My journey is one of chasing greatness at all costs. I was a History teacher and for 20 years I chased being the greatest teacher I could possibly be. To cope with the growing stresses of the profession, my crumbling marriage (I put teaching in front of everything) I started drinking nightly, add some “chill pills” and get up the next day and do it again. I was selected “Golden Award” teacher…finally!!! But I was drinking and drugging before, going home at lunch and blackout addict. A motorcycle crash that almost killed me. Stints in jail, treatment, rehab, more jail, getting fired from the profession that I gave my life for. Losing my home, my marriage, my kids, almost my family…..all gone. I went again to detox and decided to go to another city for a 28 day treatment. It was there I connected with people like me, addiction robbing us of everything but our life. I found a program, I graduated from the treatment center. I landed a job at a factory and I’m starting to rebuild my life. Putting the demons behind me. I’m 319 days sober and I’ve never been happier. Everyday is a blessing and a chance to live, contribute, laugh and love. Putting the past behind me and not feeling guilty or ashamed about it.