Hevyn

When I first discovered SR, I was just curious. I was not ready to give up alcohol, & didn't see how a forum could actually help. But I had begun to realize I couldn't keep my drinking lifestyle going without something terrible happening. I'd been at it for decades & things were starting to fall apart. In the beginning, I had never set out to get drunk or numb. A couple drinks seemed to help me relax & feel less self-conscious. Over the years, I fell into a pattern of masking my feelings & emotions without even realizing it. I didn't admit how dangerous the amount I was consuming had become. The first drink I ever had made me light headed & happy - what could go wrong? My family & friends were all social drinkers, & it always looked like harmless fun that enhanced social events. I had no idea it would one day rule my life. That I would get dui's. That I would do absolutely anything to keep a supply of alcohol on hand. That I would carry it in my purse so I wouldn't shake. That I would hurt and confuse everyone who loved and trusted me. That I would have to pick myself up out of the ruins and put up the fight of my life to salvage what was left.

The more I read the posts here, the more courage I found. A sense of calm came over me. I knew I wasn't alone, others had felt the same and survived - even thrived. I learned that becoming sober is not about giving something up, it's not a punishment. It's not accepting a smaller, more boring life. That way of thinking kept me clinging to alcohol long after I knew I was headed for trouble. Being sober means learning to be our authentic selves - the people we were meant to be all along, without the anesthesia. I stunted my growth and maturity - but I rose out of the rubble to live again. I am so grateful to SR and the incredible people, past and present, that I've met since that day I signed on out of curiosity. Thank you, with all my heart.

least

Congrats on 12 yrs sober! I am so glad I know you and am privileged to call you my friend.

suki44883

Congratulations on 12 years, Hevyn. You are such an inspiration here at SR.

I'm only about 5 months behind you.

gypsytears

Congratulations Hevyn. You’re such an inspiration and a calm presence here, you help make SR a safe haven for those still struggling. I hope you continue to share your journey. xoxo

VinnyMcM

Congrats on 12 years! And I think I speak for all newcomers here, a big thank you for continuing to contribute to the site!

HeadEast

Awwwww... Thank you for your great post and congratulations on 12 years.

kinzoku

Congrats!

I don't think I could have ever found sobriety without this place. I don't have anyone in my life that understands the struggles like people here do and just like you it all seemed so normal until...it wasn't.

12 years! You should be so proud

aasharon90

Your presence here, your courage and wisdom
shared regularly give many HOPE that achieving
sobriety is possible. Staying connected and responsible
for your own recovery for 12 yrs is a blessing
and a gift.

Thank you Hevyn for sharing your journey with us
here in SR.

Love and care sent your way.

thomas11

Fantastic post and congrats. that's quite an accomplishment.

january161992

Reid82

Congrats, well done!

Della1968

Dee74

I'm so glad to read this Hev - congratulations!!


D

Pondlady

Awwww, special congratulations to one of my favorite peeps I'm so proud of you, what you've done for yourself and how you inspire others. Much love to you on this special occasion!

MesaMan

.
Chez Bitchen!

Thanks to no end for your selfless dedication to us Addicts.

mariposa

Opivotal

Congratulations, Hev!!

12 years is fantastic!

Thank you for the inspiring post.

emme99

Congratulations Hevyn! Thanks for sharing and awesome job

sugarbear1

Congratulations Hevyn!!

Tetrax

Many congrats