The most heartfelt part of my recovery journey has been realizing that it's a path best walked with others. Isolating myself in shame and guilt only drew me further into those tough feelings. When I hit my lowest point, I found myself in the rooms of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), where I simply listened and began to open up. Slowly, I started to heal—not just trying to get through each day, but truly growing. Before long, I realized how much people cared and how essential my recovery was. Though the urge to drink didn't vanish overnight, I was amazed to find myself enveloped in loving support. The strength of the community lifted me out of the darkness of addiction. Now, with 12 years of sobriety, I've gone far beyond that initial desperate desire to escape. Instead, my heart and mind now overflow with joy and confidence, thinking, 'Yes! Yes, I can!" It took time and effort, but I was uplifted into a space of fulfillment and freedom. For this incredible gift, I am deeply grateful and eager to pay it forward!
