Simply, Grateful!

As I approach the end of my contract period with NCCDP, I have a chance to reflect on the past five years of my recovery, and how resentment and forgiveness have played roles in my sobriety. Initially, I was resentful toward NCCDP for what I felt were intrusions on my life for the requirements of monitoring, testing, attending meetings, and submitting reports. Would they never end? However, I slowly began to realize that my partnership with NCCDP was keeping me sober and allowing me to continue to practice as a hygienist. As this realization continued to grow, so did my gratefulness toward NCCDP. My strict adherence to the NCCDP requirements has contributed significantly to my recovery.

My recovery got off to a pretty rocky start in 2018, when I was angry and resentful, but I can say with a clear head and heart, that as I type this article, I have been sober for 5 years. At times, I wasn’t sure that I could continue on with the program, when meeting the NCCDP requirements felt like a second job. But with the support of my family, friends, and NCCDP, my sobriety became my primary focus. At this stage, I am grateful for those who have provided help and encouragement throughout the years. First, I am most grateful every day of my life for my family, without their support I feel that I would not be where I am today. Second, Bill and Lauren have been very patient with me and the NCCDP is the reason that I can continue the career that I love so much.

In conclusion, it is easy to get caught up with the pace of everyday life and overlook how grateful I should be. It is easier to overlook my resentments and forgive everyone. Stay the course and keep the faith.

An Appreciative Recovering Dental Hygienist