9 Months

[WilliamG]

Today is my 9 month sobriety birthday! It hasn’t been easy, but it’s worth it. I’ve grown a lot during this time, and I do feel better. How did I do it? I knew I couldn’t do it alone, so I shopped around and attended online meetings to find ones that I liked. At first I tried Refuge Recovery and then Dual Diagnosis Anonymous, and finally I settled on AA, and it’s been good for me. I have a sponsor, a higher power, I’m working the steps (on step 8 right now), I go to meetings, and I’m even being of service in my own little ways. I have extreme social phobia (among other things), so I’m not the most outgoing person: I find it very hard to share at meetings or to socialize with anyone other than my sponsor, but it’s “progress not perfection.” As long as I stay sober and try to do the best that I can, I consider my day a success. It’s not easy though: I’ve had to look at some ugliness from my past; I’ve had to endure the ups and downs of my mental illness without relying on alcohol or other substances; I’ve had to address some core issues concerning my selfishness, my fears, my traumas, and things I’m not proud of. I’ve also had to come to terms with so many wasted years that I hardly remember. And there’s a lot of wreckage from my past too, but I’m learning how to address it and how to “not regret the past.” During this time, not only have I stayed sober, but I’ve actually lost 15 lbs, my liver is back to normal, my chronic stomach issues have resolved, and my cholesterol levels are normal. My doctor is amazed at the improvement. People also say they can see a difference in my personality and the way I look, and I’m starting to feel a difference too. I’m also very aware that I’m no longer actively hurting myself or other people, and that’s a true miracle. There are many other gifts, too. Anyhow, I thought I’d share where I’m at at 9 months, and I wanted to thank everyone here for being an important part of my journey. 😀

[Jampacked]

How amazing to read. I am so glad you have your health back, well done