For whom do we get sober?
So often, it can be to keep our families together. To keep the boss happy…. The probation officer.
But I would argue that there is trouble with this approach.
When we do anything for the acknowledgment or affirmation of another person, our performance and its satisfaction (and therefore sustainability), becomes dependent on the response of another person.
What happens if/when they do not acknowledge or respond in the way or the timeline we expect?
We become resentful, “what’s the point?” we might say and throw in the towel.
Our renewed relationships and accolades can be by-products of our recovery but should not be the guiding motivator.
If I’m being completely honest, early in my own recovery I held unrealistic expectations of others and how they would respond to my recovery efforts because I knew (deep down) when they would fall short of those expectations I would have a great excuse to get loaded. “Hey, at least I tried” I thought.
We can also come to find that we continue to use in secret while waiting for others to “get on board” with our recovery efforts. Perpetuating the very behaviors that created the separation in the first place. This is insanity.
You are worthy of life and life in the fullest…. And that is enough of a reason.
Do it for you.
Do it today.
Do it one step at a time.
Love and respect,
T