Live life fully in recovery!

I know for many, myself included, the initial idea of not having drugs and alcohol in our lives can seem like life will will be boring.  The thought of not going out to bars or doing drugs and spending time with those who do the same can appear, at first, to be a change that will make life boring  

This is so far from the truth. I have had more fun in recovery than I ever could have imagined prior to a life in recovery.  I have had so many fun and fulfilling experiences in recovery that the mere thought of doing any of those experiences while drunk or high seems crazy now.  Why would I want to ruin perfectly amazing experiences?! 

Early recovery can be a time where it might be good to be careful and what things you do.  It might be a good idea in early recovery to stay away from places where alcohol might be around.  For sure, and even in long term recovery, staying away from illegal drugs and activities is very wise. Yet, with marijuana now being legal and socially acceptable in many place and settings, early recovery is usually a time where people steer clear of those scenes.

I love live music and myself and five others went and enjoyed an amazing show that was at a bar.  Lot's of alcohol present and the smell of pot was everywhere. With my life in recovery now going to something like this isn't an issue at all. I have zero desire to drink or smoke pot. These were two that I used to say I would NEVER live life without. Yet, there I was enjoying the hell out of the show with people around me partaking in both of those and I was 100% ok with not even having the thought cross my mind that I might want some myself.  

I now spend my time with people in recovery and people who aren't. I just had a great conversation with a friend about my philosophy on this very subject.  While yes, I have many friends and family who are in recovery and I love spending time with them, I also have friends and family who are not and I have just as much enjoyment hanging out with them. 

We learn in recovery that life is supposed to be lived fully.  We shouldn't isolate ourselves from the world around us and we also shouldn't judge others who might enjoy alcohol or pot.  Just because I have chosed to discontinue all use that doesn't mean it has to be the same for everyone.  My choice is my choice and others is theirs.

I am very much all about living a holistic life in recovery that is full of all experiences.  Do I hang out in bars...no, it's just not my scene anymore.  Do I go to a bar if the opportunity presents itelf here and there...sure, why not.  I love good food and The Tav is a great spot for that. Last night the concert was in a tavern...great, I will enjoy the concert AND they had great mocktails!

Live life fully in recovery.