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Writer's pictureMitchell O'Brien

A Pain In The Neck




I'm gettin' old man. My life has been pretty great lately. This is due to having a great support system and many importanté life lessons I picked up in therapy during my recovery journey. But, I tend to over-commit myself sometimes. When this happens I sacrifice rest/sleep time so I can still connect with friends or give myself some much-needed me-time.


Anyone who's followed my publications here will know that I'm all about that balance in life, and it can be a struggle at times. Like juggling a bowling pin, a flaming torch, and a chainsaw all at once. So last night I decided I was going to bed an hour early and sleeping in an hour later than I have been lately. I woke up this morning feeling well-rested and refreshed. But, I had this awful crick in my neck.



This made me think about life for a second. How even when life can be going well, we can experience pains in the neck that aren't foreseen or controllable. And just like my annoying neck pain today, these things can pop up while doing things that are good for you. In my case today, getting enough sleep.


My neck pain is like a stand-up comedian – it always knows how to deliver a good punchline.” —Unknown

Now, I have a choice. I can let this pain eat at me and hold me back, or, I can face it and take action. I chose to pop a Motrin and do some stretches. This whole situation can be an analogy for many things in life, and the reality for people like me (in recovery from substance use disorder) is that a lot of little pains in the neck can add up to a relapse-threatening amount of stress.


So, when life throws you a pain in the neck, don't let it add up. Do what you need to at the moment and control the things you can. Any more than that and we lose that serenity.


Until next time.





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