One Year In: Choosing Steady Over Perfect
One Year In: Choosing Steady Over Perfect
One year ago today, I chose sobriety.
Not because everything was falling apart in a dramatic way — but because I knew, quietly and deeply, that something had to change. I didn’t need a louder life. I needed a truer one.
That choice didn’t fix everything overnight. But it did something far more important: it gave me clarity.
What This Year Taught Me
2025 taught me that healing is not loud. Growth isn’t flashy. And real change rarely announces itself.
This year asked me for:
- honesty instead of avoidance
- steadiness instead of urgency
- restraint instead of reaction
It asked me to slow down enough to actually listen — to God, to my body, and to the life I was building.
This year held more than one kind of surrender.
Sobriety wasn’t the only beginning — it unfolded alongside counseling, medication, new responsibilities, unexpected diagnoses, financial pressure, work that stretched me, and a faith that was rebuilt even while I was grieving someone who helped lead me back to God.
I didn’t walk through this year untouched. But I didn’t walk through it alone.
What I Had to Let Go
Along the way, I stopped chasing relief and started choosing responsibility.
I let go of:
- forcing timing when something wasn’t ready
- fixing symptoms instead of addressing roots
- confusing movement with progress
Sobriety stripped away the noise. What was left was truth — and the grace to face it.
Where I’m Headed Now
As I step into 2026, I’m not chasing perfection. I’m choosing faithfulness.
This next season is about:
- steady steps
- quiet obedience
- consistency that leaves room for grace
I’m learning that God often works in the ordinary. In routines. In repetition. In showing up again — even when it feels small.
A Promise I’m Carrying Forward
Today marks one full year sober. And with it, a promise I intend to keep.
I promise:
- to be gentle with myself
- to keep walking honestly
- to trust God more than my own urgency
One day at a time. One step at a time.
Still learning. Still healing. Still grateful.
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
— Psalm 34:18
