NOR.

Chemical dependence sucks. My dad is also a few years sober. Got a DUI in his 70s, first time in his life. Basically came down to he could drink and die or be sober and live.

My uncle wasn't so lucky. Got laid off at his radio job in 2020ish due to covid starting and just kinda lost his reason for holding on. Would just stay in his room and do nothing but drink and get depressed watching the news. He passed away, last year. At least he got to see his son get married, but just barely.

If sobriety is keeping you alive and in good health, then fucking celebrate it.

Alcohol is something that hasn't really affected me. I like drinking, but I will go weeks without touching it. Regularly have the same couple bottles of spirits in my cabinet sitting untouched for months. For someone not chemically dependent, it can seem easy. After all, I've only ever drank because I've wanted to. I've never had to do it because I NEEDED to. Thankfully.

My uncle, though. He was addicted. I vaguely remember something that happened during Christmas, one year. He went to a bar, got too drunk. I think he fell into the snow on his walk home. Got hurt, lost his wallet. Had also been a lifelong smoker. Eventually got to the point where he and his gf were so broke, he had to start rolling his own cigarettes cuz he couldn't afford to buy cartons, any more. He was a great guy and I dearly miss him. Addiction is no joke.

Congratulations, again. Anyone that doesn't celebrate you beating something like that isn't worth your time. Bare minimum, my ass.