Election Day in Canada is a crazy day to choose to get sober again...

Yet here we are...

Before I get started, I would like to quickly take this moment to say that if you’re a Canadian citizen and you haven’t voted in the federal election yet—go vote. Today is Election Day. People always say things like, “this is the most consequential election!” However, this time they would be absolutely correct.

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Addiction is a tricky thing to deal with. Not just for the individual going through it, but for the people around said individual as well. A few weeks ago, I made a post about an addiction that I’ve been struggling with since November 2024. You probably assumed I’ve been sober again from that moment on. But in all honesty, I haven’t stopped. If anything, I’ve actually been hitting it even harder.

There’s no real excuses for it other than the fact that I’m addicted. Substance addiction can take over your entire being and oftentimes the withdrawals of quitting certain substances can be both physically and mentally painful.

Although most people seem to laugh at my current addiction (because people believe you can’t get addicted to this thing, which is total nonsense), it’s very real for me. The withdrawal symptoms have been similar to the symptoms when I quit heroin (and other hard drugs) years ago. Heroin was much more difficult to quit, but there are parallels.

Every time I quit my current addiction, it only lasts about a day or two. Why? Because I’m in a lot of pain, I cannot focus, I cannot sleep, I cannot eat, I’m so irritable and moody that I fear for what I might do or say to other people—especially to those I love. Like I said, it’s not easy.

I’m not looking for sympathy. I’m not looking for any type of attention. I don’t even want to be known as “the addict,” or, “the sober guy.” I’m so much more than that. I do, however, have a very unique story overall and I feel it’s important to share certain things with others. Someone out there might benefit from knowing they’re not alone. Or something.

Side note—It’s a wonder I’m publishing this post on time (or at all), as I’m currently going through some intense withdrawals. But it’s important that I maintain consistency on here, so here I am. This isn’t my best post. It’s probably the post I’ve spent the least amount of time focused on as my attention span definitely isn’t in the room with us right now.

My last time using was last night before bed. Sounds silly to be complaining about withdrawal symptoms already but those of you who are thinking in that way, please know that addicts don’t just use casually. We use with our whole life. I’ve been inhaling more of the bad stuff than I have oxygen. I wish I was joking. My bank account also wishes I was joking.

So today is day one.

My only wish is that people have a little more empathy and understanding for people who might be going through something tough. You would be surprised at the lack of support friends have been providing at this time (but also whatever).

I hope you all have a blessed day and that you treat other people with kindness. Hold a door open for someone. Say good morning to your neighbours. Ask the cashier how their day is going and say thank you to minimum wage workers. Everyone—and I mean everyone—is dealing with their own demons.

Everyone could use a little more kindness. Do not underestimate the power you have as a human being. We often look to leaders to fix our lives while we forget that our own actions have a ripple effect on the world. You have the ability to shape your immediate surroundings just with your influence and presence alone. You can contribute to the world turning to sh*t or you can contribute to the world becoming a better place overall. It’s ultimately your choice, with every little choice you make throughout every day.

In my mind, this is all relative. But then again, I cannot be totally sure that I’m making any sense right now so here’s what I’m going to do: I’m going to go ahead and publish this post right on time and then I’m going to spend the rest of the day working out, playing with my dog, spending time outside, and trying my best to stomach some food.

Thoughts and prayers appreciated though. Like I said, the withdrawal symptoms are surprisingly painful and very unpleasant. I’m trying everything in my power to refrain from another relapse (with very little support along the way).

Much love to you all and I want you to know how grateful I am that you’re here reading my silly little blog.

Canadians—go vote. Please.

Love you guys,
George