A New Year, A Day at a Time

P U B L I S H E R ‘S   N O T E

By Barbara Nicholson-Brown

There always seems to be pressure to make New Year’s resolutions. In my active addiction days on the first of the year I’d promise myself and others I’d sober up and stay that way. Since I wanted people off my back about my “problem,” a part of me believed I could do it on my own. But that promise was broken within days and the shame, guilt and remorse set in once again.

One of the biggest lies I ever told myself was, if I really put my mind to it, I could stop. But I am an alcoholic, always will be and cannot stop without help. One or two was never enough and neither were a few full bottles. I drank myself to oblivion and the more I did that, the less it took to get me drunk, silly and stupid. I am so grateful and thankful and blessed I do not live that way today.

There is only one way for me to thrive in recovery…. by staying grateful, suiting and showing up, remaining teachable, open, honest, and asking for help. What I can pay forward is my experience, strength and most of all hope. No matter what our story is, or where we came from, if we are sober today we can count ourselves not only blessed, but miracles.

Take this New Year at a day at a time. This isn’t a race.

Each day is another chance to get it right.