- Alcohol
- Drugs
Brian G. is my uncle. He took me to my first recovery-based meeting when I was 16 years old when I was showing signs of having issues with drugs and alcohol. I feel blessed that my uncle introduced me to an environment that would later save my life. All the things that come full circle on this journey are interesting to me.
I would just like to stop and express my utmost gratitude for you Uncle B. Thank you for showing me how it works! You have made such and impact in my life and many others! I love you!!! So grateful to be walking the recovery journey with you!
How long have you been on your recovery journey?
I have been on my recovery journey for 24 years.
What is the biggest positive change in your life since then?
The biggest positive change in my life since my recovery journey began is the spiritual connection I have with the God of my understanding and realizing I don’t have to be perfect and I will make mistakes. What I do have to do Is continue becoming the man God always intended me to be.
What led to your need for recovery (from substance abuse or some other issue)?
The self-destructive path I was on and the inability to stop behaviors I knew were not good for me. This is what led me to recovery.
What was the turning point for you?
My turning point was when no amount of mind altering substance or behavior could numb the pain I felt from the loneliness of being out of control.
What is one important truth you’ve learned through the process?
I have learned to trust the process of self-discovery, in my case, through the 12 steps.
What are you most proud of about your life today?
I am most proud of the fact that I can accept who I am today and allow others to be who they are.
What is one of your biggest struggles in ongoing recovery? How do you overcome that?
A struggle I still have occasionally is the journey from my head to my heart. I tend to overanalyze things and stay in my headway to long. And even though I know something intellectually is better for my self-discovery, really believing it takes time. I overcome this by believing the truths of all those who have gone before me and whose journey I admire.
Are there goals you’ve met or dreams you’ve pursued that you’re particularly proud of?
I’m proud of the fact that I went back to college after a 15-year break. Reentered as a senior and finished a degree in theology. I will be making my fourth pilgrimage to the Holy Land in April of 2015. This, to me, is one of the miracles on my journey.
Is there a truth or piece of advice someone shared with you that has helped you on this road?
Don’t quit before the miracle happens.
What would you tell someone at the beginning of this journey that is afraid they can’t do it?
It is okay to be fearful, but just keep coming back. I have faith you can do it and I will help you. That’s enough to know for now.