I’m choosing to be away from family and friends for the holidays this year. It feels so right but sounds so wrong.. I’m not sure what they think about it besides me being selfish and what not.. but I know I want to just be alone and enjoy myself, by myself. Is this a bad thing ?? I just want to center myself, not necessarily seclude myself from them . I still love them but don’t want to be around anyone right now.
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I feel exactly the same way. This year is a very blue Christmas. I too had to bypass a family party last weekend because of the alcohol and also because I am not going to see my daughter Christmas so honestly I don’t see the need to celebrate. No tree or decorations are up. I cry at the drop of a hat. Just a very different/difficult year for me.
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Nothing wrong with taking care of yourself. You deserve it
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I’m sorry about that): I hope you realize that people still love you! If you need someone to talk to you can always message me!
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My thoughts exactly!
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I think this sounds like a wonderful 
. I hope this time brings you meaning and a time to self reflect and find clarity. Happy holidays to you and sending you great cheer! 
Thank you, Sam(: I wish you the same and I hope you enjoy it to the fullest!!
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In my opinion as long as it is for self healing and not a cover to isolate because of other reasons… you do you man.
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Have done the same thing and it’s been so lovely. You don’t need to explain anything to them and you shouldn’t allow yourself to feel guilty. Do you!
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Stay firmly connected to whatever keeps your recovery strong. Always. For some that’s family. For many it isn’t. For some that’s religion. For many it isn’t. For some it’s AA. For many it isn’t. Do your thing.
Same here. Going through a tough time on top of being getting sober, and just haven't been in a festive mood. Think I'll just hope to see them next year with my feet under me and a year of sobriety under my belt. We've always got our recovery family!
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Thank you guys! I should’ve known I wasn’t the only one. Seriously.. if anyone is willing to talk or need someone to just hear them out you can add me if you’re having a hard time and I’ll get your number!
You must be true to you! I’m not spending time with my grown daughter this year and it feels right too. I love her but can’t be part of the drama anymore. I thought I’d feel sad but it was definitely the right choice. Hang in there and be in joy with your choice, whatever it may be, you are the only constant you’ve got.
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Here on Earth I mean… the only Earth based constant… in-joy!!
Healthy boundaries are a huge part of recovery. I’m just getting that point now in my recovery where I can excuse myself from “obligations” if I feel uncomfortable with the surroundings. I don’t blame the others. I choose to allow them to do their thing, and I let them know I need to take care of myself. It’s a work in progress for sure. I’m proud of you brother!
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I am with you Seth, I am planning to do the same thing. Do what feels right for you.
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We can only love our children. We can’t protect them. Especially if they don’t want to be safe.
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That very issue came up in my meeting this morning and the person who shared benefited from essentially what you’re doing his first sober holiday season. The subsequent ones were gradually shared more and more with other family members. And ups and downs were sometimes growth in sober living. We are your family now too.
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Just know you may be lonely but you are never alone.
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It’s not a bad thing at all. I chose to spend thanksgiving alone & it was a relief to have some peace & quiet.
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