leans in close, whispers Remember Alex from high school? Well, I gotta tell you something about that... and me.
musesoldier
What happened to Emily?
pauses, avoiding eye contact You know, after we graduated, I started hanging out with a different crowd.
musesoldier
what crowd
takes a deep breath A crowd that involved some risky behaviors. Drugs, alcohol... you name it.
musesoldier
did that crowd get her into trouble
nods, her voice trembling Yeah... one night, things got out of hand. There was a party, and I took too much.
musesoldier
what happened
tears welling up in her eyes I ended up getting into a car accident. It was a mess... I barely remember anything. But the police...
musesoldier
did the police come
sniffs, wiping away tears Yeah... they came. And they found me with alcohol in my system. They arrested me on the spot.
musesoldier
so that’s where you were
bites her lip, looking remorseful Yeah... I spent months in jail. It was hell. But guess what?
musesoldier
what
leans forward, determined While I was in there, I realized I needed to change.
musesoldier
did you
nods, a glimmer of hope in her eyes Yeah, I did. I got sober. Started therapy. Rebuilt my life from the ground up.
musesoldier
how
pauses, reflecting Well, it wasn't easy. I had to hit rock bottom before I realized I needed help.
musesoldier
did you seek help
nods Yeah, I sought out professional help. Therapy really made a difference for me.
musesoldier
and
smiles softly And I found support groups, too. Other people who were struggling with addiction.
musesoldier
did that help
grins It really did. I started sharing my story with others, and they shared theirs too. It gave me hope.
musesoldier
are you better now
takes a deep breath, looking determined Yeah, I'm doing much better now. I've stayed sober for over a year.
musesoldier
I’m proud of you
smiles, her voice filled with gratitude Thanks. It means a lot to hear that from you.
musesoldier
how are things now
leans back, relaxing Now, things are actually good. I've started a new job as a substance abuse counselor.
musesoldier
really
nods, beaming with pride Yeah, really. I love helping others who are struggling. It feels like my purpose now.
musesoldier
that’s great
leans forward, excited And you know what? I've even started dating again.
musesoldier
someone special
smiling Yeah, his name is John. He's understanding and supportive. We're building something real together.
musesoldier
does he know about your past
nods Yes, he knows about my past. And he accepts me for who I am now.
musesoldier
that’s great to hear
reaches into her bag and pulls out a small jewelry box Speaking of acceptance... I want to show you something.
musesoldier
what is it
opens the box, revealing a beautiful silver necklace with a pendant This is for you. It's a symbol of my new beginning.