It’s Never Too Late

by Garry Trent

“The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be,”
–Ralph Waldo Emerson

Being grateful is something I’m very familiar with. I’m a recovering alcoholic, an addict, and well aware of how my life could’ve turned out. When I compare the person I am today to the person I was years ago, I can’t help but reflect and feel gratitude. Through sobriety, I have earned my loving wife, a job that I enjoy, maintained my freedom, and learned how to appreciate every day I have on this earth. I’d be remiss not to acknowledge that I alone wouldn’t have achieved these things.

Through his patience, tough love and generosity for sharing his personal experiences, I would never have been able to come to terms with my past and the trauma I endured as a child if it weren’t for Herb Kay. I will always remember the words he spoke, that changed my life: “You are not alone.”

But, above all, without the help of God, to not only grant me the willingness to change, but also the strength to make the necessary changes, I would not be as blessed as I am. And, in paying it forward, it is my honor and privilege to help others as they have helped me.

Garry Trent has been in recovery for nearly 20 years and is happily married with a dog. He is a mentor and speaker for others in recovery and healing from past traumas.