I just stumbled upon this thread. It is awesome, and I have been wondering the same thing. Wondering if I don't "do recovery" will I be missing out on some serious personal/emotional and (dare I say) spiritual development. I am glad to see from everyone's responses here that without the alcohol/drugs, life becomes richer and more satisfying. Cool. This helps A LOT as I am on day 1 number gazillion wondering which "path" to take on this renewed effort at staying sober.