Originally Posted by Ariesagain

I am just back from an emotionally and physically demanding trip several states away dealing with my rapidly aging (and often difficult and triggering) parents and convincing them finally to move to assisted living.

I got very little sleep or exercise for 8 days, had to drive them for hours in big city traffic (which I hate), didn't eat well, and needed to be constantly vigilant to their behaviors and needs while also being endlessly patient, entertaining, and sensitive, but persuasive. Utterly exhausting...especially as I'm a complete introvert and people I'm not related to wear me out, let alone my family.

But here's the thing...I survived. I handled it. And as tired as I was, I didn't flip out or panic at any point.

There is no way I could have handled this if I were still drinking. None.

I looked in the mirror last night after I finally got home after two flights and a three-hour drive home and I didn't see a wreck. I looked tired, but I looked...capable. Calm, even.

Wow.