firsthand reposted this
1️⃣2️⃣ Today marks a milestone for my personal recovery journey, that just so happens to fall on Independence Day. This July 4th, I celebrate 12 years of independence from drugs, alcohol, and self harm! Yesterday I was able to facilitate a meaningful #seriousfun activity with my firsthand team that I used to do in early recovery at my first 'real' job as a tech at a women's rehab. Every July 4th, we'd tie dye some t-shirts and talk about how we're making something beautiful out of nothing. A blank canvas being splashed with the colors we chose. Some knew what they were doing, most didn't have a plan, but they always turned out awesome 🎨 I centered the activity on the idea that - "You don't find yourself, you create yourself" It struck me in that first year of recovery, that hiding didn't give me an excuse to act lost. I must finally show up. Fear was slowly replaced with freedom. I realized that I truly did get to choose what I wanted to be like. I started to notice the positive qualities in others that inspired me, and I was reminded that those same qualities already existed in me, otherwise I wouldn't have even noticed them. I began to surround myself with supportive and healthy role models, leaving no space for anything less. If I wanted to keep good friends, I had to be a good friend. If I wanted healthy relationships I had to grow up. If I wanted to inspire others one day, I desperately needed to become teachable, accept some hard truths about myself, and be vulnerable. I've learned a lot. And as time goes by, I realize I know very little. I have so much gratitude for the role models who've shown up in my life both personally and professionally. If you've read this far, I'd love to know your favorite inspirational quote or team building activity 💜