Calicofish

Hello Friends:
I wanted to share with the group my journey for the past 6 years. I gave up drinking in Feb. 2015 and over the past 6 years things have greatly improved. Now, it wasn't a smooth ride by any means. In these past 6 years I've moved 5 times (within 3 provinces of Canada), have gone through a couple of relationships, a few jobs, finally retired, lost both my parents (my mom just 4 weeks ago) and a few friends, and now...finally have found myself in a new relationship that is bringing me incredible joy. Certainly during some occasions the thought of drinking crossed my mind, however, I managed to overcome the temptation. I now find myself not caring about drinking and have no desire. I am able to socialize with those who drink (however I will leave if people become obnoxiously drunk - always have an exit strategy). I hold no envy for those who can drink normal as I enjoy being clear headed and in control.

I guess my reason for sharing is that I want others who are struggling to know that there is hope and things do get better. It takes time and it takes effort. There will be highs and there will be lows. My life is so much better now and I am looking forward to the future (despite the crappy pandemic).

So, my friends, please don't give up. Keep on trying. Don't let alcohol rule you. It will get better.

Hugs,
CF

stickyone

Great post . Congratulations on your 6 years of recovery. I just made a little over a year and yes there will be alot of ups and downs. And as long as you stay sober you will get past it. Have a great day

Anna

CalicoFish, it's wonderful to hear from you. Congratulations on 6 years of recovery and I'm glad you're doing so well.

Steely

I came to SR about the same time as you CF, but went back out and messed up again. Pulled myself together,
fell apart, and have been sober now for 17 months. I really didn't think I could do it. So very grateful.

I love how your describe your life now, and hear you say you don't envy others who can drink. I've found that place too. Not envying the drinker, that is. An ability to drink? Seems such a minor goal now. No goal at all. Seems foolish, petty now the emphasis I placed on alcohol. The power I gave it. No longer.

Congratulations on 6 years Calicofish.

PeacefulWater12

Lovely update, big congrats.

Dee74

Thanks so much for your post calicofish and congratulations on your success and your happiness

D

Hevyn

Thank you, CF. I'm very glad you're comfortable & happy with your life now. I like how you put it - 'clear headed & in control'. I was so reckless at the end of my drinking career - I created such a big mess to clean up. I'm so thankful we no longer live that way.

least

Congrats on six years sober! And thank you for the inspiring message.

DriGuy

Congratulations. That's just how it's supposed to be.

tursiops999

Congratulations, Calicofish. So good to read your update. I'm sorry for the loss of your mother.

SoberLeigh

Wonderful post, Calicofish. Great to hear that you are so contentedly happy.

Huge congrats on your sober time.

ZIP

Splendid accomplishment! Nice work.

Zebra1275

Thanks for the post and congratulations on over 6 years of sobriety!

brighterday1234

Congratulations on 6 years sober! 🙏

Gabe1980

What a great post to read. Thank you! xx

Congratulations on all your successes and I am so glad you are happy x

MaxVano

Thanks for sharing. I'm new here and it helps to read that. I remember a time in my life when alcohol was not a priority; I didn't need it to have fun or be relaxed or to enjoy a movie. I want that back, that feeling of freedom.

Thanks again,
Max