Category: Journal

  • Patience, Patience, Patience

    Patience, Patience, Patience

    6.3.25 Patience is a virtue, but it’s also a pain in the ass. I’m learning patience — and like with most things, I find it much easier to show patience with others than with myself. Lately, I’ve been recognizing the moments where I extend grace to people in situations that the old me wouldn’t have Read more

  • Self-Compassion

    Self-Compassion

    6.2.25 Ironically, self-compassion isn’t even in the dictionary. I had to look up the definition of compassion instead: “sympathetic consciousness of others’ distress together with a desire to alleviate it.” Psychologist Kristin Neff defines self-compassion as being made up of three key elements: self-kindness, common humanity, and mindfulness. Book club was wonderful as always. I Read more

  • Panic Attack

    Panic Attack

    6.1.25 Today was a hard one. I had my first full-blown panic attack since starting recovery. Yesterday, while I was with my sponsor, we talked about plans for the weekend. I mentioned that my best friend’s daughter’s bridal shower was today. She reminded me that emotional milestones—like finishing Step Five—can be triggers. She offered to Read more

  • Steps Four And Five

    Steps Four And Five

    5.31.25 I finished my Fifth Step today with my sponsor. The experience was truly sublime. I came prepared—with spreadsheets, printouts, lists, and notes. You name it, I thought of it. Organization helps me feel in control, especially when diving into something as personal and emotionally charged as this. Against my nature, I refrained from bringing Read more