My Mother passed away a little over a month ago. If not for recovery, I would have gone off the deep end. In recovery through NA, AA, smart recovery, celebrate recovery etc.. allows us to develop the tools and coping skills of how to deal with tragedy. We are experts at carrying pain and resentment around and using it to make excuse after excuse to justify using. We are stronger and more courageous than we know. The last ten years in recovery have been a blessing. I’ve been able to experience life’s ups and downs. More ups for sure! I know it’s hard and the struggle is real everyday. Addiction is a powerful enemy. We try to fight it alone and we lose every time. We fight it together and we have an amazing chance at recovery. Try something different today if you are struggling. Go to a meeting for the first time, drive home a different way from work. Change it up. Learn to expand your comfort zone. Just thought I would share a little hope today, that recovery is possible.
Thank you for sharing your inspiration with us.
Outstanding!
My thoughts are with you and your family. I’m glad you had the tools in place to help overcome your grief and to also inspire others. 🩵
Sorry for your loss..Everything else was beautifully said and caring ..Thanks i really needed to hear all that you have shared. May God continue to bless/shine on you... You definitely deserve it
I'm so sorry for your loss, John, but what an inspiring message. Thanks for sharing. 
My heart to you. You have a wonderful message.
You might like to check out How to Survive the Loss of a Love, the most recommended book on grief and healing by therapists in this country for many years. Especially with your career background you can pass it on to many others too. I have given twenty or more copies of it and I consider it an old friend now.
sorry for your loss stay strong