The Journey is a Mountain…

Six months alcohol-free… If you’d told me this time last year that I’d be here, I probably would’ve laughed and poured another glass of wine. But here I am, and let me tell you, it feels like standing on a mountain, looking out over everything I’ve climbed through to get here, as well as looking forward, toward that beautiful path ahead.

Self-reflection on this journey has become my compass, my pause on the trail to check in and make sure I’m heading in the direction I really want to go.  

This alcohol-free journey has been a lot like hiking up a mountain. Some days, the trail feels steep, and I’m out of breath. Other days, I’m cruising and marveling at the view. And in those quiet moments when I stop to look back, I see how far I’ve come—and wow, it’s so worth it.  

Reflection is where the magic happens. It’s where I ask myself, “Am I living in line with my values? Am I moving toward the life I truly want?” And here’s the best part: the person I’ve always wanted to be? She’s not some faraway stranger. She’s me in the making, right now, learning and growing with every step.  

If you’re on this journey, too, take a moment to stop and soak in the view. Look back at the progress you’ve made—every step counts, even the small ones. The mountain may be big, but you’re climbing it, and that’s incredible.  

As I sit here and pause at the top of this 6 month mountain, as I look back I see so many challenges I have overcome. Those troughs and steep downs have made me stronger. I also see the wins, so many small peaks, such as events I have attended sober for the first time, or the sunrises I have seen that I wouldn’t have if I was drinking. 

As I turn the other direction and look forward, I see my first big sober party (a fancy Scottish Ball) in the near distance—I can’t wait to experience it! I see my first sober Christmas, and I feel the anticipation, excitement… and a little anxiety. I am excited to see what challenges and changes I experience in the next 6 months and beyond.

• What are 2 things you see from the top of your mountain, reflecting on your journey? 

• What are 2 things you see as you turn around and look in the other direction, looking forward at the beautiful journey ahead?

The path isn’t always easy, but the view just keeps getting better. Let’s keep climbing together. 🏔✨