So, it's the day before New Year's Eve here in New Zealand.
Life continues on with very little thought for the pandemic that continues to ravage the rest of the world. In fact, I'm headed into the centre of the city today to collect my youngest son from managed isolation. That's where we hold everyone who is coming back into the country for 14 days until the authorities are sure that they are clear of covid.
I haven't seen my youngest son for over three years. He's been living in London and Europe. The pandemic hit hard in London and he (pretty much) hasn't been out of his flat since March this year. To see him today will be such a blessing for so many reasons.
But for him, it will be a radical change in his lifestyle.
I guess that's what giving up drinking is for most people--well it was for me.
My son will adjust, as I adjusted to living without alcohol. One day at a time, one moment at a time, we come to see that the change (sometimes forced upon us) is the best thing in the end, even though it may feel like the worst thing at the start.
If you're struggling today, I'm with you.
Just for today, you don't have to drink.
Just for the next hour you don't have to drink.
Just for the next 15 minutes you don't have to drink.
Whatever gets you through...that's what matters.
Today I'm grateful for my son's safe return to my family.
I will not drink with you today.
Love Toni x
Photo by Nate Hovee from Pexels