Soaking Up The Light

Summer has a certain rhythm that reminds me to slow down, breathe deeply, and lean into the flow of life—what I’ve come to recognize as my Higher Power. The longer days and warmer nights feel like a gift: time to reflect, time to connect, and time to simply be.

There was a time in my life when I wasn’t even allowed to leave the county, let alone the country. My world was small, full of chaos and consequences. Freedom—real freedom—felt like something other people got to experience. Eleven years into recovery, travel has become a summer tradition, not an escape. I’ve made memories in Costa Rica, Greece, Mexico, Hawaii—and most recently, Jamaica. Today, I go because I can celebrate life, not because I’m running from something.

These moments of sunshine and self-care are sacred. They’re proof that recovery works—that we recover not just from using, but from the hopelessness that once defined me. Today, I build memories, not regrets. Each trip, each sunset, each belly laugh is a reminder that I’m living, not just surviving.

Summer also gives us more time for fellowship. Longer days mean more meetings, beach hangouts, and gatherings with people who get it. There’s healing in that connection—and joy in our shared freedom.

So wherever you are this summer—on a plane, in a park, or simply soaking up the sun in your own way—take a moment to celebrate how far you’ve come. This life, this freedom, this season of light… we earned it. And we get to share it.