Freedom from Addiction

Freedom: the power or right to act, speak, or think as one wants without hindrance or restraint. ​

I asked a few people to tell me about what "freedom from addiction" means to them. Their responses were simple yet poignant, seemingly small but powerful. 

“I have freedom in relationships. [Before I was sober] I couldn’t be counted on for anything. I would say I was going to do something, but in the end I wouldn’t follow through because I would have to get dope. Now I have freedom to make my own schedule and be reliable.” 

“I have freedom to enjoy a concert. I can go, listen to the music, enjoy it and remember it.” 

“I have freedom from being scared when I see a cop behind me. If a police officer pulls me over, I can confidently allow them to search my car. They will see the basketball and shoes in my back seat.” 

“I have freedom to carry money. In the past every time I had went to my bills and to dope. I never shopped because if I wanted that shirt it would just take away my dope money. Now I have freedom to spend my money on things like ice cream for my girls.” 

“I have freedom to own and care for a pet.” 

“I have freedom from probation. I’m not tied down to a curfew or to paying fines.” 

“I have freedom from worry of what others will think of me. When I was using, if something would come up missing, I felt I had to prove that I didn’t take it. Now I don’t have to worry about people’s expectations and assumptions about me.” 

“I have freedom with my time. I can do what I want because I’m not constantly thinking about getting my dope.” 

“I have freedom with my parents. They trust me now. I can stay in their house without them there now and they know that nothing will come up missing besides food.” 

What could freedom from addiction mean to you?