Recovery has become a way of life for me. It was twenty-two years ago today that my parents picked me up at Cortland State to head to rehab again. I was through, I was beaten down. I needed peace of mind and I was willing to do anything. My way simply was not working. I was alone in a crowded room, I could not stop drinking, and I felt like a failure. I wanted more in my life. I needed help to overcome alcoholism.
Well one day at a time life began to get better and better. I was not a quick learner, I was frustrated at times, the country was in a recession and work was difficult to come by. But I made a commitment to myself that this was it, this was my shot to fulfill my potential. I would not quit, I would never, ever, ever quit! I wanted what others had and I was willing to do what was suggested to get it, even when I did not agree with it.
Today I can tell you that when I took suggestions the outcomes where better than when I road alone! I have made some major mistakes however, I have never once considered it a viable option to cash it all in and return to the drunken life! Life is good!
Go, Go, Go…
Dan 🙂
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
Dan-Let me introduce myself…I’m Jo Latino and Brooks (Tres) Dozier’s mom…We have been “friends” for awhile but haven’t communicated directly. I want you to know that I was touched by your entry today. Jo has told me about your life and your work. I believe you are aware of my son’s struggle w/ alcoholism for the past 20 years. He has lost his precious little family as a result…also every job he’s ever had. He’s been here w/ me since October serving as a substitute in the public schools. He is doing well except for the temptation when he has a bit of $$ or “wheels.”…My husband died recently and I began to ask God,”Here I am,Father, What do you have for me to do now?” The last time I was widowed, He sent me to our university campus for 3 amazing years. Then I married again and shortly thereafter, my wonderful husband developed Alzheimers…so I was his caregiver for years. I was excited to learn what my next assignment might be….then one night, I heard that Still Small Voice- the one you hear w/ your heart instead of your ears!! I believe God revealed that my assignment for now is to provide a supportive environment for Tres and if his son Max should come to live w/ us, I will be a Mom for both of them for awhile. Max is in Tucson w/ his Mother and it is not a good place for him to be…So here I am, sitting in God’s waiting room again…I just wanted you to know that I have great admiration and respect and GRATITUDE for folks like you who devote their lives to helping others. Your testimony inspires and gives HOPE to many of us. God bless you w/ an extra measure of His grace today…..Faye Jarvis
Dan- the above message was intended just for you…I DON’T KNOW MUCH about this computer stuff!!!
Thank you, I do have your son in my prayers daily, Jo has spoke to me a bit about him. God is an awesome God and answers prayer. It is great to hear that you listen as well as ask, most of us myself included do alot of asking but not enough listening for God. I admire your honesty and compassion.
Peace!