Gary Goldstein's Blog - Posts Tagged "clean"
Nine Years & Counting!
Saturday marked nine years I have been home from prison, and being a free man is something that only those who have spent time behind bars can truly understand and appreciate.
Not being required to ask such simple questions, such as when to go to the bathroom and shower, or what time is permitted to visit the library or get exercise, is just the tip of the iceberg.
For me personally, I have more than merely the physical freedom that release from incarceration restored.
I am now more at peace with myself, comfortable in my own skin, loaded with self-esteem and self-confidence, and able to live my life as I want, as opposed to being a follower, which I was for so many years in the past.
However, perhaps best of all, I am clean & sober, and using what I have learned about myself and the disease of addiction to help others with their own recovery.
I only wish my beloved late father, Irving Goldstein, was alive today, in order that he could see that I finally started to do things right, and that everything my father always used to tell me from his own experiences, and the values he instilled into me, are something I rely upon so much each and every single day.
My book, “Jew in Jail,” will forever be dedicated to my father and how much I love and respect him for always being there for me, and I will continue to do my best to honor my father’s memory by living a fruitful life, including helping others.
Never will I take anything in life for granted, from the simplest of things such as a bright sunny day, to enjoying the company of family and friends, to my own health and well-being.
If it is true that the best things in life are free, then I would have to consider myself a multi-billionaire!
Not being required to ask such simple questions, such as when to go to the bathroom and shower, or what time is permitted to visit the library or get exercise, is just the tip of the iceberg.
For me personally, I have more than merely the physical freedom that release from incarceration restored.
I am now more at peace with myself, comfortable in my own skin, loaded with self-esteem and self-confidence, and able to live my life as I want, as opposed to being a follower, which I was for so many years in the past.
However, perhaps best of all, I am clean & sober, and using what I have learned about myself and the disease of addiction to help others with their own recovery.
I only wish my beloved late father, Irving Goldstein, was alive today, in order that he could see that I finally started to do things right, and that everything my father always used to tell me from his own experiences, and the values he instilled into me, are something I rely upon so much each and every single day.
My book, “Jew in Jail,” will forever be dedicated to my father and how much I love and respect him for always being there for me, and I will continue to do my best to honor my father’s memory by living a fruitful life, including helping others.
Never will I take anything in life for granted, from the simplest of things such as a bright sunny day, to enjoying the company of family and friends, to my own health and well-being.
If it is true that the best things in life are free, then I would have to consider myself a multi-billionaire!
My Father, My Hero!
What better day to honor my beloved, late father, and devote to my blog, than Father's Day?
Although Irving Goldstein passed away on January 23, 1999, my father has been on my mind every single day, and as time has gone by, I have a much deeper love and respect for my father than ever before.
To have put up with a son who is an addict is one thing, but to always be there in my corner, offering invaluable, much-needed advice and counseling, is something I treasured, and, in fact, rely on now, on a daily basis.
My dad was such a hard worker, and provided for his family and extended family his whole life, and I am forever proud of being able to be known as Irving Goldstein's son.
I was unfortunate to be incarcerated when my beloved father passed away, and unable to attend the funeral, but will never forget the lessons my father taught me all throughout his life.
It has only been over the past five years and seven plus months - the time I have currently been clean & sober - that I have truly been able to understand and appreciate everything my father taught me while I was growing up.
The morals and principles he instilled into me, that, to this day, I draw upon as I live my life and keep close to my heart, make me realize that, if I could end up being just a fraction of the great man my father was, I would consider myself to be a huge success.
Irving Goldstein, Happy Father's Day.
You always were, and always will be, my hero, and I love and miss you very, very much.
Jew in Jail
Although Irving Goldstein passed away on January 23, 1999, my father has been on my mind every single day, and as time has gone by, I have a much deeper love and respect for my father than ever before.
To have put up with a son who is an addict is one thing, but to always be there in my corner, offering invaluable, much-needed advice and counseling, is something I treasured, and, in fact, rely on now, on a daily basis.
My dad was such a hard worker, and provided for his family and extended family his whole life, and I am forever proud of being able to be known as Irving Goldstein's son.
I was unfortunate to be incarcerated when my beloved father passed away, and unable to attend the funeral, but will never forget the lessons my father taught me all throughout his life.
It has only been over the past five years and seven plus months - the time I have currently been clean & sober - that I have truly been able to understand and appreciate everything my father taught me while I was growing up.
The morals and principles he instilled into me, that, to this day, I draw upon as I live my life and keep close to my heart, make me realize that, if I could end up being just a fraction of the great man my father was, I would consider myself to be a huge success.
Irving Goldstein, Happy Father's Day.
You always were, and always will be, my hero, and I love and miss you very, very much.
Jew in Jail
What Are You "Recovering" From?
Let's face it. We are all recovering from something, because, if we weren't, that would mean we are perfect, which none of us are.
To many of us, admitting we are recovering, or "in recovery," tells the world we are weak. However, I think it is just the opposite, and it demonstrates the strength necessary to realize that sometimes we need to get ourselves a "tune up," and take stock of our situations.
I have now been clean and sober for five years, seven months and 23 days, but am still in recovery from addictions to alcohol, drugs and gambling.
What's more is the fact that I realize that my recovery doesn't come with a finish line, and I will have to monitor it on a daily basis for the rest of my life.
But that is just fine with me, since it helps keep me on my toes.
Perhaps the best part is that I choose to help others who are also saddled with this disease, and, by doing so, reinforce my own dedication to remain clean and sober.
Therefore, I view it as a win-win situation.
So, what are you recovering from?
Alcohol, drugs and compulsive gambling like me, an eating disorder, too much shopping, an uncontrollable sex urge, or something totally different, like constantly being down on yourself and living with low self-esteem?
Cheer up, because I am here to reveal to you - if nobody has ever told you this before - that you were born with greatness and unlimited potential.
Yes, you read me correctly. You have the innate talents and abilities to succeed at so many different things, if you only believe this too, and give yourself a chance.
You might be great at singing, dancing, fixing automobiles, fashion, mathematics, making people laugh, photography, or, dare I say, writing!
The point is that you must surround yourself with positive, supportive people, who aren't going to bring you down to their level of pessimism.
You also must believe in yourself, and that there is nothing in life you cannot accomplish, if you work hard, stay focused, and remain dedicated to the task at hand.
Remember, you were born to leave your mark in this world, so start doing so today!
We are all waiting!
To many of us, admitting we are recovering, or "in recovery," tells the world we are weak. However, I think it is just the opposite, and it demonstrates the strength necessary to realize that sometimes we need to get ourselves a "tune up," and take stock of our situations.
I have now been clean and sober for five years, seven months and 23 days, but am still in recovery from addictions to alcohol, drugs and gambling.
What's more is the fact that I realize that my recovery doesn't come with a finish line, and I will have to monitor it on a daily basis for the rest of my life.
But that is just fine with me, since it helps keep me on my toes.
Perhaps the best part is that I choose to help others who are also saddled with this disease, and, by doing so, reinforce my own dedication to remain clean and sober.
Therefore, I view it as a win-win situation.
So, what are you recovering from?
Alcohol, drugs and compulsive gambling like me, an eating disorder, too much shopping, an uncontrollable sex urge, or something totally different, like constantly being down on yourself and living with low self-esteem?
Cheer up, because I am here to reveal to you - if nobody has ever told you this before - that you were born with greatness and unlimited potential.
Yes, you read me correctly. You have the innate talents and abilities to succeed at so many different things, if you only believe this too, and give yourself a chance.
You might be great at singing, dancing, fixing automobiles, fashion, mathematics, making people laugh, photography, or, dare I say, writing!
The point is that you must surround yourself with positive, supportive people, who aren't going to bring you down to their level of pessimism.
You also must believe in yourself, and that there is nothing in life you cannot accomplish, if you work hard, stay focused, and remain dedicated to the task at hand.
Remember, you were born to leave your mark in this world, so start doing so today!
We are all waiting!
Recovery Is Great!
Without a doubt, these past five years and nine plus months have been the best of my 51 year life so far.
Recovery has helped me reclaim my life, self-esteem, self-confidence, and purpose for being.
Even though I nearly died of an alcohol and drug overdose way back in 1989, and then also spent nearly six years incarcerated as a result of my past addictions to alcohol, drugs and gambling from 1998-2004, it wasn't until I woke up on the morning of October 31, 2007, and decided that I had finally had enough of the never ending maze that my life had turned into.
I was ashamed and embarrassed that, although I possessed a college degree in journalism and had worked for many prestigious media companies in the Tri-State area, I had succumbed to the disease of addiction.
However, not long after entering the Coney Island Hospital Chemical Dependency Outpatient Program, I learned that I was human and that recovery was indeed possible.
Today, after having graduated from the program in 2009, I am now the president of the alumni committee and speak to the current clients there, as well as recovering addicts at other programs, hospital detoxes, jails, schools, etc., and understand the importance of giving back to share the message to those who are still sick and suffering.
I also speak about the book I wrote while incarcerated, titled, Jew in Jail, to reinforce the fact that it is never too late to change, and that there is absolutely no shame whatsoever in asking for help.
Being clean and sober feels great - not only physically, but mentally, emotionally and spiritually - and provides me with the peace of mind and tranquility that is priceless.
Never will I take anything in life for granted, from a beautiful sunny day, to seeing children playing and enjoying themselves without a care in the world, and I owe it all to those professionals who work in the field, as well as the thousands of other grateful recovering addicts who share their stories and allow me to share mine too.
If there is one piece of advice I can give to those reading my story now who are still in the grips of addiction, it is to always keep in mind that, no matter what troubles you may be going through at any particular time in your life, someone else has already experienced the same problems and difficulties, and was able to persevere with the help of others and move on to lead a healthy and productive life.
In recovery, one is never alone, and I encourage those who are still battling this disease to always seek out someone to talk to, because keeping things bottled up is never the correct strategy.
In closing, this recovering addict wants everyone to know that they possess greatness, and no matter what anyone did in their past, it does not have to define who they are as a person.
Live recovery one day at a time!
If you haven’t read my book, “Jew in Jail” yet, I hope you do.
It is chock full of insightful information on how I was able to recover from my past addictions to alcohol, drugs and gambling while incarcerated, and go on to lead a happy and healthful life myself.
http://www.jewinjail.com/
I also always welcome comments from you, my readers, about my blog, book or website, because receiving feedback from you is what drives me to be my best and help others.
Until next time, everyone, have a great day, and week ahead!
Recovery has helped me reclaim my life, self-esteem, self-confidence, and purpose for being.
Even though I nearly died of an alcohol and drug overdose way back in 1989, and then also spent nearly six years incarcerated as a result of my past addictions to alcohol, drugs and gambling from 1998-2004, it wasn't until I woke up on the morning of October 31, 2007, and decided that I had finally had enough of the never ending maze that my life had turned into.
I was ashamed and embarrassed that, although I possessed a college degree in journalism and had worked for many prestigious media companies in the Tri-State area, I had succumbed to the disease of addiction.
However, not long after entering the Coney Island Hospital Chemical Dependency Outpatient Program, I learned that I was human and that recovery was indeed possible.
Today, after having graduated from the program in 2009, I am now the president of the alumni committee and speak to the current clients there, as well as recovering addicts at other programs, hospital detoxes, jails, schools, etc., and understand the importance of giving back to share the message to those who are still sick and suffering.
I also speak about the book I wrote while incarcerated, titled, Jew in Jail, to reinforce the fact that it is never too late to change, and that there is absolutely no shame whatsoever in asking for help.
Being clean and sober feels great - not only physically, but mentally, emotionally and spiritually - and provides me with the peace of mind and tranquility that is priceless.
Never will I take anything in life for granted, from a beautiful sunny day, to seeing children playing and enjoying themselves without a care in the world, and I owe it all to those professionals who work in the field, as well as the thousands of other grateful recovering addicts who share their stories and allow me to share mine too.
If there is one piece of advice I can give to those reading my story now who are still in the grips of addiction, it is to always keep in mind that, no matter what troubles you may be going through at any particular time in your life, someone else has already experienced the same problems and difficulties, and was able to persevere with the help of others and move on to lead a healthy and productive life.
In recovery, one is never alone, and I encourage those who are still battling this disease to always seek out someone to talk to, because keeping things bottled up is never the correct strategy.
In closing, this recovering addict wants everyone to know that they possess greatness, and no matter what anyone did in their past, it does not have to define who they are as a person.
Live recovery one day at a time!
If you haven’t read my book, “Jew in Jail” yet, I hope you do.
It is chock full of insightful information on how I was able to recover from my past addictions to alcohol, drugs and gambling while incarcerated, and go on to lead a happy and healthful life myself.
http://www.jewinjail.com/
I also always welcome comments from you, my readers, about my blog, book or website, because receiving feedback from you is what drives me to be my best and help others.
Until next time, everyone, have a great day, and week ahead!
A Day Of Recovery To Remember!
I had such an amazing time at the 2013 Rally4Recovery this past Saturday in Providence, Rhode Island, which I attended with my friends from the New York State Office Of Alcoholism And Substance Abuse Services, that I can hardly believe it was actually real, as opposed to simply a great dream!
Everyone was so polite, happy, cordial, and on the same page as far as keeping the focus on recovery and giving back to those who are still struggling with this terrible disease.
I spent hours walking around the venue - Roger Williams National Memorial Park - and met and snapped photos with so many terrific people, listened and danced to the live music, basked in the sun, and just took in everything that was happening around me.
Of course, addiction does not only affect "regular" people, but the entire world population, and there were many celebrities, who are also in recovery, offering their support to the cause as well.
I spent time with former Rhode Island Congressman & Grand Marshall Patrick Kennedy, former Heavyweight Boxer "Gentleman" Gerry Cooney, and former National Basketball Association star Chris Herren, among others, and they were all as humble, gracious, and just as adamant about lobbying our elected officials to increase public funding to help fight this disease as anyone else who is involved in this field would be.
Being clean and sober myself now for nearly six years has enabled me to see things from a different perspective, and I can say, without a doubt, that life is what we make of it.
The fact that people are inherently good, especially those working to promote recovery from addiction, has reinforced my own feelings on human nature, and that sharing and caring is far better than using and losing!
I, nor anybody else, can ever go back and change our pasts, but at least if I can make a difference in another recovering addicts' life and help someone suffering from the disease of addiction get better, then I will have been able to take a bad personal situation and use it in a positive way to assist another human being.
Every life is precious, so whether it is the disease of addiction, or any other ailment, don't we all owe it to one another to be there to lend support?
Think about that the next time you see a man or woman who is having a hard time in life.
Let your conscience guide the way!
Everyone was so polite, happy, cordial, and on the same page as far as keeping the focus on recovery and giving back to those who are still struggling with this terrible disease.
I spent hours walking around the venue - Roger Williams National Memorial Park - and met and snapped photos with so many terrific people, listened and danced to the live music, basked in the sun, and just took in everything that was happening around me.
Of course, addiction does not only affect "regular" people, but the entire world population, and there were many celebrities, who are also in recovery, offering their support to the cause as well.
I spent time with former Rhode Island Congressman & Grand Marshall Patrick Kennedy, former Heavyweight Boxer "Gentleman" Gerry Cooney, and former National Basketball Association star Chris Herren, among others, and they were all as humble, gracious, and just as adamant about lobbying our elected officials to increase public funding to help fight this disease as anyone else who is involved in this field would be.
Being clean and sober myself now for nearly six years has enabled me to see things from a different perspective, and I can say, without a doubt, that life is what we make of it.
The fact that people are inherently good, especially those working to promote recovery from addiction, has reinforced my own feelings on human nature, and that sharing and caring is far better than using and losing!
I, nor anybody else, can ever go back and change our pasts, but at least if I can make a difference in another recovering addicts' life and help someone suffering from the disease of addiction get better, then I will have been able to take a bad personal situation and use it in a positive way to assist another human being.
Every life is precious, so whether it is the disease of addiction, or any other ailment, don't we all owe it to one another to be there to lend support?
Think about that the next time you see a man or woman who is having a hard time in life.
Let your conscience guide the way!
Be Thankful EVERY Single Day!
I hope everyone had a very enjoyable Thanksgiving, and didn't eat and drink too much.
As for myself, I really don't need society telling me that November 28, 2013 - or any other day for that matter - is when I should be thankful for everything that I have in life.
Simply put, I wake up each and every single day full of gratitude for my health, my family and friends, and just to be alive, especially considering all that I have experienced as a result of my past addictions and risky behaviors over the years.
I would gladly give up one ear, hand or foot to be able to go back in time and change some things from my past, but of course, as a realist, I understand that is just not possible.
I miss my beloved late father, Irving Goldstein, more today than I ever have since he unexpectedly and sadly passed away from the effects of lung cancer and emphysema on January 23, 1999, while I was still on Rikers Island waiting to be sent upstate to serve my time for my robbery convictions.
I do my very best to live the right way these days, and only wish my father was around for me to love and help take care of.
As for my past addictions to alcohol, drugs and gambling, I am now clean & sober for six years and 29 days, and continue to get so much satisfaction out of passing the message of recovery onto those who are still sick and suffering.
I know that, even though I may not be responsible for my disease, I certainly am in charge of my recovery, and will always make remaining free from alcohol, drugs and gambling a top priority in my life.
Enough about me, though!
I only write my blog in order to help others, and hope that by revealing so much about myself, including many of my innermost thoughts, I can light a spark under you, my readers, to not only avoid some of the same mistakes and negative things I experienced in life, but to also live each and every single day of yours in the best possible fashion.
So, if giving thanks on that one special day of the year that society chooses to label it works for you, then by all means, stick with it.
As for me, I will have gratitude in my heart all year round, and know that all of us have greatness within that enables anything to become a reality if we apply ourselves and be thankful 24/7/365.
Thanks for reading!
As for myself, I really don't need society telling me that November 28, 2013 - or any other day for that matter - is when I should be thankful for everything that I have in life.
Simply put, I wake up each and every single day full of gratitude for my health, my family and friends, and just to be alive, especially considering all that I have experienced as a result of my past addictions and risky behaviors over the years.
I would gladly give up one ear, hand or foot to be able to go back in time and change some things from my past, but of course, as a realist, I understand that is just not possible.
I miss my beloved late father, Irving Goldstein, more today than I ever have since he unexpectedly and sadly passed away from the effects of lung cancer and emphysema on January 23, 1999, while I was still on Rikers Island waiting to be sent upstate to serve my time for my robbery convictions.
I do my very best to live the right way these days, and only wish my father was around for me to love and help take care of.
As for my past addictions to alcohol, drugs and gambling, I am now clean & sober for six years and 29 days, and continue to get so much satisfaction out of passing the message of recovery onto those who are still sick and suffering.
I know that, even though I may not be responsible for my disease, I certainly am in charge of my recovery, and will always make remaining free from alcohol, drugs and gambling a top priority in my life.
Enough about me, though!
I only write my blog in order to help others, and hope that by revealing so much about myself, including many of my innermost thoughts, I can light a spark under you, my readers, to not only avoid some of the same mistakes and negative things I experienced in life, but to also live each and every single day of yours in the best possible fashion.
So, if giving thanks on that one special day of the year that society chooses to label it works for you, then by all means, stick with it.
As for me, I will have gratitude in my heart all year round, and know that all of us have greatness within that enables anything to become a reality if we apply ourselves and be thankful 24/7/365.
Thanks for reading!
Happy New Year 2014!
It's hard to believe, but another year has come and gone!
For me, personally, I have continued to remain clean & sober, and been proud to pass the message of recovery onto those who are still sick and suffering, or simply not living with enough self-esteem or self-confidence in order to reach their full potential.
I make no secrets about the fact that for many years - decades, actually - I was simply going through the motions in life, rather than living each day with a purpose.
However, after being released from prison in 2004 and getting my book, "Jew in Jail" published, I now wake up each and every single morning with gratitude and fulfillment, proud of how far I have come, yet knowing there is still much more to be done.
I have learned that true happiness is derived not from material possessions such as money, cars or jewelry, but by peace of mind, goodwill towards others, and love of family and friends.
For 2014, I hope to be blessed with even more opportunities to spread the message of recovery from addiction and keep motivating and inspiring others, no matter what difficulties they are experiencing, either via my blog, book, or in person at the various venues I am asked to attend.
What does the new year have in store for you?
Hopefully, 2014 will be the greatest year of your life, as you surround yourself with positive, loving people, who help make you the best person you were born to be!
After all, you are definitely worth it!
If you haven't read my book, "Jew in Jail" yet, I strongly urge you to do so.
http://ning.it/Lk20hZ
It tells the story of how I was finally able to decide to turn my life around from my past addictions to alcohol, drugs and gambling, under the worst conditions imaginable of being a minority behind bars.
In addition, I also invite all of you to check out this speech I delivered in October of 2012 to a group of inmates who graduated from a drug program at a jail in Richmond, Virginia, to demonstrate that, regardless of one's past, it is possible to overcome any difficulty and go on to lead a productive, positive and successful life.
http://youtu.be/dE4DFCbXRF4
For me, personally, I have continued to remain clean & sober, and been proud to pass the message of recovery onto those who are still sick and suffering, or simply not living with enough self-esteem or self-confidence in order to reach their full potential.
I make no secrets about the fact that for many years - decades, actually - I was simply going through the motions in life, rather than living each day with a purpose.
However, after being released from prison in 2004 and getting my book, "Jew in Jail" published, I now wake up each and every single morning with gratitude and fulfillment, proud of how far I have come, yet knowing there is still much more to be done.
I have learned that true happiness is derived not from material possessions such as money, cars or jewelry, but by peace of mind, goodwill towards others, and love of family and friends.
For 2014, I hope to be blessed with even more opportunities to spread the message of recovery from addiction and keep motivating and inspiring others, no matter what difficulties they are experiencing, either via my blog, book, or in person at the various venues I am asked to attend.
What does the new year have in store for you?
Hopefully, 2014 will be the greatest year of your life, as you surround yourself with positive, loving people, who help make you the best person you were born to be!
After all, you are definitely worth it!
If you haven't read my book, "Jew in Jail" yet, I strongly urge you to do so.
http://ning.it/Lk20hZ
It tells the story of how I was finally able to decide to turn my life around from my past addictions to alcohol, drugs and gambling, under the worst conditions imaginable of being a minority behind bars.
In addition, I also invite all of you to check out this speech I delivered in October of 2012 to a group of inmates who graduated from a drug program at a jail in Richmond, Virginia, to demonstrate that, regardless of one's past, it is possible to overcome any difficulty and go on to lead a productive, positive and successful life.
http://youtu.be/dE4DFCbXRF4
Enjoy Yourself In A Responsible Way!
Now that the warmer weather has finally arrived and we all survived such a harsh winter, the tendency is for us as human beings to think we need to hurry up and cram good times into as many days as possible, before the temperatures dip back down again.
I, for one, love the summer, but forever need to remember that it was always my favorite time of the year to drink and do drugs.
There is just something about being able to leave my house and walk outside without a shirt on and just wear shorts to go to the beach, play ball, or simply hang out with friends.
I felt liberated – after a long winter – to be able to enjoy myself knowing that the days were longer and I could lay in the sun to get a tan.
However, my addiction would always turn what I thought was going to be fun into something worse.
Fights, arrests, gambling problems, and other negative consequences were the result of thinking I “deserved” to have fun during these warm months of the year without any regard of the outcome.
Nowadays, fun takes on a whole new meaning, since I am clean nearly six and a half years.
Responsibility, dependability, reliability, and trustworthiness are just some of the positive characteristics that I take pride in, and combined with my desire to help other recovering addicts, or anyone not living up to their full potential, is what motivates me each and every single day, rain or shine!
I don’t begrudge anyone who drinks socially, and just hope it doesn’t interfere with their normal, everyday life.
Nor do I have a problem with any person who works hard for a living, pays his or her taxes, and is a positive role model in the community.
In a perfect world, men and women who are successful would have sense enough to help those who are less fortunate than they are.
For when they do, we all feel better about ourselves!
Enjoy this great weather everyone, and if you ever feel the need to talk about something that is on your mind, know that I am just a click away!
I, for one, love the summer, but forever need to remember that it was always my favorite time of the year to drink and do drugs.
There is just something about being able to leave my house and walk outside without a shirt on and just wear shorts to go to the beach, play ball, or simply hang out with friends.
I felt liberated – after a long winter – to be able to enjoy myself knowing that the days were longer and I could lay in the sun to get a tan.
However, my addiction would always turn what I thought was going to be fun into something worse.
Fights, arrests, gambling problems, and other negative consequences were the result of thinking I “deserved” to have fun during these warm months of the year without any regard of the outcome.
Nowadays, fun takes on a whole new meaning, since I am clean nearly six and a half years.
Responsibility, dependability, reliability, and trustworthiness are just some of the positive characteristics that I take pride in, and combined with my desire to help other recovering addicts, or anyone not living up to their full potential, is what motivates me each and every single day, rain or shine!
I don’t begrudge anyone who drinks socially, and just hope it doesn’t interfere with their normal, everyday life.
Nor do I have a problem with any person who works hard for a living, pays his or her taxes, and is a positive role model in the community.
In a perfect world, men and women who are successful would have sense enough to help those who are less fortunate than they are.
For when they do, we all feel better about ourselves!
Enjoy this great weather everyone, and if you ever feel the need to talk about something that is on your mind, know that I am just a click away!
Six & A Half Years Clean!
It seems like only yesterday I was celebrating two years free from alcohol and drugs, since time goes by so quickly for me when I am clean and sober!
I woke up this morning with six and a half years now clean, and to say it feels good would be a major understatement.
When I go to deliver a motivational & inspirational speech at drug treatment programs, jails, schools, and other venues, one of my favorite lines to demonstrate how far I have come in life is this: “I have been to hell and back so many times that the post office started forwarding my mail there without requiring a change of address form filled out first!”
While this, of course, is not literally true, it does represent how badly my life had become when I was actively drinking and taking drugs.
I destroyed my career in broadcast journalism, ruined relationships with family and friends, harmed my physical health, and managed to get locked up behind bars for nearly six long years, all because I was living with such low self-esteem and didn’t care enough about myself as a human being.
It wasn’t until October 31, 2007 that I finally decided to turn my life around, once and for all, and voluntarily walked into the Coney Island Hospital Chemical Dependency Program in my hometown of Brooklyn, New York, and asked for help.
I had to swallow my pride and admit that my addiction was more powerful than I am, but I can say today that it was one of the best decisions I have ever made.
However, although I have now been clean and sober for these six and a half years, I am also well aware of the fact that true recovery is more than just abstaining from the use of alcohol, drugs, or any other mind-altering substance.
Recovery includes repairing one’s negative character defects, which, in my particular case, means refraining from having a temper, thinking that I am better than everyone else, being selfish and only out for myself, isolating, instead of spending time with others, cursing, littering, and just not acting in a professional manner in general.
In this respect, my recovery is a lifelong process, and helps keep me grounded on a daily basis.
Furthermore, by sharing my story and helping spread the message of recovery, it provides unlimited amounts of positive self-esteem, both for myself and others, which is a win-win situation for everyone involved.
I don’t know what the future holds for me, but I do know several things.
Firstly, I am definitely not the same person I was for many years of my life, which I am very proud to say.
Secondly, I refuse to dwell on the past, on what my life could have been, had I not become an alcoholic and drug addict, since that is not only water under the bridge, but would serve no useful purpose either.
Finally, I feel good knowing that I am waking up each and every morning clean and sober, ONE DAY AT A TIME, and have people in my life who trust me and value my opinion on things.
It’s all about self-esteem and feeling worthy of another human’s love that fuels my desire to be the best person I can possibly be.
We only go through life once, and for this former alcoholic and drug addict, doing it right is what it’s all about!
I woke up this morning with six and a half years now clean, and to say it feels good would be a major understatement.
When I go to deliver a motivational & inspirational speech at drug treatment programs, jails, schools, and other venues, one of my favorite lines to demonstrate how far I have come in life is this: “I have been to hell and back so many times that the post office started forwarding my mail there without requiring a change of address form filled out first!”
While this, of course, is not literally true, it does represent how badly my life had become when I was actively drinking and taking drugs.
I destroyed my career in broadcast journalism, ruined relationships with family and friends, harmed my physical health, and managed to get locked up behind bars for nearly six long years, all because I was living with such low self-esteem and didn’t care enough about myself as a human being.
It wasn’t until October 31, 2007 that I finally decided to turn my life around, once and for all, and voluntarily walked into the Coney Island Hospital Chemical Dependency Program in my hometown of Brooklyn, New York, and asked for help.
I had to swallow my pride and admit that my addiction was more powerful than I am, but I can say today that it was one of the best decisions I have ever made.
However, although I have now been clean and sober for these six and a half years, I am also well aware of the fact that true recovery is more than just abstaining from the use of alcohol, drugs, or any other mind-altering substance.
Recovery includes repairing one’s negative character defects, which, in my particular case, means refraining from having a temper, thinking that I am better than everyone else, being selfish and only out for myself, isolating, instead of spending time with others, cursing, littering, and just not acting in a professional manner in general.
In this respect, my recovery is a lifelong process, and helps keep me grounded on a daily basis.
Furthermore, by sharing my story and helping spread the message of recovery, it provides unlimited amounts of positive self-esteem, both for myself and others, which is a win-win situation for everyone involved.
I don’t know what the future holds for me, but I do know several things.
Firstly, I am definitely not the same person I was for many years of my life, which I am very proud to say.
Secondly, I refuse to dwell on the past, on what my life could have been, had I not become an alcoholic and drug addict, since that is not only water under the bridge, but would serve no useful purpose either.
Finally, I feel good knowing that I am waking up each and every morning clean and sober, ONE DAY AT A TIME, and have people in my life who trust me and value my opinion on things.
It’s all about self-esteem and feeling worthy of another human’s love that fuels my desire to be the best person I can possibly be.
We only go through life once, and for this former alcoholic and drug addict, doing it right is what it’s all about!
Sharing Is Caring!
I had a great time on Tuesday night, May 27th, at the Brooklyn Heights branch of the Brooklyn Public Library, as I spoke about my book, “Jew in Jail,” and recovery from addiction.
I appreciate everyone who came out to hear me discuss my past, hopes for the future, and how I do my very best each day to help others battling the disease of addiction.
The questions were right on the money, and the support and love I felt were tremendous.
Obviously, since I cannot change what took place in the past, the best I can do these days is share my experiences and provide insights on what it takes to remain clean and sober in order to live a fruitful life, filled with self-esteem and self-confidence.
I look forward to speaking again, either at the library, a school, drug treatment program, hospital detox, jail, or anywhere I can be of value to others.
Until next time, take care, and start to enjoy this beautiful weather that has been a long time coming!
I appreciate everyone who came out to hear me discuss my past, hopes for the future, and how I do my very best each day to help others battling the disease of addiction.
The questions were right on the money, and the support and love I felt were tremendous.
Obviously, since I cannot change what took place in the past, the best I can do these days is share my experiences and provide insights on what it takes to remain clean and sober in order to live a fruitful life, filled with self-esteem and self-confidence.
I look forward to speaking again, either at the library, a school, drug treatment program, hospital detox, jail, or anywhere I can be of value to others.
Until next time, take care, and start to enjoy this beautiful weather that has been a long time coming!
