Just grateful

I’ve got some days sober at this point. It still strikes me though, the moments of gratitude for something as simple as not drinking or using.

My brother’s wedding was this past weekend. It was to be an event. And me, the brother of the groom. Oh boy, here we go…

Not gonna lie, I was nervous from time to time. Would I be dressed appropriately? Would I say the right thing? Would I remember names? Would I miss something?

Because I’m sober, I took time before the trip to think through what I’d wear. When it came time to pack it only took me an hour. In the end I wasn’t the finest dressed (which for his crowd would’ve been a feat), but I fit right in and felt comfortable in my skin.

Because I’m sober, I was able to be usher to my older godmother who traveled otherwise solo. I saw my godparents this summer, and me looking after her was my godfather’s one condition for trusting she’d be ok traveling. Her wisdom and company on the trip was actual magic. I’m so grateful I got to spend that time with her. And boy was she popular with the new inlaws, lol.

Because I’m sober, I didn’t miss a thing. When the “after parties” kicked in, I’d politely say my good nights and satisfy myself going back to my room. To rest up and be ready for the next day. No hangovers. No haze. Just one day right into the next, relaxed and ready to go. (Can’t say the same was true for everyone else…!)

Because I’m sober, I got to move from one conversation to the next, catching up with old friends and family and getting to know new ones. Setting aside selfish thoughts and taking an interest in my fellows. Hear stories I may otherwise have missed. And I don’t think I even made too much an ass of myself even!

And because I’m sober, I got to really appreciate the whole experience. The gravity of the day.

My dear brother has lived a broad life touching many people. For a few days, I got to see this event where all the threads of his and his partner’s lives all came to be tied together in one celebration of them. It was a magical thing that touched me profoundly, seeing him finally find his home. The joy of it moved me to tears more than once.

All to say, I was able to be present. In so many little ways, just not drinking today, no matter what, in many little moments added up to what was a really beautiful weekend.

(Also, willingly sober dancing-like-an-idiot is way more fun than drunk dancing!)

Thank you for coming to my TED talk.

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That’s wonderful news, and inspiring. It makes such a huge difference! Thanks for sharing :innocent:

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Great share Eke.
I love reading sober success stories like this. I get every part of the
Because I’m sober…….
I’m so happy for you and your family.
:folded_hands:t2::heart:

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And isn’t this the funny bit?

When I think of all the singular moments even one drink can rob us of (and isn’t it rarely just one…), it’s really amazing to take a second to stop and notice when a whole chain of unbroken moments come together like this to make a memory that’s so much more a treasure to hold closely.

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What a terrific share. Sobriety in my opinion makes life better whether just normal stuff or big event. I am so glad you could realize the true benefits of not drinking during this time…

Thanks for being here and checking in.

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Yep.

I just got back from visiting my 2 1/2 year old granddaughter. Sometimes I’m just sitting there watching her. It’s taken some work. But it’s a lovely thing to just sit there and watch. And remember the moments. All the little moments.

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Great share, Eke! Sounds like a magical experience. One you’ll never forget.

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Good stuff Eke ,as for dancing sober once i get my kilt on then its the gay Gordons (scottish Dance) LOL

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Giddy up, Ray! :fire:

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Thank you for sharing.Being present and sober is amazing. Grateful to be in recovery and experience life’s special moments. I enjoyed your TED talk so keep sharing.

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