National Recovery Month

Every September, we observe National Recovery Month. The problems of alcoholism and drug dependence are a continuing and proliferating national issue. We are all affected by addiction, either by experiencing it ourselves or having a loved one in our lives who suffers. It touches everyone, directly or indirectly. As such, it seems only right that we celebrate recovery, whether it be for a month or better yet every day.

Addiction is alive and well. It continues to stalk us all. Whether it be booze, drugs, gambling, sex, name your poison, lives are being destroyed and lost. As a nation, we spend billions of dollars a year on self-indulgences that come back to bite us on the butt. Countless hours of productivity are lost; lifetimes are squandered and wasted. I don’t know anybody that doesn’t know somebody that suffers.

Today, let us salute those in recovery. If you know someone in recovery, go up to them, acknowledge and support all their efforts. Shake their hand, pat them on the back or just hug them. Tell them that you know how hard it is and how much respect you have for them for working to recover. Surviving a life-ending addiction is never an easy process. It is as hard as anything anyone will ever do. No matter how gracefully someone may appear in recovery, they still struggle with a little something. That’s what strugglers do. Recovery is a daily experience. Each day that a person can put their personal desires aside for a higher end is a day to recognize and celebrate. One more day of sobriety is always a notable event.

Let us always celebrate our recoveries, whether it be September or not. Keep on keeping-on, my friends; we’re all in this together.

Thank you
Jim

James A. Francetich is a freelance writer and author. The opinions expressed are solely of the author and do not represent any community based recovery programs, private or public entities or any governmental agencies.