From early on, I began drinking and using substances, starting with a stolen beer from my mom's cooler. The thrill of getting away with it was exhilarating. Smoking weed at nine quickly became a regular habit, but it wasn't until I experimented with pills and opiates at thirteen that I truly embraced the effects of drugs. Manipulation became routine, fueled by my addiction. At twenty, I learned about withdrawal and the grip drugs had on me. My daily life revolved around using.

My sobriety journey began on September 18, 2017, but it wasn't my first attempt. In 2016, I hit rock bottom and got a year clean, but realized true sobriety required more. An 11-month relapse showed me intense loneliness and despair, culminating in a car crash. Seeking change, I reached out for help.

Loneliness drove me to embrace the rooms of sobriety. Beyond abstinence, I committed to the work. I followed suggestions, connected with those working the program, and diligently tackled the steps. My sponsor made them accessible, and Step 3 was pivotal. I realized sobriety is what I create – I didn't get clean to be joyless.

Now, I owe my life to the daily program. I've found support and camaraderie by attending five meetings a week, working the steps with my sponsor, and fostering friendships. I started a sober living space with a friend to pay forward the help I received. By trusting, cleaning up, serving, and connecting, I've exceeded my dreams for a sober life – and I'm loving every moment.

My drinking journey took off when I moved to the Virgin Islands at 15, where a loose drinking age allowed me to indulge freely. Island life was a perfect match. However, drinking shifted from fun to problematic after my dad's death at 16. It wasn't alcoholism yet, but I used sympathy to excuse my behavior.

Transitioning to California for college seemed promising, but control over drinking and drugs waned. Adderall misuse worsened, causing hallucinations and self-destructive thoughts. Rock bottom hit in 2014, leading me to sobriety meetings and sober living. Honest introspection unveiled my self-hatred and character flaws.

The fellowship in recovery became my anchor. Taking my first sobriety milestone brought overwhelming love and connection. I now mentor others, passing on the gift of recovery. My wedding, including groomsmen from sober living, showcased the unique bond formed through this journey.

Opening a sober living facility became my way of paying forward the transformation I experienced. Recovery is about giving back and helping others achieve a life they never imagined. Today, I'm not defined by past mistakes but by my ability to support others on their path to healing.