The key element is identifying when those you choose to surround yourself with are more of a hazard to your progress than help. Naturally, parting ways and moving forward is the next step. Staying sober is a extremely selfish thing when sliced and examined under a microscope. It requires a significant amount discipline and the ability to be a prick from time to time.

The interesting thing is that I don't need to stay sober, but even growing up and having the life I want has meant doing this. Over the last few years I've realized that some of my closest friendships were toxic and I needed to get rid of them. It used to be more painful, not so much anymore.

One friend I 'let go' this winter had been my friend since I was in grade 12. I realized she was a very "nice" person who was not very kind. She had this mask that took me a lot of years to see through, for many years I wondered why I had this odd feeling when I had certain encounters with her.

I think part of growing up, having a good life, means making decisions that others might not like but that will be better for my life. It's just more serious and more of a risk, if you don't, when you are trying to stay sober.

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I realized she was a very "nice" person who was not very kind.

Ah, I've met a few of them over the years myself. You're absolutely right though, exorcising demons and ccleaning the cupboards from time to time is essential for healthy living on any level.

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damn straight.

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he's lucky to have a friend like you to come to for guidance and support. i have no idea what it's like to go through what your friend is living right now, but i suspect it's invaluable to have someone to talk to who's been there.

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He's been confiding in me for quite some time now. It's nice to finally see his plan in motion.

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Where the heartache begins: When the realization that those you hold near and dear are more concerned with self-gratification than your best interests, the heart has a tendency to hurt a little

hopefully the heartache ends when we realize and are able to love ourselves

then it is often easier to find people who are not only concerned with self-gratification; but instead each others interests and passions and happiness

glad you are posting again.

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I appreciate that. While the crap I feel the need to write about is the same story in many senses, I once again am finding the need to share it.

We had a very similar exchange yesterday. I advised getting comfortable in his skin before seeking a new partner. The clinical time frame is a year...who am I to argue?!

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i can't really add much to what's already been said here in the comments except i agree. also...i love that picture of the jd bottle.

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it seemed fitting in so many ways.

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