Self-validation…

Through the labor that I am performing today in recovery I am learning how to feel right about myself. I am discovering that I do not need to look to others to validate my feelings or my actions. When I am upset or serene it is because of something that I am doing, not what others do around me. When I succeed or fail it is because of the work that I have done, not the judgments of those in my presence. When I do not know the answer or feel unsure about my path I ask for help, either from my God or a person wiser than myself. I am beginning to love myself and therefore able to love everyone else. I understand that many people do not yet have these gifts . For them I reserve my compassion, love, and patience. I pray that those without may find a similar peace.

These are the terms with which I live.
This is life on life’s terms.

Johnnyboy

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Johnnyboy

Johnnyboy is a queer recovering alcoholic. For the moment he is also the primary caregiver for his mother, who suffers from age-related cognitive impairment. She is happy as a lark and is surrounded by a crew of sober women which gives him the freedom he needs to get out of town. When he is not at home in Somewheresville, he is searching out the proper path to travel for happiness and joy. He is a photographer who believes in the digital age, but feels that film is still where its at. He has a darkroom and works in it. He is single and is in remarkably great physical condition for all the damage he has submitted his body to. His cardiologist is very happy. Johnnyboy is over the age of 35.