A Holiday Message From a Formerly Homeless Addict on the Importance of Relationships…
The Holidays bring up a lot of feelings in me. I see and hear how everyone is stressed about what to buy, cook, wear, see a relative they don’t like, etc. At times is seems that the holidays have become more commercial than actually about the holidays. All this has caused me, and others, to lose sight of what is truly important: Relationships.
What would we have in life if we did not have connection with others?
How would we feel if the ones whom have loved and supported us on our journey were not there?
The holidays are about honoring our relationships and sharing gratitude that we are all connected as human beings.
What It Was Like
Before I got sober I placed little value on my relationships. I was self-centered, stuck in an ego victim mindset and convinced that the world had somehow betrayed me. My only focus was drugs and getting as high as I could. I dreaded the holidays, the seasons changing to fall, the expectation of gifts and large parties I did not want to go to.
One Christmas eve I never made it home for family dinner because I was too high. My family was furious and very concerned about me but I could have cared less…
What It Is Like Now
Sobriety has brought many things in to my life. Gifted me with strong spiritual experiences and helped me achieve success in pursuing my dreams.
But the biggest gift that sobriety has given me is my relationships.
During my using days I lost everyone, my family, friends, job, home, EVERYTHING. By following a sober path and lifestyle, everything I lost has come back to me.
This holiday I share my extreme gratitude for life, connection and spirituality. I am honored to share in this journey we call life. Partake in deep connections to others, support my family, friends and community. I am grateful that I can contribute to making the world a better place simply by accepting everyone for who and what they far. I have learned to value the differences in everyone. Sobriety has shown me anything is possible if you truly believe it is.
On this holiday I am reminded that each relationship is a gift. We are a reflection of our loved ones, friends, colleagues, and acquaintances. We are all connected by the same universal source, some may call it love, some may call it god. Whatever it is, it joins us all together. Let us honor and spread love to all on this beautiful holiday.
Josh V.San Francisco, California