Cash and Prizes

Today marks my ninth-month of sobriety. Let's see, 9 x 30 = 270, and there were 5 months with 31, so 270 + 5 = 275 days. Remarkable. But I never set out to get to 275 days. I set out to "control my drinking", somehow get it to only on the weekends or less than twice a week. And so I did.

The reward of this sobriety is not cash and prizes, but the simple fact that I am present. I have been there for my mom as she deals with my dad, and for friends as they suffer losses and learn lessons. Helping them helps me, even though it's as cheesy as a line from a Tom Cruise movie. It's completely true. I find myself giving advice that I need to hear -- life happens, stay strong, remember that you're worth it. In doing so, I am not only being present for them, but for myself as well.

By writing in here, talking to friends and sharing the love in a healthy, happy way, I am constantly reiterating my strength against this disease of self-obsession. More than that, I am creating an idea that I can be trusted, and I can trust; that I am strong and can give strength; and finally, that I know what unconditional love is, and can love others as well as myself. This is worth more than any showcase on the "Price is Right", any suitcase on "Deal or No Deal", any car or money anyone can give me.

Thank you for being a part of this journey, thank you for letting me share, and remember to be true, stay strong. You are valued.