How has recovery influenced the person you are today?
I have found and become the person I always was before my disease stole that from me. I live a life of kindness, honesty, and respect that is focused on helping others. I like the person I am today and it is all because of recovery. I choose to work the A.A. program and place my sobriety above everything else in my life because without sobriety, I lose everything.
What’s something meaningful you’ve started doing since getting sober that brings you joy or purpose?
I sponsor other men, share my experience strength and hope with them in passing on the gift of sobriety that has been so freely given to me. More than that, I’ve built so many friendships with people who genuinely care about me. All the things I was afraid to give up to be sober (playing golf, going to concerts and sporting events, cookouts, vacations) I now get to do but I do them with my sober friends.
What goals have you achieved or are working toward because of your recovery?
Repairing, healing, and growing my relationships with my family who I caused so much pain. I’ve regained my career in my chosen field.
Is there a passion or talent you have pursued in recovery?
Not so far but after getting to watch my two youngest kids graduate high school earlier this year and move on to college, I have a couple of new things I plan to pursue.
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.
