I gained a healthy sober brother (thankfully), but lost my "drinking buddy"
My brother is a heroin addict. He recently came clean and came to me for help. He went to rehab and is now in a sober living community doing very well, it seems. I am so very glad that he appears to be moving forward and building a better life for himself. The most important thing is that he is healthy, happy, and safe. Selfishly, though, I have other feelings about this too. We used to do a lot of things together. Camping, events/festivals, vacations, or just hanging out, having a few beers, talking about life. Now, if he follows typical protocol amd obstains from all mind-altering substances (which many say is the most effective way to maintain recovery), he won't be able to do those things anymore, and I will miss it. Its a very conflicting combination of emotions.