The start of 2023 was a quiet one for me, my partner, and my fur herd. As usual, my circle of friends and loved ones expressed their resolutions for better health- and of course, everyone started new diets and exercise plans. I couldn’t judge. Middle-age is definitely a wake up call. So, in true herd mentality style, I went along for the ride. ‘Sober January’ seemed like an easy enough choice for betterment. It’s only a month, right? It’s the ice cream I can’t put down.
During one of my weekly scrolls and emoji posts down FaceBook Lane, I was surprised to learn that a few of my friends had posted they’d taken the step into permanent sobriety in the hopes for a better, saner quality of life. I was shocked to learn one acquaintance had even started a 12 step program. Not only did this person make the amazing choice to get help- they bravely announced it for the world to see. I’ve never shared my own birthday online (without a fight anyway)- let alone a selfie.
I reached out to my friend, and what I learned was eye opening. Functional alcoholism is real, and the rollercoaster they/their family had endured had been a doozy. Sober January suddenly seemed so trivial in comparison. If this person could give up alcohol for life, the least I could do is make it a full month without complaining about it. And maybe put down the Twix bar occasionally. And maybe do a sit-up or two. And maybe call a friend just to ask how they are.
Learning to take my ever-changing world in stride and with grace is not a cakewalk. It is a big goal of mine. Less stuff, more living. Make a measurable difference and a sustainable change. Work out with weights. Eat better. Floss. I have missed my relaxing glass of sauv-blanc on the porch with the dogs at sunset. I have longed to savor the occasional sancerre while practicing my music. It is almost the end of January and I’ve already planned the when and where of my eminent departure from the wagon in February along with a giant steak and some form of dark chocolate decadence. Or maybe I can wait just a liiiittle bit longer…
For all of you fellow middle-aged wine lovers out there that have embarked on the Sober January journey with me- you’ve got this. For others- their decision to be sober isn’t an easy one. It is the first step in a life long commitment that is a continual struggle. They’ve made a choice to stick with it for the long haul and try to make it work. And for that, I salute them.
Harp, Wine, and K9's 