Three years ago, my life was controlled by addiction. It all started with one, which I soon learned would never be enough. Every thought I had centered around drugs in one form or another. I did things I said I would never do, as I withdrew from my family and friends and my using progressed.
On August 21st of 2013, I walked into my first meeting. The very first interaction I had with anybody came in the form of a hug from a young guy, probably in his mid to late-twenties. I was slightly taken back, as I didn’t expect much more than a handshake. …show more content…
In the past, I thought a true friend was someone who’d go out of their way to make a deal with me or spot me for the weekend. I thought a true friend was someone who’d cover for me and enable me. Today, my idea of a true friend is entirely different. I learned that my true friends are the ones who have my best interest in mind, who are there for me when I need them and expect the same from me. My friends and I say I love you to each other today and we mean it.
This program has taught me how to be a friend, a son, a brother, a boyfriend, an employee, and a productive member of society. I am able to show up for life today. This past summer, my grandfather passed away. Three years ago, I would have found means of escaping the situation and numbing myself. But three years later, I was able to be there for my grandma, my father, and my aunts. I was even able to be there for my grandfather, who I’m sure is much happier I was able to celebrate his life and carry his memory than mourn his death and break in