One of the biggest surprises in my recovery journey has been this simple truth: helping others helps me stay sober and grounded.
Early on, I thought recovery was something I had to do alone—white-knuckle it, keep my head down, focus only on myself. And while there is a time to be inward and protective of your healing, I’ve learned that recovery doesn’t thrive in isolation. It grows in connection.
Connection Keeps Me Honest
When I listen to someone else who’s struggling—really listen, without judgment—I’m reminded of where I came from. I hear pieces of my own story in their words. The fear. The shame. The exhaustion of trying to hold it together. And instead of triggering me, it humbles me. It keeps me honest. It keeps me grateful.
Helping others doesn’t mean having all the answers. Most of the time, it just means showing up. Saying, “I get it,” or “You’re not crazy,” or “You’re not alone in this.” Sometimes it’s sharing what worked for me. Other times it’s just sitting with someone in the mess and letting them know there’s still hope—even if they can’t see it yet.
I Feel for the Ones Still Struggling
I have a deep sympathy for those who are still struggling. I know how dark it can get. I know what it’s like to want help but not know how to ask for it—or to be afraid of what help might require. There’s no judgment here. Just compassion. Because I was there once. And on some days, I still feel close enough to remember every detail.
Hope Is Real (Even When It Feels Far Away)
My hope—my prayer—is that those who are still hurting find the courage to reach out. That they find the right people, the right support, the right moment where something finally clicks and they realize they don’t have to do this alone.
Recovery is possible. Change is possible. Life on the other side is worth fighting for.
Helping others doesn’t make me stronger than them. It reminds me that we’re equals— just at different points on the same road. And every time I offer hope to someone else, I reinforce it in myself.
That’s the beauty of recovery: when it’s shared, it multiplies.
If you’re struggling right now: please reach out to someone you trust, a sponsor, a counselor, a pastor, or a local support group. You don’t have to carry this alone.
— Josh Bridges
YOU {R} NOT ALONE YOU HAVE A VOICE! 