dollar cures with the Indians in the mountains and try to get away from this and that, to deal with it, but for me, it's just, y'know, Jesus is there and he's free, and he's all I need. It's something where I know I'm not the only one to struggle with alcohol, but...I'm doing really well at the moment.

SURFER: How would you say your approach to dealing with it differs from other approaches?

TOM CURREN: Basically, the pastor at the drug and alcohol service that they have down here says, "This isn't the twelve step program it's a one step program." So...

SURFER: That one step is?

TOM CURREN: Just dying to yourself, and ...y'know, cutting off the flesh and basically putting Christ first. His teachings are hard, they get you right where it hurts. Now, as hardcore and clear cut as that sounds, people will either dig that or they don't, they'll relate to it or they don't, that's not really my mission...I'm not bashing people over the head with it.

SURFER: You're just saying this is what's working for you?

TOM CURREN: Yeah, he's lifting up and breaking down strongholds and putting that light on things the way only God can.

SURFER: Al Merrick seems to have been a father figure to you in the past and shares your religious beliefs. Is working with him again bringing some added comfort these days?

TOM CURREN: Yeah, Al is a very godly man, and a good friend...a real friend. So, y'know, aside from all the technical things we've always worked on together, both in the past and now, he's always been a role model.

SURFER: A lot of the guys on tour today have handlers taking care of most of their incidentals and itineraries, watching over them to keep them out of trouble, which is something your generation couldn't afford. Did you pay a price?