With The Hawkins Center's help I got disability benefits and got into a treatment program. I learned that other can point out the direction but I had to do the walking. My first ray of hope came when I stopped using and my mind immediately started clearing up. I talked to others in the same situation as me. I went to AA meetings. I got a clean and sober friend. My thoughts were scary at times but I was learning the reward for remaining sober were great. I started feeling my emotions. I started to work out the problems that caused me to drink and use. I learned I couldn't just stop using, I had to replace it with something new.
I have been clean and sober for over three years now. I've regained my health and replaced drugs with exercise which is my natural high. I'm happier now than any other time in my life and have no place to go but up!
As part of my treatment program I got a part-time job. My employer has offered a promotion to a full-time position when my voluntary treatment program ends in about a year. I've been nominated for the employee of the month two months in a row now. I coordinated the Christmas program for needy kids, which actually helps me more than it helps them.
Since becoming clean and sober I feel as if the blessings just don't
stop. I see my daughter regularly now and renewing our relationship has
been a key to my happiness. I have so much love inside me now that I must
give it to others. My spiritual needs required me to return to church,
and I believe a large part of my recovery is due to God's grace. I've never
had a more positive outlook for the future.