Scott's Path to Sobriety: A Journey of Near-Death, Meditation, and Community
For everyone equally, if we follow them, they work. So this isn't a question of whether it can work or not. But the system is not always easy for everyone that comes in, and I think it was easy for me.
Ever wondered what it takes to turn your life around after hitting rock bottom? Scott's story might give you some answers. In this episode of the Boiled Owl AA Recovery Podcast, hosts Don and Sam chat with Scott, who got sober at the age of 24 in Houston, Texas. His journey wasn't a straight line; it was more like a rollercoaster with some terrifying drops.
Scott's cocaine use spiraled into alcoholism, and he found himself on the brink of death not once, but twice. It was during his second close call that he finally reached out for help. Scott's sobriety date is April 1st, 1987, and his home group is Common Solution in Durham, North Carolina. He talks openly about the ups and downs of his recovery journey, from attending the Hot 'n Dry roundup to serving in Crystal Meth Anonymous.
One of the standout moments in this episode is Scott's discussion on racial and gender equity in recovery fellowships. It's a topic that's often overlooked but incredibly important. Another highlight is Scott's take on mindfulness meditation. He admits he was skeptical at first, despite his sponsors urging him to try it for over a decade. When he finally committed, it was a game-changer. Scott shares how meditation has become a cornerstone of his recovery, helping him maintain balance and focus.
Scott also dives into the importance of adapting recovery programs to meet the needs of younger individuals. He believes that culture and language play a significant role in how effective these programs can be. Plus, he touches on how his mother's good insurance played a crucial role in his recovery journey—a reminder of how privilege can impact one's path to sobriety. The episode wraps up with a discussion on community involvement in AA.
Scott emphasizes that being useful in the AA community gives individuals a sense of purpose and self-esteem. This episode is packed with insights and personal anecdotes that make it both inspiring and informative for anyone interested in recovery.