r/SMARTRecovery • u/Secure_Ad_6734 facilitator • Dec 08 '24
10 years sober Positive/Encouraging
Today marks my 10 year anniversary of getting sober. I, originally, stopped drinking after turning 60 but had a one day relapse.
Although I joined SMART recovery and we don't normally count days/time in our community, I wanted to share this anyway.
When I joined, there was little to no concept of what I valued other than my sobriety. I hadn't worked in over a decade, having been homeless for about 8 years. I hadn't been in contact with family in 15 years. I hadn't had any real health care beyond visits to emergency departments. I had no savings or any real financial health and was on welfare basic benefits. I think you get the picture.
10 years later, I have the same address for the entire time, a first since becoming an adult. Hence, I realized the importance of stability. I located my sister and made contact - visiting her for her 65th birthday. However, I have since gone no contact for personal reasons.
I tracked my own children through Facebook but there is no interest in contact on there part - it's sad but that is their right.
I spent 5+ years volunteering in my community. Both as a Smart facilitator and in harm reduction.
I was diagnosed with cancer but remained sober.
I resolved my financial challenges through budgeting and no longer live paycheck to paycheck. In fact, I was able to donate 5 figures to charity.
I rarely attend in person meetings anymore but am active daily with recovery through Reddit. I have found more balance in my life that works for me.
Thanks you to everyone who walked the path with me and especially those who lit the road ahead.
Love you all, James 😄
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u/Canna111 Caroline14 Dec 08 '24
A huge congratulations on the 10 years James. It's wonderfully inspiring to hear of all that you have achieved - most of all in terms of achieving abstinence against such odds, but also in terms of giving to your communities with your voluntary work, getting your finances sorted out so brilliantly well and making contact with your sister again, even if you decided that isn't something that feels right for you at the moment.. Accepting your cancer diagnosis without resorting to your DOC was also a major achievement. I feel incredibly proud to know you.
Hugs, peace and friendship. Caroline
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u/wvmom2000 I'm from SROL! Dec 08 '24
Congratulations James. I'm so glad that you have found and shared all the goodness that was stifled far too long by substances and their hold on you. Thank you for leading me on that path and for lighting my road. Love you!
Traci
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u/Ok-Might-9395 Dec 08 '24
So you're still working?
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u/Secure_Ad_6734 facilitator Dec 08 '24
No, I haven't had a job since 2001. I'm retired and 70 years old now.
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u/Nearby_Frosting_3627 facilitator Dec 08 '24
James this is incredible - thank you for sharing your story with us.
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u/bob-s-23 bob-s Dec 10 '24
James; It sounds like you are making all the right moves. Congratulations on 10 years, that is a milestone to be very proud of.
Maybe some day your kids will come around but as you say it is their choice. Maybe their memories still hurt.
Just piece your life together one step at a time. I know there are a lot in this community that are pulling for your continued success.
Be proud.
Bob
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u/Far_Information_9613 28d ago edited 28d ago
That’s so awesome! I work in healthcare and I was feeling really shitty and discouraged today. You really changed my perspective and gave me a boost, reading your post, and I appreciate you. 10 years sober is a major accomplishment and I really hope you feel that.
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u/Secure_Ad_6734 facilitator 28d ago
Thank you. For a little more perspective, google Vancouver Downtown Eastside. This is where I live and got clean and sober.
It acts as a daily reminder of who and what I turn into when in active addiction.
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u/xine-c Xine Dec 08 '24
Congrats, James. I recall your many helpful postings on SROL. Glad to know of your continued success.