2 years today !

[KingofHearts]

High five!

I'm sure I'm not the only other PA thinking "Yeah, I can do that".

Good on you!

[dave]

You've just proved that you can do anything you put your mind to...and that you are in control of your life.

Thanks for the feedback . . . .

Just a few thoughts. I am not a conservative christian (quite liberal in my theology actually) but I feel that my higher power has been a major factor in my recovery. Many days I have had to remind myself that I DON'T have control of my life. When I was using P and MB to self medicate myself through life I was 'trying' to control my life.

I have seen this 'mystery' intervene so often during my recovery. I start each day with a meditation time and end with a few thankful prayerful thoughts.

I also received some great counselling from a therapist who knows this addiction very well. We were able to excavate a sizable chunck of my emotional landscape . . . why sx has been so powerful in helping me cope. I have not reaching anything like serenity with my life, but I have made a general peace with myself.

I never intended to be addicted, but for decades P & MB were all I knew how to cope with life. I knew they weren't right but they became compulsive - a viscious cycle developed. A cylcle of shame, hopelessness and instant gratification when I wanted it.

I honestly never saw another way to live. When I first quit it was terrifying. I couldn't image life without P, MB - the contiual chemical rushes are so powerful and very hard to explain to someone who has not been addicted. But I think the spirit gave me an opening to try a new way.

The first few weeks and months were rough. I was very emotional - tearful, but I white-knucked it long enough to find some great supports and then I moved on to recovery.

I still have my rough days but life is so much better. I have my integrity back and have moved from "shame to grace". Mostly I know a new way to live and this gets me through the odd challenge.

I am so greatful for this new way of living.

Encouragement to all . .

Dave

[Daniel]

Thank you Dave.

Your story is very encouraging and a joy read... Giving hope to many.

Daniel