*** Merry Christmas ***

Just Another Day

When discussing recovery from alcoholism and drug addiction, I think it is important to talk about the phrase ‘just another day’, especially during the holidays. I hear a lot about how hard it is to stay sober during the holidays, & I would like to challenge the status quo here, or at least throw some spaghetti at it & see where it lands. 

If one does a Google or browser search about ‘staying sober’ during the holidays, a plethora of websites come up. If one were to click on a website, one would see a list of things, such as inviting friends over to a sober party, responding to peer pressure such as ‘I have to drive’, engaging in new, sober activities, making non-alcoholic drinks, practicing breathing exercises, etc. Another google search will show things about having an exit plan, having a sober network, practicing gratitude, being kind to yourself or loving yourself, practicing mindfulness, staying active physically, etc. 

Although I agree with all of these suggestions and practices, I think there is a way to keep it even more simple than this. I think we as people can build things up more than what things needs or should be. I write a lot about ‘perspective’, and I think that is what recovery is about during the holidays or any other day. 

If I were to ask you what each of the holidays were, I bet you could answer them with flying colors. But if I asked you what September 23rd is, what is your answer?

Sure, we could talk about the wars and battles in 1459, 1409, & 1338, & other historical events, but does any of that mean anything to us? Absolutely not, at least not to me. September 23rd, for most of us, is just another day (unless it’s your birthday). 

Therefore, my challenge to you is this – if we can stay sober on September 23rd, how come we can’t stay sober on December 25th, Thanksgiving, July 4th, Halloween, New Years, our Birthday, etc.? They’re just another day, right? 

Peace & love to all 

~ KO