September 14

I don’t know why I am not divorced. I really don’t. Most marriages don’t survive active addiction, and even many more do not survive the transition to recovery. So many people have a rosy idea about recovery, thinking everything will be great once the alcoholic/addict sobers up. They imagine a more wholesome and loving existence. Still, that road can be just as rough as active addiction and drinking. For my wife and I, it was painful. We argued all the time (we still argue on occasion - it is a marriage, after all), and the kids were/are always listening. Don’t think they don’t hear every word. Saving your marriage and family in recovery is only a bonus! Many people believe that getting sober will heal much more than the alcoholic/addict. The more I learn about our disease, the more I know that focusing on myself and what I need to do will ultimately help my family. It’s not that I am the primary source of the problem, but I can certainly help by not making the problems worse.

Reflections

Did your relationships survive? Are you grateful or regretful?

Daily Challenge

Start a list of things that need to be fixed around the house. Then, don’t buy another thing for yourself until that list is completed.