I'm trying very hard to tell myself this; these holiday

Recovery
#21

“It never ceases to amaze me: we all love ourselves more than other people, but care about their opinions more than our own.” – Marcus Aurelius

This is what I used to help put into perspective my worries about people knowing I was sober and no longer the Frank the Tank of the party anymore.

Why should someone’s opinion of me be valued more than my own opinion of me? It took me a while to fully grasp this as a mentality. If I was going to do this sobriety thing, I needed to make sure I was happy with myself at the end of the day more than I cared if those around me were happy with me.

What has actually happened is that not only am I happier with myself than I have ever been, but those around me are genuinely happier with me as well. Sure, there are some friends that have been lost as a result, but I’ve realized those were not great friendships to begin with. Those remaining friendships are stronger and healthier than I imagined they could have been as a result.

So now, when someone asks me why I’m not drinking, I’m honest and open, to a point. The closer you are to me, the more I tell you.

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#22

This is very powerful, thank you so much. This was exactly what I needed this evening. I appreciate you.

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#23

Anytime, Addy! One day at a time. You’ve got this!! And when you don’t think you do, we’re here for you.

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#24

Shed the notion that your sobriety is a badge of shame. Wear your sobriety as a badge of honor! You may be surprised with the amount of support you get. Those that cannot be proud and supportive of your decision to tackle this disease and live your best life, are only going to continue to hold you back from your true potential! You don’t have to do this alone! We are all here for you!

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#25

How are you making out so far? :pray:t3::heart::muscle:t4:

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#26

I'm doing good. There's one other person who is not drinking so it has made it easier to make conversation.

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