18 Days of Sober Takeaways: Day 16
Recovery Isn’t About Becoming Perfect
I wish I could say that 27 years of sobriety has made me consistently wise. It hasn't. I still have bad days.
I get angry, misread people, say things I wish I hadn't said, and occasionally make decisions that seem much better in my head than they do once they are out in the world.
What has changed is what I do afterward.
I can admit when I've gotten something wrong. I can apologize without spending the next three days explaining why I was actually right.
When I've hurt someone, I can make amends and try to understand what happened instead of drinking due to the discomfort of having to face it.
I don't have to turn every mistake into a judgment about who I am. I can look at it honestly, take responsibility for my part, and try to do better the next time.
After 27 years, that may be one of the most valuable things recovery has given me.
I don't have to be perfect. I just have to be willing to tell the truth.
It’s a long haul, but does the load get lighter? I’ll examine that tomorrow – on Day 17 in my 18 Days of Sober Takeaways from #NationalSoberDay to #SoberOctober.
If you’d like to start on Day 1, you can find it here: 18 Days of Sober Takeaways: Day 1
To further explore any of the topics raised in my 18 Days of Sober Takeaways, or if you’d like support in stopping drinking, please visit:
Substack: Sally Cardy - Transformative Recovery Solutions