I told my husband when I started my podcast that if my pain could help even one person, I would have achieved what I set out to do. With every message I receive from listeners in recovery—whether from alcoholism, stroke, or mental health challenges—he reminds me, "You’ve reached your goal again." (I know, he’s adorable!)

It’s important for me to always remember my purpose. It keeps me motivated and hopeful on the days when I question what all this pain is for. Despite the odds, I’m still here, and my voice was given back to me after losing it during my stroke, when I couldn’t form the words I was thinking.

I’ve come to realize that my goals are the right size for me now. A few years ago, my aspirations revolved around being praised and distinguished. Accepting my disability was the first step toward understanding my role as a human being among human beings. It’s taken hard work to appreciate subtle progress and to recognize the gifts of recovery.

I no longer strive to be the best, only to crawl under the covers with a swig of wine. My years of wishful thinking were steeped in absolute fear. Now, instead of wishing for what I want, I work toward what is possible.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts and YouTube.

Visit my Etsy shop, Recovery Upcycling. https://www.etsy.com/shop/RecoveryUpcycling

Visit me at ⁠⁠⁠recoverydailypodcast.com⁠⁠⁠ or email me at ⁠rachel@recoverydailypodcast.com⁠.

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