hi family and friends, i just thought i would ask the above question and see if i got any replies. after my trip and recieving my 20 year coin i truly felt like i accomplished something in my life. yes when i got clean i had everything i needed to live my life, w wife, 2 kids, a dog, 2 dodge vans, my own house and managed a radio station in Alaska. it's taken all this time to still realize that i do not have all the answers to recovery. sometimes i don't even know the questions. working with 5 sponsees keeps me pretty busy. i still attend as many meetings as i can.

people ask me what do i have to do to stay clean. i say it's pretty easy just change everything in your life. your playthings, play places and playmates. and no matter what do not pick up. attend meetings on a regular basis and do not pick up between meetings. use the phone as often if it's going to keep you from using. find a sponsor you can trust your life with and work the 12 steps. try to gain as much knowledge about the 12 steps and the 12 principles of Narcotics Anonymous or what ever 12 step program you belong too. using today is not an option, being miserable today is not an option, using the program at all times in your life in everything you do is the answer. i do not give advice, i make suggestions if they help you then my job has been done. my program is not perfect and it never will be but it works for me. and that is what you have to do is find the program that works for you and work it to the best of your ability. try not to complicate life by trying to find an easier softer way because there is none. so i hope i have helped you a little bit. please if you would like to write to me please feel free anytime. remember that recovery is a journey not a destination and use the rest stops God provides along the way.

his was written over four years ago but bears repeating……

In Recovery 4 Life,

JJ