r/MadeMeSmile • u/a_clown_with_a_piano • Aug 15 '21
2 Months Drug Free. First Pic Was The Day I Got Released From The Psych Ward - Second Is Today. Personal Win
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u/NANNY-NEGLEY Aug 15 '21
Danny Trejo has a book out that you might like. It's probably in your lical library but you might have to get on a wait list for it. "Trejo: My Life of Crime, Redemption, and Hollywood" I'm an old lady who's been reading for almost 70 years and this was the first bio that I wish were longer.
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u/a_clown_with_a_piano Aug 15 '21
I’ve never heard of it but I love a good novel! Thanks for the suggestion!
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u/AnniMalia Aug 15 '21
I'd like to recommend a book called Atomic habits - an easy & proven way to build good habits and break bad ones, by James Clear. Not a novel, obv, but it helped me getting my shit together a year ago.
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u/forwhatandwhen Aug 16 '21
You know, I barely read. Ive have extreme habitual impulse problem since I was younger and ive always just replaced old habits with new, worse habit. I Barely have the money right now but I went ahead and got this as an ebook only going off of my trust in you. I sincerely hope it can help me like it helped you.
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u/jamtart99 Aug 15 '21
Check out r/suggestmeabook if you have t already OP. The good folks there have suggestions for all types of books, and all sorts of books relating to times when you need help. You got this my friend. I’m 100% sure.
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u/ashellbell Aug 15 '21
Do you read eBooks?
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u/a_clown_with_a_piano Aug 15 '21
I prefer hardcopies, something about turning the pages is very familiar and comforting.
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u/SeductiveSoup Aug 15 '21
Hardcopies will always be king. Like you said, turning the pages is just too good.
On the topic of great books I think everyone should read in their lives, Tuesdays With Morrie is, in my opinion, one of the best books ever.
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u/llisovskis Aug 15 '21
Excellent work, my dude. Your eyes look so much brighter! I hope you can enjoy all of your moods and embrace your feels even when they aren’t happy. So much appreciation for your share 💫
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u/a_clown_with_a_piano Aug 15 '21
It’s always in the eyes man. Thank you!
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u/KrazyKateLady420 Aug 15 '21
Came here to say “there’s life behind your eyes again!” 💙 please, take it from someone older who wishes they could turn back the clock on some of the things I did and how long I waited to put in the work to get better - you have your whole entire life ahead of you!! And nothing is permanent, good or bad. No matter how bad things could feel it’s always temporary. “This, too, shall pass.” That said the love we have for ourselves is a steady constant in uncertain times.
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u/[deleted] Aug 15 '21 edited Aug 15 '21
There's a notable change man! That's great. Keep going.
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u/a_clown_with_a_piano Aug 15 '21
Thank you my friend!
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u/altxatu Aug 15 '21
Good for you! Getting and staying clean is a difficult thing to do, no matter how long it’s for.
For all my family in the throws of addiction that can’t/don’t want to get clean. I’m rooting for you. You can do this. It’s always darkest before the dawn. Just hold on, because you got this.
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u/Stories_for_days Aug 15 '21
Hey dude I’m proud of you. Post again soon I know you are going to succeed. I believe in you!
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u/Dragonfly21804 Aug 15 '21
Great Job! I love seeing posts like this. You give so many others hope. Keep up the great work, one day at a time. ❤️
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u/Wolvesinmen Aug 15 '21
And I’m two months. Honestly dude, keep following this road it suits you 👍🇦🇺
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u/PeaceTrain33 Aug 15 '21
I don’t know you, but I am DAMN proud of you!
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u/a_clown_with_a_piano Aug 15 '21
I live a pretty lonely life, but all of these comments have made me feel a little bit less alone. Thank you so much!
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u/PeaceTrain33 Aug 15 '21
Hang in there pal - focus on your recovery best you can, you have A LOT of friends here rooting for ya!
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u/MARKAZ08 Aug 15 '21
Brilliant mate, you have definitely been down there so the only way now is up.. massive thumbs up to you. 👍
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u/a_clown_with_a_piano Aug 15 '21
Thanks man! Like most addicts I had to hit the bottom of the bottomless pit before I could get better. Only way out is through I guess.
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u/Infinite-Furiosa Aug 15 '21
Same thing happened to my father. So glad you are better. The big difference I see is in your eyes!
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u/a_clown_with_a_piano Aug 15 '21
Sorry to hear about your dad. My mom is an alcoholic and always has been so I can relate to both sides of the fence - wouldn’t wish either on anyone. Thanks for your kind words, take care!
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u/nomoanya Aug 15 '21
Hey OP— I just want to congratulate you. Please remember that your sobriety will have a positive ripple effect on your life. I was married to someone who didn’t deal with their addiction early enough and consequently we had to end a 15 year relationship. That’s the tip of the iceberg, but I’ve been thinking a lot about the sort of hidden cost of addiction that they don’t tell you about. I’m so proud of you. Dealing with it is so difficult. You are a beautiful soul who deserves to not be bound by it. Take care!
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u/gingerfawx Aug 15 '21
Right? They're pretty eyes, it's nice to see more life in them.
Good job, OP! Keep up the good work!
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u/Lier-Lier Aug 15 '21
This is the way. Keep going strong.
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u/a_clown_with_a_piano Aug 15 '21
Thanks man!
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u/beluuuuuuga Aug 15 '21
Stuff like this really helps me overcome my own struggles so I thank you for sharing this with us.
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u/a_clown_with_a_piano Aug 15 '21
Whatever you’re going through I wish you all the best my friend. Take care.
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u/highrankin88 Aug 15 '21
That's some steely determination bro, all the very best to you - keep the fight up! 🤜🤛
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u/thedadfromJumanji Aug 15 '21
You don't know me, and we'll never meet. But please trust me when I say you are not alone. Don't give up. I believe in you ❤
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u/steviesnap Aug 15 '21
Youre doing amazingly and i am super happy for you, I hope youre really proud!
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u/a_clown_with_a_piano Aug 15 '21
Thank you! It’s been an uphill battle but ultimately very rewarding. Take care!
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u/Sam_The_Dino Aug 15 '21
You look awesome! I can tell you look happier and healthier, especially in the second pic! I have family who deals with these issues, so I know it's easier said than done to have come this far. You're doing fantastic so far, I hope that things only continue to get better! Keep on trucking, you got this! 👍😄
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u/a_clown_with_a_piano Aug 15 '21
Thank you! At the time I took the first picture it felt like my life was over. 2 months and a lot of battles later I feel like I’ve regained it. Take care!
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u/eyzhaveit Aug 15 '21
I see a handsome kid with his whole life ahead of him!
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u/a_clown_with_a_piano Aug 15 '21
Thank you! Very fortunate to have gotten out when I did. I probably would’ve died by now if I’d kept it up. now I have most of my 20’s ahead of me!
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u/MARKAZ08 Aug 15 '21
Sounds like you are on the way. It's all about the support and your strength. Stay strong 💪
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u/xuwugirluwux Aug 15 '21
As a worker at a psych ward this gives me hope. I see so many returns but never the successes. Thank you for the smile today.
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u/a_clown_with_a_piano Aug 15 '21
As someone who has struggled with severe mental health issues my whole life, I would like to thank you personally on behalf of all of us crazies. I was in and out probably 7 or 8 times in the past several years and I always found the patience and kindness of (most of) the staff very impressive. Thank you!
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u/beNiis Aug 15 '21
Even though you are not smiling I can see the happiness change in your face! Amazing!!
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u/a_clown_with_a_piano Aug 15 '21
Thank you! I’m not a very smiley person, but it’s all in the eyes.
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u/fullonsasquatch Aug 15 '21
You've gotten through like the hardest part!!!! Amazing!!!! Be so so so proud of yourself!!
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u/vantrap Aug 15 '21
Congratulations you total CHAMPION!!! 🏆
Sobriety is the best gift you can give yourself. I’m proud of you buddy! Keep going!!
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u/GGinNC Aug 15 '21
When you're climbing a mountain, every day can feel like you're just staring at the same rocks. That's why it's good to turn around once in a while to take in the view. Congratulations on a couple of months!
Bookmark this feeling. You'll have challenges and setbacks along the way and it's easy to minimize your victories when you're feeling bruised. Days like today are a good way to combat it. One day at a time. One step at a time. We believe in you.
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u/a_clown_with_a_piano Aug 15 '21
Thank you for such a thoughtful reply. I’ve never heard that analogy before but boy is it spot on. One day at time 🙏
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u/Inquisitive_infinite Aug 15 '21
Well done! You look healthier my friend, I'm happy for you! Keep going brother, onwards and upwards! We are rooting for you ❤
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u/nebulasoupp Aug 15 '21
You’ve got this! I believe in you! And this is a reminder that every day you live without drugs is a great and brilliant day with endless possibilities :)!
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u/a_clown_with_a_piano Aug 15 '21
Hey guys! The support from this sub has been overwhelming, I appreciate you all so much. So many of you have left such sincere and heartfelt comments, I wish I could reply to them all but I can’t keep up with how quickly they’re coming in - I just want you all to know that I’m so grateful for your kindness.
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u/kekiyor Aug 15 '21
Good job, Internet buddy! Remember, a small progress is still a progress. Keep up the good work!
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u/a_clown_with_a_piano Aug 15 '21
I don’t really subscribe to the 12 step lifestyle but “one day at a time” really is the key. Thank you man!
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u/gancoskhan Aug 15 '21
Dude, you look so much better. Congratulations. One of that hardest things people can do.
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u/a_clown_with_a_piano Aug 15 '21
Thanks man! It’s an uphill battle for sure, but every day I’m reminded of how lucky I am to have made it out.
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u/kae_luna Aug 15 '21
Wow! You look great!
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u/a_clown_with_a_piano Aug 15 '21
Turns out an exclusive diet of booze, hard drugs and cigarettes isn’t the best for ones appearance, who woulda thought? Lol. Thanks so much man!
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u/downtune79 Aug 15 '21
Yo that's amazing!! Keep it up. I just hit 6 years in May, so if you ever need to chat just hit me up. This is a hard road but so worth it. I'm sure everyone around you is proud......hell, I'm proud of you mate! You can do it!!
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u/a_clown_with_a_piano Aug 15 '21
6 years is a long time! Thank you very much, and congratulations yourself!
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u/downtune79 Aug 15 '21
It still seems like yesterday when I got help. I still dream about going to the trap every once in a while but I ALWAYS wake up just before I bang. It's an achievement what you've done so far and that pride you feel will just continue to get stronger. You never realize how bad it is until you stop. It's nothing but up from here my friend, keep moving forward and surround yourself with people that encourage you to do the right things. Seriously hit me up if you ever need to.
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u/NefariousnessKey329 Aug 15 '21
There’s some life behind those eyes in the second pic! A for sure noticeable different keep it up king.
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u/balance_detail Aug 15 '21
You are beautiful handsome young man! Use your talents and your gifts that you are born with to enjoy every single day and to help other people!
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u/a_clown_with_a_piano Aug 15 '21
Thank you! I’ve spent enough time dying to know that life is worth living.
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u/bespokefolds Aug 15 '21
Dude! Those two months have made you look younger, nicer, and way hotter. Good job on the sobriety and if you ever need someone to gas you up, dm me
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u/[deleted] Aug 15 '21
Awesome! You can be so proud of yourself! I you can do it :-)
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u/a_clown_with_a_piano Aug 15 '21
Thank you :)
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u/[deleted] Aug 15 '21
You look a lot friendlier and vivid on the 2nd photo :-) how do you keep yourself motivated to keep going?
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u/a_clown_with_a_piano Aug 15 '21
I would say it comes from a place of not wanting to inflict pain on my family. Destroying yourself is one thing, dragging everyone down with you is another.
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u/[deleted] Aug 15 '21
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u/a_clown_with_a_piano Aug 15 '21
They’re definitely happy to have me back. I just can’t stand the thought of my little brother finding out his big bro had overdosed and died. I’m going to be 21 in a couple months.
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u/Resident_Calendar_54 Aug 15 '21
Keep it up! You’re doing great and this random internet stranger is proud of you.
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u/zachdouble Aug 15 '21
I’m happy that you’re doing well!!
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u/a_clown_with_a_piano Aug 15 '21
Me too! I certainly never wish to feel as I did that day ever again. Thanks for your kind words :)
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u/ZookeepergameOk4966 Aug 15 '21
I see more honesty behind your eyes in that second pic. Keep up the good work and stay humble.
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u/Competitive-Ad9032 Aug 15 '21
Best of luck in your new sober life! You deserve to be happy!
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u/Icy-Relationship Aug 15 '21
It's a long road lil brother, stay steady
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u/a_clown_with_a_piano Aug 15 '21
I’ve attended a handful of AA/NA meeting in my life and I’ve always been blown away by the sheer tenacity of those who have been clean for a long time. A long road is right by the sound of it, but one im very much willing to walk. Thank you!
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u/Remarkable-Ganache49 Aug 15 '21
Your eyes have life behind them now, beautiful. Keep kicking ass, healing and growing. Great work on the new path 💜
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u/blairescar Aug 15 '21
Wow! Keep going. I think it's safe to say that this subreddit community is rooting for you! ♥️
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u/Stingy_Barky Aug 15 '21
Well done bro. You’re doing well and truly amazing. Keep it up.
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u/Canitgetmuchworse Aug 15 '21
Very proud of you and hope you are proud of yourself. Stay healthy! ❤
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u/junoray1968 Aug 15 '21
I know it's hard but the one thing to remember go to your meetings and get a sponsor and remember to stay away from play mates and play grounds you can do it I have faith in you
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u/gillyyak Aug 15 '21
You got this, my friend. My son is now 18 months sober, and you can do that, too.
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u/ek4rd Aug 15 '21
Well i am naiv when it comes to those things. A good positive focus on your future journey. Please don’t destroy yourself with drugs.
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u/stumbledumper Aug 15 '21
Proud of you man! You look like you’re making great progress!
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u/chelle-v Aug 15 '21
I'm inspired by this. Been struggling myself and need to get my shit together. Congratulations on 2 months, that's not easy to do!
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u/english-doyouspeakit Aug 15 '21
You look immensely healthier today. Imagine how you'll be two months from now! Keep it up, you have our support 💪
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u/nicehappythingstime Aug 15 '21
Good for you friend! You're looking good and I hope you're feeling good too.
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u/untapped-bEnergy Aug 15 '21
Congrats man keep on it! Im almost 11 years sober from meth and heroin and it gets easier!
Even though I don't know you im fucking proud of ya
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u/a_clown_with_a_piano Aug 15 '21
Congrats on your sobriety! I’m always so impressed and inspired by folks like you!
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u/wishitwouldrainaus Aug 15 '21
My lovely young man, you definitely look healthier. Thats a big one. I can only hope you can find just a little something to bring a smile to your eyes. I spent so long 'getting better' according to the docs. The hardest thing was finding a little joy in life. Over many stages. Its just a fuckin crawl sometimes. That had nought to do with the docs, that was just me. Wards were very different in the 70/80's, the drugs too.. I wish the best for you, you deserve it. Dont give up youngun. Life is, hopefully, a marathon, not a sprint. I'm an old Aussie Nan. Been there, done that. Institutes included. If you need to talk, don't hesitate.
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u/Ch4ron-the-ferryman Aug 15 '21
Bro! You are strong as steel! I don't imagine that it'll ever be easy, I'll imagine it'll be worth it! Live your life!
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u/Brinksan51 Aug 15 '21 edited Aug 15 '21
You’re going to kill it my friend. Life is all about choices and you just made the best choice of your life. I’m 70 years old and just yesterday I had a celebration of life for my very best friend of 60 years. We grew up together, we went to school together, we partied together, we lived together, got hired and fired together in our teens, vacationed together, golfed together, fished together. We met at ten years old playing army in the woods. I had a Mattel Fanner 50 cap gun, and Lats, that’s my friends name, had a Pop gun and a Devil Dog. Now, that Pop gun was cool! Lats wanted to trade that Pop gun, and the Devil Dog, for my Fanner 50! Which I did, and we split that Devil Dog!! Now, I had an older brother David, who was 9 years older than me. He was absolutely the best brother, son, father, husband, worker, but most important, friend!! Friend!!! But, when you actually had a friend that lived 2 minutes away from each other for 30 years,and 25 minutes away for the last 30 years, except for a few months, and it’s only then, can you realize how lucky I was to have had this friend. Dave was born in 1942, and less that a year later, my Dad was in the Army culminating in Omaha Beach on D-Day, and onward. My brother Dave got out of the military in 1963. I was 12 years old. Dave was nicknamed “Cool Breeze” by his military buddies because he was always like a breath of fresh air when ever he was around. Well, he was the same person all his life. I never saw him angry. I never heard him utter any thing disrespectful about anyone! Ever! So anyway, Dave took an instant liking to Lats, and much the same with Lats to Dave. We’d all watch late night horror movies on black and white TV on Friday night. “Chillerama”, that was the name of one of the shows. Now keep in mind here, there were only 5 tv channels at that time. It’s all relevant! Dave would take us to the Outdoor movies. He’d let us drink beer and lift up the mat on the passenger side of his 1959 Saab, with the suicide doors, and piss out a hole in the floorboard. Now how fuckin’ cool is that? We’re 14 and hanging out with my 23 year old brother who just happens to be the most chill and coolest guy.
So let’s fast forward to my brother Dave. “Coolbreeze”. It’s 1975 and Lats was in Florida. Dave, had suddenly not felt well and, in a matter of 2 days, had gone from going for ex ray, to biopsy, to coma. I called Lats. I said 4 words. “Cool Breeze is dying”! Lats immediately replied with 4 words. “I’m on my way”. That was it. An 8 word conversation! 5 hours later, during one of the darkest times of my life, my friend was at my side. If you are fortunate enough to have one such friend, a true friend. A friend that you wouldn’t have to call if you found yourself in jail, he’d probably be sittin’ right next to ya’!! David passed away less than 24 hours after Lats arrived. He left behind a wife and 2 daughters one of whom was murder by some nut job, of which there seem to be no end!!!! You need a friend. If I can lose one, you can find one. “The road to a friends house is never long”. I wish you the very best, and so does “Cool Breeze” and Lats! Take care and be safe.
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u/InvadingBacon Aug 15 '21
Fuck off with this "free from drugs / alcohol for X days" BS posts. Karma farming bots hitting hard
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u/TranquilEssence Aug 15 '21
Why would this make me smile? It doesn't.
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u/roll-tarheels Aug 15 '21
It’s because anything with drugs, suicide, depression, etc in the title gets immediately upvoted. These type of posts are all the same. OP fishing for karma
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u/iamonthatloud Aug 15 '21
I think the support and positive comments is what he’s “fishing” for. And there’s nothing wrong with that.
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u/internalcontrols Aug 15 '21
Stay strong little brother