Michael Hughes

Growing up with an alcoholic father I had vowed to never drink. Seems that genetics had other things in store for me. My life was a constant haze and I remember thinking about when I could get that next drink to satisy my urge. It was sheer madness. Trying to function while also feeding an addiction was the hardest part for me. Also during this time, huge amounts of guilt and lack of self worth. I had grown up in Alateen and knew the literature of the AA program. I had watched my dad stay sober for 15 years and then relapse only to die a prisoner to his addiction. I knew I had to be different. I knew that I had to stop in order to have the life I thought I deserved.

I woke up one day and realized I was at risk of losing everything. My girlfriend, my kids, the trust and faith from my family, my job even. It was then, I let go and let God. I started looking at each day and tried to survive for those 24 hours. I started going to meetings, I swallowed my pride and started working the 12 steps. My life started to change. I was happier, more productive, more responsible... I was growing up at 36 years old. I got married, had a daughter, a son, a wife that loved and supported me. I did it for myself, but my family played a role in that decision also.

I could not be happier. My life is not perfect and it is certainly one day at a time. My life has slowed down significantly since moving to the mountains of Colorado. My time now is spent working, fishing, and spending time with my family, who I am so thankful for. It's finally the life I wanted to have at 43 years old. I say, better late than never as I couldve been killed so many times due to blackouts and driving under the influence. I finally grew up, accepted my addiction and started living the life I had always wanted. One.Day.At.A.Time.