Hello fabulous SR peeps!
I'm SOOOO happy to share that I'm celebrating one full year of sobriety today! I haven't posted anything on SR in several months, however I've actually been here all along reading SR posts daily.
I'm absolutely grateful for this wise and humble forum for being my rock and the most fantastic support system that I could have ever dreamed of. Nowadays, when I've had a tough day and my new co-workers suggest to "go grab a glass of wine to relax" ...I cringe, and then hop onto SR for encouraging posts. Reading SR with a cup of hot tea, snuggled up with my kitty is the perfect relaxation for me!
I firmly believe that the three major factors in my personal sobriety success are:
- Fully committing to my decision to be sober. Making it my first priority above everything.
- Having faith that the Universe (my higher power) is fully supporting me in my commitment. Having the confidence that it's power is far stronger than any urge or bad day that I may encounter.
- This wonderful SR forum
Because of my sobriety, wonderful doors have opened for me this year. After a tough year of unemployment, a fantastic company contacted me, and after three long and arduous months of intense interviews, I got the job. I've been with the company nearly two months now, and I know without a doubt, if I had been drinking, I never would have made it past the first interview. And I certainly wouldn't have made it through these first two intense months on the job. I still obviously experience stress and even cried the last couple of days because of it, however I'm fully capable to handle it now that I'm sober. I also noticed that I don't really get nervous anymore. I used to experience severe anxiety attacks at my old job, to the point where I would physically shake and feel sick to my stomach. I have a new found confidence and strength that I've never experienced before, and it feels great to stand up for myself. Standing my ground is not half as bad as I thought it would be, in fact it's been very empowering and is gaining me some newfound respect!
Another great and positive aspect has been the physical improvements. My skin is so much clearer, I've lost 15 pounds this past year, my eyes are clear, facial and body puff is gone, my hair is slowly getting thick again, and I can think more clearly. I have more energy, sleep soundly through the night, and wake up early feeling great with energy and a clear head.
Life is still quirky, but now, with a clear head and healthy body, I feel fully equipped to handle anything that comes my way with a sober and more confident eloquence.
I'm looking forward to another beautiful sober year, and am celebrating with a delicious hot mug of Chai tea! YUM!
Thank you dear SR family. Your very existence is treasured, appreciated and dearly loved.
