The Time Would’ve Passed Anyway

The other night I went to pick up my daughter at the high school around 11pm, and ended up sitting there waiting for almost half an hour.

The breeze was gentle, the leaves were dancing in the glow of the almost-full moon, and I noticed something simple but profound: I wasn’t in a hurry.

As I sat there, I couldn’t help but think about how different this moment would’ve looked a few years ago.

Drinking me would not have wanted to do an 11pm pick up. I would’ve either asked my other daughter to do the pickup because I’d already been drinking…

or I would’ve sat there irritated, anxious, and impatient - mad that I was stuck waiting while my wine was waiting at home.

Or worse yet… and I’m ashamed to admit this but I know others will silently nod in agreement and ‘get it’… I would’ve brought a small cup of wine with me. Telling myself it wasn’t a big deal, it’s only a mile drive… but knowing deep down that it was in fact a huge deal and a terrible thing. 

But - thankfully - this night was different. 

I just sat there and breathed it all in.

The peace. The quiet. The simple beauty of a normal Saturday night.

And I felt tears in my eyes; not from sadness, but from gratitude.

Grateful that I’m here. 

Grateful that I chose this life.

Grateful to be sober and free, and so much happier than I ever was as a drinker.

It took time to get here, yes.

But the truth is: the time would’ve passed anyway.

And I’m endlessly thankful I’ve spent it walking toward peace,
rather than pouring glass after glass of regret.

xx-

Shannon 🖤