For the first time in almost 4 years of writing, Mark has rightfully made a request for clarification. The way I have described our situation is "almost 6 years out since Mark's last major relapse." He pointed out that it leaves room for you to wonder what I mean by that. Have there been other relapses since? Is he currently sober? So let me give a few definitions in my own words. A relapse is when an addict falls back into addiction and stays there until they pull out. A slip is when an addict acts out on the addiction in a one-time situation, but quickly recognizes that it isn't what he/she wants. Slips (and even relapses) can be a normal part of the recovery process. So in these terms, it has been almost 6 years since Mark's last relapse and about 5 years since his last slip. Currently, he long ago passed from sobriety into recovery. It's hard to give a sobriety vs. recovery date because it's blurry where sobriety blended into the beginning stages of recovery. So, for his sake, know that he is rocking his recovery!!! I am thankful for his willingness to let me share so openly and the ways it has been a blessing to others struggling, especially those suffering in silence.
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