I’ve stayed in touch with three guys that went through the program with me. Joe, Justin & Cole. We attend a 6am meeting every Saturday morning and then get breakfast together after. These guys have been my rock. When I feel like I am becoming stagnant, they push me forward. When Im dealing with family & friends that dont understand where we’ve been or what we’re dealing with, they are there.
I am also blessed with a beautiful wife who has been by my side from the begining of this journey. She's seen me at my lowest and now supports me with my program.
I am currently attending weekly meetings at three different groups. Each group offers something different. These relationships provide accountability and opportunity.
I also see a counselor that has quite a bit of experience with detox facilities, substance abuse and trauma. The work that I’ve been able to do with him has been extremely fruitful. I am actually proactive with my stress and problems now. We’ve explored coping tools and I've deveolped actual emotional intelligence. I don’t just drown my feelings anymore!
How does your community support your recovery?
My sponsor and some of the old timers notice when I dont show up. That accountability is unlike anyting that I’ve experienced. Its not like a parole officer harping at you or an angry employer when you’re late. It’s genuine support, love and respect. They’re there for the good times and the bad. I had a slip a few months after Valley Hope and I was embaressed as can be to walk back into that hall. When I did, I was greeted as family. That support, and specifically that interaction, made the difference for me.
What advice would you give to someone who doesn’t have a recovery community?
Repeat the same actions and you’ll get the same results. Try something new. AA, NA, whatever-A. School. Work. Church. The gym. Clinical counseling. Whatever it is, get involved. Try out half a dozen different meetings. Find a group that you can relate with and add to it. “Out of self-into service.” Build your community. Add some positivity to the world. “Do something nice for someone and dont get caught.”
People would say things like “be in the moment” and “one day at a time” and that never made any sense to me. I can honestly say that I’ve learned how to do those things today.
In the first six months of sobriety I have restored my relationships with my family and friends, fallen in love with my sober partner, thrived in my career and gotten plugged back in with communities I enjoyed before my addiction.
My passion for reading has turned into a wonderful opportunity of reading for a network that helps others. I am now two years into my volunteer work and absolutely love it!
Recovery thrives in community. Whether you’re seeking help, supporting a loved one, or celebrating life in recovery, we’d love to connect with you. Follow our social media channels, attend an event, or simply reach out—we’re here for you 24/7 at (800) 544-5101.
