Adolescence can be a tough time. For some more than others. The first time I got properly arrested and taken downtown I was 14. I had gotten caught by security trespassing at a middle school I didn’t attend. I can’t even remember why I was there. Here in this photo, with a black eye, defeated and coming down off something, I would begin an illustrious career battling addiction and the court system while simultaneously navigating the difficult years of growing up into the man I was to become.
A few years later, the dark road I went down nearly ended my life and on September 9th 1999 I was locked up for the last time. With no more bridges to burn and not a single option left I finally was finally willing to try something new.
Every year on this day I’m reminded of why I got sober and why I remain as such. I’m an alcoholic of the true variety. Just like my father before me, and his father before him. What sets me apart from my fellows is that I cannot drink or use drugs recreationally to have a good time. A psychological allergy occurs and once I start I can’t stop.
Luckily I was able to find a solution in the rooms of alcoholics anonymous, I got a sponsor, did the work and the obsession to use was lifted from my mind body and soul.
I’m grateful every day that I get to live this life sober. If you’re struggling out there, I want to let you know that there IS a solution.
All my love
William