Damn, Kirk, thank you for sharing all that (several years ago, apparently...). I also went away to "college" too, but fortunately it was just a few weeks. It took a long time and the immeasurable help and support from my parents to get back on track. I am always in awe of those who spent a longer time away and are able to do the same.
Oh, I was glad to do it then and a little surprised to see this get bumped a full 5 years later but every single word I posted in this thread is just as true today as it was when I posted it 5 years ago.
After being doxxed by some people I thought were my friends I probably would avoid making posts these days, but I won't go back and edit any of this because it's all public information now, even my employer knows my full history and they're 100% supportive. If any good came out of the doxxing, that was it. For the longest time my employer finding out about my history was my biggest fear. Getting doxxed the way I did forced me to go to them and explain my personal history. I don't think I've ever seen so many jaws hit the floor at one time. To say the least, I don't present as someone who spent all those years in that situation so they were absolutely shocked by it, but they all took at as ancient history and to prove that they were serious about it, I've been promoted 3 times since sharing it with them.
Another nugget of wisdom I've received just by being 57 years old: The truth really does set you free.
Yeah, while I have similar fears about my recovery coming out, the benefits far outweigh them. Others shared their stories, and when I needed help those 9 or so years ago, I knew who to reach out to. Similarly, by sharing mine, people reached out to me when they were in trouble, and are sober this day. Being in a position to possible save a life far outweighs the fear of exposure to me.
Plus, in my line of work, alcoholics/addicts are commonplace, so being open about recovery lets your employer know you'll show up after payday, and won't rail into their liquor stash late at night
Topic: Asking for advice from the DTF's old(er) members. (Read 4080 times)
