But when you say, “None of it had to happen,” I have my doubts. I was explaining just the other day to a 17-year-old trying to get sober that when an alcoholic or addict stops drinking and using, there’s a big hole inside. “Normal” people say, hey, great, you’ve stopped drinking and using, your problems are over. But for an alcoholic, that’s when the problems start. Unless one finds a suitable replacement for the chemicals. This is something that normies and doctors have a hard time understanding. Those who “get it” are truly fortunate/blessed/lucky/miracles (choose your word). The majority die of their condition.

“You’ve been standin’ on the corner for a thousand nights
It’s the slowest corner known to man
Watchin’ strange faces passin’ ‘neath the lights
With a bottle wavin’ in your hand
You got just enough money for some nothin’ to go
It ain’t exactly what you planned
So lonesome that you can’t even say hello
And no one seems to understand
So you’re a mixed up kid, come on and join the crowd
The ones that only fit where they’re not allowed
Out on the streets and you’re feelin’ blue…..
Travelin’ light
With a hole in your soul where the wind blows through
A hole in your soul where the wind blows through…” –Peter Case

Never underestimate the gift you’ve been given.