In Episode 76 of Far From Finished, Thomas talks about how writing everyday became a way to look at his past. While doing that, he learned to take apart the idea of himself as a monster. He started to see the good side of who he had always been. Writing became a way of not just delving into his own addiction but sharing it.

American Addiction Centers (AAC) presents “Far From Finished,” a weekly podcast that shares the real-life stories of people who survived substance use to thrive in recovery.

Thomas grew up as a very sensitive kid. He was very bookish as well as an introvert. He believed that he was an addict from day one. He was always using something to self-medicate and calm himself down — whether it was retreating from the world or getting lost in books. When he found drugs and alcohol he felt fun, easy and very effective. Addiction for him was built on a false persona. His addiction had isolated him to the point that he felt his spirit was hanging on by a tiny thread. Thomas had hit rock bottom and started to make plans to end his life.

Thomas will never forget being on a beach and hearing a phrase from someone that made him decide to call a suicide hotline instead of ending his life. Thomas believes the day on the beach was the day his old life died. He had a second chance. Thomas ended up in rehab, where it became an life changing experience. There he learned to get up, meditate and make a gratitude list. Thomas reminded himself of all the good things in life and it’s possibilities. Each day in treatment turned into an adventure in living.

Thomas didn’t have any expectations for life when he was using. He didn’t even think he would survive. Today, Thomas lives a life that is completely free and open. He believes that underneath the drugs and alcohol is a beautiful soul that he can always come back to.

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