3 weeks today -- I can't believe it. I was feeling a little crummy this morning. I woke up with a cold, and I'm feeling tired and blah. On the way to work, a woman from my new home group called me just to check in. I realized after I talked to her that in 3 short weeks I've received so much just by not drinking, going to meetings, posting here, and talking on the phone to other alcoholics. Oh yeah, and getting on my knees! I always forget that one. Anyway, I made a mental list of things that make me happy in my new sober life (which I realize I have to work to sustain every day):
1. Perfect strangers call me just to see how I'm doing, and genuinely care about my well being 2. I can truly enjoy every minute with my children when I get home in the evening because I'm not in an alcohol induced haze 3. I don't have to worry about my husband catching me 4. I can go out to dinner and not obsess about how I'm going to get more than one glass of wine 5. I wake up in the morning with a clear head and a clear conscience 6. I have a noon meeting near my office filled with crusty old timers (20, 30, even 40 years!) who are funny and wonderful and excited to see me get healthy 7. I don't have to worry about getting a DUI 8. I don't call friends late at night and say stupid things, most of which I don't remember until they remind me (and then I have to pretend I know what they're talking about) 9. I am slowly gaining peace of mind like I've never had before 10. Unlike other people with deadly diseases (cancer, etc.) I can get free treatment every day that will save my life
The list goes on and on but the above 10 things came to mind.
Now, don't think that I'm skipping through the meadows, carefree. I know I have to work at this, and my messed up brain tells me all sorts of unhealthy things. What's different, though, is that for the most part I tell it to shut the hell up!
Wicked!!! 3 weeks, who would've thunk!!! I find it nice to be clear minded enough now to recognize what is important, so much went unnoticed before. It is all a rearrangement of priorities now. I think I can handle situations better now, at least rationally, unlike before. My family, like yours, will reap the benefits of these things. We owe a lot to our families for the understanding and support that they provide, spouses alone are to be commended, they didn't sign up for this disease either,lol.
Keep up the good work Jen, I thank you and am happy for you!
Scott
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Holding on to anger is like grasping a hot coal with the intent of throwing it at someone else; you are the one who gets burned. ~Buddha
Woo Hooo!!!! 3 weeks!! I am so excited for you, and proud of the way you have jumped in with both feet!! Atta' Girl, Jc!!!!
There is a lot to be grateful for. Yes, indeed. I am embarking on a brand new career, starting next week, with clinicals. it would not be possible without AA and a Loving Higher power encoraging me!!
So so glad you came here and are part of the family now!!
Love, Joni
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~~"It's hard to be hateful when you're grateful."~~
We are all sooo blessed!!!!! My gratitude list is long and wide! One of the top ten is all of you guys on mip!!!!
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"We tend to forget that happiness doesn't come as a result of getting something we don't have, but rather of recognizing and appreciating what we do have. "
Wow Jen, has it been 3 weeks already? I've been chasing this foreclosure property for 12 weeks now, since about december 20, so the last 3 weeks are a blur. Are you a real estate attorney by any chance lol.
Nice gratitude list you've got going there. Don't forget breathing, eating, shelter, and the use of all 10 fingers and toes
"crusty old timers" LOL. That's one I haven't hear before. Here's a few of my favorites. Salty Old Broads. Grumpy Old Geezer. Big Book Nazis. Glad that your making new friends in the Fellowship. The friends you make in recovery can be the ones that stick with you through good times and bad. Bob.
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Work like you don't need the money
Love like you've never been hurt, and
dance like no one is watching.
Hey Phil LMAO-(thanks for the saying Joni!) Love the orange jump suit!!!!!
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"We tend to forget that happiness doesn't come as a result of getting something we don't have, but rather of recognizing and appreciating what we do have. "
