Sobriety

In addition to my brother's 28th birthday, today is my 9th sobriety birthday.  Yes, I haven't taken a drink of alcohol for nine years.  Physical abstinence is wonderful, but what is even better is the emotional sobriety and health which derives from dealing with who I am as an individual.  Acquiring and maintaining emotional sobriety can be elusive and difficult, but the challenge and work involved is very well worth the effort.  I must confess how the time has blown by so fast.  Contrary to what a few people may think, I don't drudge through my day angry I can't have a drink.  Nor do I walk through my day fearful I will drink.  Making the decision to abstain from alcohol and the corresponding bondage has been a freeing experience.  As a result, I have been able to focus on enjoying life and achieving the vision I have cast for myself.  Of course I haven't met every goal, but I can re-evaluate and tweak those goals according to where God is taking me on this life journey.  Nine years...wow!  That's a lot of time, but I only have today to thank God for.  I must live in the present and enjoy the day for what it is.

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