Episode 403 – Hello Universe   Many Today we have Pat.   He is 38, from Georgia, and he took his last drink on February 22, 2022.   Events:  https://recoveryelevator.com/events Exact Nature:  https://exactnature.com/re20   Highlights from Paul   The opposite of addiction is connection. Near-death experiences often connect us to a higher power and make us question where we go after we die. In today’s episode, Paul shares his views on spirituality and connecting with a higher power.   Addiction disconnects us from the external world and from within. Paul reminds us we are not alone:  we are connected to every living on the planet. Love, connection, inclusivity, and wholeness.   Better Help:  www.betterhelp.com/elevator - 10% off your first month. #sponsored                                                                               [13:14]  Pat got sober on 2/22/22 and planned his sobriety date as a military child who has lived in many places. He is married, loves archery, plays guitar, writes music, and sells hearing aids.      Pat began experimenting with alcohol at 15. He learned in college he could drink a lot. He was frequently the last one standing. Initially, he drank to get a buzz. He avoided eating to enhance his buzz. In college, he got a DUI.   Pat drank to feel normal. He never had a true rock bottom moment.    In 2020, Pat stopped drinking for six months, knowing he and his wife wanted to conceive. He switched from whiskey to beer. Quickly it snuck back into his life.    Pat’s wife began going to Al-Anon. He burned the ships on social media and garnered support from friends and family. After a physical, he had some bad results, including elevated liver enzymes. He was encouraged to go to inpatient rehab.   He ultimately tapered. His doctor prescribed medications to help him overcome anxiety. The first two weeks of detox were painful.   After the physical challenges dissipated, things became much more manageable. His family and friends supported him. He realizes he doesn’t need alcohol to get through the highs and lows of everyday life.   The RE podcast, audiobooks, and the Café RE Facebook group are his favorite recovery tools, and he is excited that he and his wife are expecting their first child.   [49:20] Paul’s Summary   Book recommendations Reality Unveiled:  https://amzn.to/3CxrVQg The seat of the Soul: https://amzn.to/3z0phBJ Many lives many masters:  https://amzn.to/3rQ6QLS   The concepts in these books help Paul to feel connected. The knowledge is the precursor to feeling the way Paul needs to feel to stay sober.    Upcoming events, retreats, and courses: You can find more information about our events   Resources Connect with Cafe RE - Use the promo code OPPORTUNITY to waive the set-up fee. Recovery Elevator YouTube - Subscribe here! Sobriety Tracker iTunes    Recovery Elevator- Go big because eventually, we all go home. I love you guys.