On September 25, 2021, I had my last drink and drug. I look back on the broken person I was before that day and feel proud of myself for confronting what seemed to be such a daunting, painful journey ahead. What I soon came to realize was that the painful journey would actually end that day. It was finally over, the crushing weight of my own solitude had been lifted by surrendering. I came home to myself, full of wounds that began to heal from that day on. I was slowly able to look in the mirror again and see someone I wanted to recognize. I now have a name for this journey, and it is called recovery. To me, recovery is finding and rebuilding myself. Recovery is forgiveness, humility, and raw emotions. It is the most worthwhile discomfort I hope to ever experience. I rest assured knowing that the hardships I may experience throughout recovery will never compare to the pain I inflicted on myself and others while in active addiction. Recovery to me is being grateful that I never have to drink again, and helping other addicts achieve sobriety along the way. This is all achievable through my higher power, sober community, and spiritual twelve step program. I can hardly believe I am now able to begin graduate school as a sober woman and serve others battling addiction. Thank you for reading about my experience.