We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give. - Winston Churchill My name is Seija and I am a grateful recovering alcoholic. My sobriety date is April 10, 2015. My life isn’t defined by what I did or didn’t do, what I said or didn’t say, how I acted or didn’t act in active addiction. My life today is defined by how I choose to consciously show up for others - both in and out of recovery. Every morning, I ask God two things. I ask Him to keep me sober for one more day and to help me be of maximum service to others today.
I have learned so many powerful lessons in recovery, but truly none greater than what a gift it is, every single day, to wake up on the recovery side of addiction just once more. When I started this recovery journey, I simply didn’t want to feel useless, hopeless and worthless anymore. Today, after a lot of continual daily hard work, a million tears and a lot of God’s grace, I get to be useful, feel hopeful and know that my worth isn’t defined by anyone else. When I get out of myself and am of service to others, I know that I am truly living out the purpose of God’s will for my life as best I can. I have a standing commitment every Sunday evening with a beautifully courageous, strong and brave group of ladies at a women’s sober living and work with several women at another local sober living. It’s my great pleasure to be the hands and feet for Valor Fitness Clothing, who’s commitment is one item purchased equals one item donated, by serving the unhoused in downtown Denver with my children and other friends in recovery. I am also honored to serve on two non-profit boards, Valor Rising and Primary Purpose Recovery Club. On that Friday morning in April of 2015, I had no idea where my life was going. All I knew was that I couldn’t continue to go further down that dark path. I am so grateful for the gift of a second chance, for the gift of becoming the woman I believe I was always meant to be. We do recover. One day at a time.
Seija with her children, photo cred: @recoveryrisingphotography
Want to share your bright story of recovery? Check out my submission guidelines here.
Comments