Recovery. Sobriety. Living Wise.
Dear Erin, I had a strange dream the other night and it got me thinking about you and your one-year-old Sam, and the meaning of fatherhood. The dream poked me in the eye and reminded me of a remarkable moment we shared when you were growing up. I often settle myself into sleep by recalling happy thoughts of our time together: shooting hoops in the back … Continue reading A Letter to Erin
“When so many are lonely as seem to be lonely, it would be inexcusably selfish to be lonely alone.” ~ Tennessee Williams This is a hard reflection for me to share because it calls to mind my times of deep loneliness. I had people to whom I was related in thought and action, but few people to whom I was truly connected in heart and … Continue reading Curing Loneliness
I celebrated my 32nd sober birthday on June 14. On this day each year I take a pause to reflect on who I am, where I came from, and what I’ve become. It’s not a day for “attaboys” or self congratulatory talk. On the contrary, it’s a day I remember that years are only accumulated days, single moments aggregated over time. For me sober … Continue reading A Thought on Turning 32
On November 7, 2016 songwriter and poet Leonard Cohen died. Earlier, before his passing, Joe Nagy, regular contributor to Just a Thought, penned this wonderful tribute. We share it with you again. I have just finished reading a biography of the Canadian poet and singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen. He has accumulated about every award you can get in his profession: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, … Continue reading Tribute to Leonard Cohen (by Joe)
I wonder sometimes what kind of friend I am. Will I show up when it really counts? What effort am I really ready to make to sustain a friendship? Am I just a fair weather friend? Then I came upon this story. Two men, both seriously ill, occupied the same hospital room. One man was allowed to sit up in his bed for an … Continue reading Why Is Encouragement So Powerful?