Embracing Our Quirks

A Reflection on Love and Sobriety

As many of you know, self-publishing a book comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. One of the most significant benefits is the ability to make updates and changes where necessary. However, after recently navigating some unforeseen edits, I'm committed to making this an infrequent occurrence. That being said, a particular sentence in Chapter 30, titled "Marriage With a Twist of Humor and Humility," has been gnawing at me: "I love Clay with all his quirks."

While it's true that I adore Clay and all his unique characteristics, I realize that my wording was incomplete. It should have been more inclusive, reflecting the shared journey we've both embarked on in sobriety. After all, it's not just Clay who has his quirks; we both carry the weight of authenticity, idiosyncrasies, and the myriad oddities that accompany living in recovery. We are imperfect humans navigating life; I must express that more clearly.

When I first met Clay at an AA meeting, I was freshly out of a toxic, sober relationship. I was healing, but honestly, I had no intention of dating. My heart was slightly broken, and my direction was firmly on my recovery. But sometimes, life has other plans. There he was—this intriguing individual who would soon become an integral part of my life. As he amusingly says, "Boy met a girl on AA campus, where the odds are good, but the goods are odd."

And isn't that the truth? Our journey together has been anything but traditional. The quirks that define us—those foibles and unusual behaviors—make our relationship vibrant. I love 'us' for all our mutual quirks that work so well together.

So here's my amendment: In acknowledging my love for Clay, I also want to celebrate the complexities of our shared sobriety. We both have our flaws, but it's within those imperfections that the beauty of our relationship lies. We are learning, growing, and, yes, sometimes blundering together.

As I move forward with my writing—and life—it's essential for me to embrace these truths. I want to confirm that my words reflect not just my love for Clay but the love we share as a couple, navigating our individual and unique path in sobriety.

Together, we are not perfect, but we are perfectly us. And that's something frankly worth celebrating.