Recovery means an active change in attitudes and ideas, and ultimately actions. With almost 8 years clean, I still find that life is full of opportunities for learning, and I am finally willing and able to take advantage of them. Recovery has given me the confidence and self-respect that I have always wished I had. It has also put me in a position to be successful and view my past as a source of hope and strength, rather than a weakness or source of shame. The most important thing that I have learned in recovery is that I have to continue to give my experience where it is needed in order for me to keep my vitality in recovery. My life is a demonstration of that mentality evident in the amount of service I do at local organizations, within my 12 step fellowship and beyond. Lastly, recovery means that I get to be the mother that my daughter deserves. I can provide her needs, and be present and mindful to watch her grow and develop. I have something very valuable to offer as a parent and as a human being. I look forward to all the things life has to offer as I stay clean one day at a time.