In Recovery and Back Home Spreading the Message

Yo Juan & Sal!
 I’ve attached 2 pictures, not exactly the greatest of shots lol, (my 4 year old took them) to show you that I am keeping up with the "faux hawk" (not sure how to spell that). I’ve been trying to keep in touch with otherguys who were there, but I’ve only been able to contact three.

I’ve spoken on the phone with long haired Jason. He’s doing well. I’ve e-mailed Mark (the punk rocker), but he doesn’t write much and lately hasn’t really been writing back at all. I Hope he is ok. I also heard from Terry a  while ago. 

With my kids and snowstorms (one to two feet at a time—4 storms in the past 2 weeks and one on its way) it’s been very difficult to get to meetings, but I am doing well nonetheless. No problems at all. I'm staying completely sober. In fact, at the end of this month I can get my 6 month coin! I am actually excited about that.

I carry The Sunrise ranch coin from my coin ceremony in my wallet. It’s a good reminder of what recovery is all about and what I learned about myself and life at the Ranch. You probably don’t remember, Sal, but at a step meeting that you were running I said that one of my biggest worries is telling friends at home about my addiction and that I went to rehab. Slowly I told people here and I was really surprised—pleasantly surprised— at the responses. Not one negative! All positive. One actually cried. It made me feel kinda bad because I never realized before how much some friends care. It’s a bitter sweet feeling.

I know I am just starting my journey as a recovering addict, but I’ve discovered that I really enjoy helping other addicts in their recovery. It makes me feel good and is good for my recovery too. So, I am looking into degree programs here, possibly online at first, into being a licensed counselor like you guys. When I was there I felt like you guys truly felt rewarded by your work. I respect what you do a lot! Maybe one day we could talk on the phone and discuss how you guys became counselors & what being a counselor is like. I am really interested. Again, I know I am new to recovery, but I feel like this is the path my life is taking me to. We’ll see.

Anyway, just wanted to keep in touch and show off the beautiful faux hawk. I am such a handsome guy I couldn’t NOT share a picture of myself.  I am very considerate like that :) Take care,

S.D.

P.S. I type as much as I talk, huh?