Full Circle Series: Epilogue

In all seriousness, I took a lot out of these two weeks.  The experience gave me so much time to think and reflect that I didn’t need the classes or groups that much.  However, this 2 week “seminar” just reinforced the thoughts of changes I wanted to make and was already making.

I am hoping with all my heart that my ordeal has taught you all a lesson.  I can’t shove this philosophy of not drinking and driving down your throat because I feel like you can only truly learn through experience.  As sad as that is, it rings true for most.  I know it did for me.   

Several realizations have taken place during my residency here. 

 

1) Upon my reflections and observations I will not take things for granted anymore. I'm not invincible.  

 

2) I have identified my demon and its name is Hard Liquor.  Whenever I have gotten in trouble in my life it has been in direct correlation with me drinking hard booze. (Author's note 2013: Still a "dark passenger" in my life, you will hardly ever see me drinking it)

3) My confidence/self esteem is a real issue that needs to be addressed. 

 

4) Awareness of paths that lead to irresponsible drinking behavior have been identified. Excess doesn't come from depression or sadness, but when things are actually going really well. 

 

5) Awareness that this kind of drinking derailment runs in our family. Use it as a bookmark reminder. I do not want to go down that path.

 

I finish this journey the same way I started it, excited and anxious.  This time however, it is because I’m embracing freedom once again with a new lease on life.  I am truly more enlightened after finishing this program, and I hope I at least stirred some inner thoughts in each of  you.

Author's Note 2013:
Years later, getting married and having a child have also dampered my intemperate youth.

My last significant spat with drinking to excess came a few years ago when I ended up falling asleep in a haunted house, but that's a story for another day.