THE OTHER SIDE OF THE COIN

Often it is heard that recovery is a painful process.  I hear people talk about how difficult it is.  How it is difficult to start all over from nothing.  How their relationships have been destroyed, they are unemployed, they are in debt.  I also hear that it takes a long time, and a lot of hard work.

Although these things can be true, what about changing the perspective?  What would happen if one started to appreciate the positive aspects of recovery?

First of all, I am no longer a slave to a substance.  My life and my thoughts are not revolving solely around the getting and using of substances.  I am a free person.  I cannot attach any price tag to that.

Instead of looking at having a grade 11 education as a barrier, I used it as an opportunity to go back to college and educate myself.  I too destroyed all of my relationships.  Perseverance has paid off, and the relationships I have today are more meaningful and fulfilling than ever before in my life.

I was also in debt.  Securing employment and becoming financially independent has allowed me to be debt free and have a good credit score.

It is hard work, but the rewards are worth it!  Putting in the effort builds character as well.  I am a completely different person today.  It is because of the leg work that has gone into my recovery along with the determination, and staying constantly grateful for all of the good things.  Aside from all that, I am genuinely happy.

What side of the coin do you choose to focus on?