I was watching “A Christmas Carol” with the family and realized I have a lot in common with Scrooge, except instead of money, my vice was alcohol.
Like Ebenezer, my life took a drastic turn one night when I faced three ghosts.
I reviewed my past, reflected on my present, and looked to my future, and in doing so, I saw that booze wasn’t serving me any longer; I was a slave to it.
This night of reflection wasn't an easy journey.
I had to face the traumas of my past, directly addressing the painful moments, and no longer seeking to numb them.
I looked at the present lost opportunities, moments of regret, and people I’d hurt.
I confronted the possibility of what would happen if I continued my ways and how it would deteriorate my mind until, ultimately, I lost myself and those I love.
I have made amends for my past actions by choosing to live a sober and happy life.
Much like how Scrooge's transformation spread joy and positivity to those around him for the rest of his days, I, too, have decided to dedicate the remainder of my journey to living a present life. I’ve chosen to use my journey to sobriety as a source of inspiration and hope for others struggling with alcohol addiction.
Looking over the things I’ve done was not an easy ask, and neither was discovering why I’d turned to alcohol in the first place. It was hard, and yet that is why it worked; doing easy things never begets substantial changes. Hard things leave lasting results, and like Scrooge looking over where he’d been, where he was, and where things were going…It slaps you in the face that you are and have always been in control over your life. There’s nothing noble about doubling down on our commitment to that which has consumed you; only in reclaiming control can you regain a sense of purpose and immersion in the world around you, which brings both purpose and peace.
No matter how difficult things may seem, change is always possible. Like Scrooge, I have been given a second chance at life, and I am determined to make the most of it.
And just like him, I have discovered that the past does not define us. It is the choices we make in the present that truly matter.
- Zac Small