DriGuy

That's how I saw it in early recovery. Five years seemed colossal, but more than 25 was a wonder that was hard to imagine. It's not hard to imagine anymore, and oddly it doesn't seem colossal, either. You just reach a point where you change your approach to life and time just passes. But it was those old timers, all of whom were genuinely happy, that really drove home the fact that sobriety was a blessing, rather than a sacrifice. I remember taking my ques from them, and deciding that was where I would eventually be. Of course, there's pride in 27 years, but more than that, there is simple joy and contentment. I worked hard in early recovery, but less and less as time went by. Sometimes I still have to work hard, but there is no resentment in having to do it. I enjoy those times when I confront and solve my problems. It makes me feel confident and grown up (which is about time at my age).