Choices

Hello everyone

I just returned from yet another trip to Los Angeles for business and a speaking engagement near Oakland.

I was thinking of what to title this entry and the word CHOICES came to mind. The reason for this is simple, if I did not make the choice to stop using drugs on April 15, 1993 I would have nothing in my life today that currently exists. There would be no family, education, health, Racing for Recovery or spirituality. I would simply be a lost soul complaining and angry about how my life is. The simple fact is this, make a choice to stop using drugs = GOOD LIFE make a choice to use drugs = BAD LIFE.

We had our inaugural Racing for Recovery 5k in Las Vegas on Oct 13 for 176 people. It was amazing to see one of our signature events happen out there and the impact that was made was tremendous. Thanks Steve for being our go to guy and making this possible.

The 6th Annual Racing for Recovery 5k, 10k held in my hometown of Sylvania, Ohio was last Sunday Oct 21 and once again we had over 300 finishers. I am proud of my daughter Skylar who ran the entire 5k and I was with her every step of the way. My other daughter Madison participated in the kids race. We had people from from MN, NJ, NY, PA, IN, MI, WV, CA and of course Ohio. Our message is making a difference in people and this philosophy of a holistic approach to recovery that does not include 12 steps is awesome and beneficial.

Recently I actually received my diploma for completing a Master of Counseling Degree. I did not go through commencement as I was in Los Angeles at the time but I must say finally having that piece of paper in my possession was rewarding. It was one of those moments that I was actually proud of myself and again was reminded "With Sobriety Anything is Possible" I am going to take my exam in December to be a certified chemical dependency counselor as well and on the same day speak for the Ohio Supreme Court for the 2nd time. I am contemplating pursuing a doctorate in psychology but not for a year.

To those who are struggling with an addiction, I hope you read this and take note that a good life exists and you are worthy of it. Sobriety can be achieved and a program and support system of your choice can be utilized to achieve it. For the family and friends of the addicted person, please do not give up HOPE and understand you are there to help them when they help themselves.

I am home for a week then it is off to New Hampshire, New Jersey and Chicago for speaking gigs. I love doing this.

Happy Halloween

TC