2012 was over so quickly, but taught me so many things. Now, we are at the beginning of a new year. I have been stubborn throughout my recovery because being in Recovery is not “convenient” enough for me. I initially did not want to do the hard work to stay sober, but eventually I learned that not fully diving in to the recovery process would lead me back to drinking.

I have come a long way since September of 2011. I’ve learned to meditate, started a meetup group and made a lot of new, sober friends and learned how to have fun without alcohol. My relationship with my partner is great, my social life is fun and exciting and I’m truly happy for the first time.

Through meditation and AA, I’ve learned to control my impulsive nature and that has been one of the biggest tools that keeps me sober. Meditation allows me to control my thoughts and actions so that I do not create chaos in my life or in anyone else’s. Getting together with other recovering alcoholics in AA has helped me feel like I can be myself and have deep friendships with other people that are going through the same thing. I always hear what I need to hear when I go to an AA meeting. I no longer feel isolated and I have really come out of my shell.

I don’t crave drinking or the party scene very often anymore. I look forward to getting together with my friends every Friday for Game Night, getting together for a picnic or having a quiet night at home with my girlfriend. These are things that may seem boring to other people that are drinkers, but it is anything but boring. I no longer need the influence of alcohol to have fun and that is true freedom.