Yesterday was the anniversary of my best friend’s sobriety birthday – his 19th year of living the blessings of recovery. And, while he’ll remain anonymous here -those who know me know who I’m talking about.

This man is a great example of the power of the 12-step programs and their effect upon those who apply the principles in their lives.

When I met him in April of 1992 he was at the end of a 27 year run of drinking and shooting speed. He had a long criminal history. He’d been to prison more than once, for serious crimes associated with the drug underworld.

In many ways, my friend was like any other addict who first shows up at the doors of TLC. He had no resources and not much to look forward to except maybe more crime, prison, and the hopeless downward spiral of drug use.

However, he had a burning intensity about him that many of us don’t have when we first show up. He was looking for answers, for ways to stop the pain and hopelessness that was his life. Somehow, through the haze of withdrawal, he began grabbing on to the offerings of the 12-step programs and the basic guidance we offer at TLC.

Eventually, he became one of the leaders of TLC, a man who developed the Hard Six program and many of the policies and procedures that help clients stay sober today. He’s enjoying the fruits of sobriety and lives in a world that many seek but are unable to find.

He’s blessed to work in a field where he’s able to help others change their lives – and stay sober in the process.

Happy 19, my friend. ..