After all they've quit drinking. They no longer smoke or shoot their drug of choice. They've quit staying up all night. They're eating regular meals. What more could the world ask?
Most of us got sober to stop the pain. To get the stress and anxiety out of our lives. To quit going to jail. To get off the streets. To get our families off our back. Once we do that we're pretty okay.
But many, particular those no longer in their twenties, carry scars. They've contracted hepatitis C or developed other health problems. Some smoke incessantly. Their immune systems are fragile from years of abuse. They don't exercise or eat right.
Soon this poor lifestyle catches up with them. Some clients gain 30 or 40 pounds. Others develop emphysema or high blood pressure.
My counsel is to do everything possible to stay healthy. To enjoy the benefits and blessings of sober living - to the fullest.
We should treat our bodies as the temple of the spirit. We've been given a second chance. And we should do what we can to enjoy the rest of our lives.
