18 Comments

Love this. I’m deep in the navel-gazing, reading, and journaling part of early sobriety, and have been neglected my garden as a result. Seems this is probably the perfect place for me to get re-inspired to get out there and pull some weeds.

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I know I read this at one point early in my substack reading days, but it seems I didn't tell you how much I love your stacks of books! Under the Influence by James Milam and Katherine Ketcham was a life changer for me. I went out to interview Dr. Milam's then wife, Doris, at their recovery center. This was for a job for King County in my early twenties profiling services throughout the greater Puget Sound area. Doris refused to answer my printed questions, but instead walked me through the wards and did what I later learned to be sharing experience, strength and hope. I couldn't wait to get away because I needed my lunchtime drink. Instead, I threw up in the parking lot, turned around, returned to her office and said, "Um, I think I might have a problem." Then went on to tell her why I didn't. Fifty years later, of course, I know she saw everything on the face, body, and soul of the child I was. Not longer after that, after attending a few of Dr. Milam's free Saturday lectures, I found supportive groups of other young people. What a gift sober life has been for me. So glad to read about yours.

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Apr 2, 2023Liked by Susie Middleton

Freshly minted 2 years of sobriety. I can relate to this so well.

Congrats on your achievement, and thanks for spreading this message.

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thank you for sharing your tender vulnerable wise heart with us. (and thank you for sharing the term 'the commonplace book' - i adore this so much.) i have several alcoholics in my family. and my oldest brother, is now in end stage liver failure because of it. i landed here because of elissa and feel so grateful to find your words. they are medicine for my aching heart. xo

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Feb 19, 2023·edited Feb 19, 2023Liked by Susie Middleton

All I can say is thank you for this today, what a vulnerable and grounded piece. To see your sobriety notebook entries and to learn of the term commonplace book is a great gift in my life today. I will think of you when I begin my own! Thank you for the time and effort it takes to inspire us with your words ~ it is so much appreciated. I love the photos of your books, what an incredible insight into your journey!

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❤️

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Feb 19, 2023Liked by Susie Middleton

Once again, you’ve moved me deeply with your honesty, courage and open hearted writing. Thank you. Now your wise words will go into what I realize is my own commonplace book...❤️

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Wonderful, enlightening essay. Thank you. 🙏🏻❤️

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