In which your host ponders the utility of this thread.

Well, we made it through the worst month of the year. Well done, us. Congratulations to those who achieved Dry January and to those (like me) who did their best.

Can’t quite believe this thread is a year old. After Dry January 2024 I hoped this would become a supportive place for anyone trying to quit certain patterns, but also for anyone trying to cultivate others. It hasn’t quite turned out that way, though I am SO proud of the folks who have accomplished either goal.

I’ve seen more than a few people in other threads talk about their desire to change their habits, but they don’t post here. I embrace any suggestions about how to make this thread more welcoming and diverse in its intent: just because booze is my particular demon doesn’t mean that’s all we have to talk about. Also, if anyone has a book, podcast, TED talk, or other that they think merits spotlighting, I’m all for it and am happy to cede this space to anyone else so long as there’s a considered introduction to same.

It’s hard to discard any type of comfort in days like these. Cabernet, cannabis, cheese, and chocolate can distract you, even for a little while, from the horror. But there’s also reason to be as sharp, healthy, and prepared as one can be. Maybe we can all lift each other up in service of finding a balance, if nothing else.

TL;DR: Shit’s fucked, including WordPress.

How are you all doing?