Jeffrey Wincott is a Canadian actor and martial artist best known for his lead role in the television series Night Heat. Wincott was also the star of several martial arts films in the 1990s.On May 9th I will be celebrating 19 years of sobriety.
How did I do it? I did it with the generous help of so many that came before me and were of service to me by giving their time and experience. I am now helping others that WANT to get sober by sharing my own experiences, strength, and hope by talking one on one, being open and honest on social media, and by sharing what I have learned through newsletters like this. Hopefully it will plant a seed.
By talking about sobriety freely, you have the capacity to start a conversation about addiction. It allows others to feel comfortable opening up about how addiction affects them or someone they know. Being honest is contagious and can help you form common bonds with others immediately. Sometimes giving your phone number to someone who wants to stop using or drinking can be a lifeline. This is being of service–being willing to be around for others when the going gets tough.
It's really hard to stop using or drinking. For a long time that's the only way I knew how to fix my problems but that “solution” is flawed because it leads to bigger problems. Now I use the 12 steps and the fellowship in the rooms as my solution. The more I focus on the problem, the bigger the problem gets and so now I try to focus on the solution. There is a way out. That way out is by being of service and doing the next right thing. Take a newcomer to coffee after meetings or pick up the phone and call someone and ask them how they are doing. Do something that will make someone’s life a little easier. Talk to people. It’s harder during the pandemic but it’s still possible and the pandemic will not last forever. The phone is your friend – use it.
Keep it simple. That’s the key. We focus on today and today only. Today we will not drink or use drugs. Repeat the same mantra tomorrow.
If you want it, there is a way out. Be of service. One day at a time.
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The CDC has said that people with a history of substance use disorder are at an increased risk for contracting the coronavirus, and for experiencing poor outcomes if they do contract the virus. For this reason, it is essential for people in our community to get the vaccine. If you–or a loved one or a friend–have questions about the vaccines, reach out to a #VaccineNavigator today. You can get in touch with a #VaccineNavigator by:
You can get in touch with a #VaccineNavigator by:
Completing the online support request form
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Events and Resources
Thursday Night Group
Support groups are essential to those of us in recovery, and COVID-19 has thrown a wrench into our ability to gather and share about our journeys. If you are in recovery and looking for an online meeting, please join us on Thursday evenings/afternoons at 6 p.m. ET (3 p.m. PT). Connections App
Have you found yourself longing for connection in the era of Covid? If you have, you’re not alone. Addiction Policy Forum recently launched an app for people in recovery to share and connect with others from across the country. The Connections App features eTherapy components, resources for finding meetings in your area, and a social space for chatting and sharing about your recovery. The best part about the app is that it’s free! Fill out the form on this page, and we’ll help you download the Connections App so that you can see what you’ve been missing.
What We're Reading...
What to Expect in Early Recovery from Addiction | Liv's Recovery Kitchen
11 Lessons Learned in 11 Years of Recovery | The Sobriety Collective
Quotes to Live By
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