This may sound like a no-brainer, but in my opinion and my experience, it is not so easy finding THE right community. I have tried different approaches, but none has been so successful like my most recent attempt, which, actually, I was getting into couple of weeks ago, but only now I actually realized the benefits:

I’m talking about the community I am engaging in (it’s called “RED – Recovery Deutschland”), and primarily it’s a community to support and promote the “Recovery Walk” in Germany. (https://www.recoverydeutschland.org). The basic idea is a get together of likeminded people (people in recovery, having had to do with drinking or other substance abuse or sober-curious people,…)

This is exactly the bunch of people I was looking for, because it’s not so much focused on your every day battle and hassle with not drinking anymore (sounds familiar?). The thing is, the people I have met so far (mainly video calls, but there are “physical” meetings a well) are so authentic and share the same ideals. Of course, other communities do so, as well. But I haven’t found such a place… until now.

And that makes me so happy. I could walk around grinning like the Cheshire Cat, because I am so happy about the exchange today only. Initially it was only about the home page and organizational stuff, but we talked a bit more and the exchange was so refreshing, because people understand your struggles and they have their own (so, we all have a different Core, which makes the exchange so lively and dynamic). The great thing is that we all engage with the same goal and that is so empowering. Because at the same time, everyone might feel down or not capable, but I have the feeling I would fall safely and softly, because everybody understands the hassle Recovery comes along with. I finally feel understood without the pity.

I am not quite sure if everyone can and will relate, but I think this is far the best thing that happened to me in my sobriety efforts since leaving the Pink Cloud, because it feels so meaningful. And it will certainly enforce my sobriety.

Until next time, take one step at a time and keep up the faith in yourself. It’s worth it!!!