A day full of sand, sun, games, friendship, and teamwork. Muse got together with Axis Treatment Center/PVRC to engage residents and staff in a friendly game of sober volleyball at Dockweiler State Beach on a beautiful sunny day. We were lounging on the beach, frolicking in the water, playing beach volleyball, and snacking on delicious roasted hot dogs during our bonfire. New friendships were made and connections were established among all participants at the event as we gathered together to celebrate our recovery and partake in a fun SOBER activity.
We got off to a bit of a late start, but proceeded to set up our respective spots on the beach upon arrival. Many attendees went right for the ball and began to play around, others laid their towels down and began to soak up the sun, and several ran into the ocean and started splashing around in the water. People were sharing their experiences, goals, and stories with one another and spent the day offering and receiving support from fellow addicts and alcoholics in recovery. There was an undeniable feeling of togetherness in the environment throughout the day, as we all partook in an experience that exemplified how fulfilling having fun in sobriety can be.
Later in the afternoon, we roasted hot dogs and gathered around a bonfire, immersed in the feelings of hope and support that filled the air. By the end of the day, our bellies were full of hot dogs, our bodies were covered in sand, and our legs were sore from running around on the beach all day. It was wonderful.
Events like these are designed to remind us of how much fun being sober can be, and of the fact that we are never alone throughout this journey. Though we all have our own unique pasts, stories, and experiences, we are all working to achieve similar goals and overcome similar struggles. Many addicts and alcoholics new to recovery are skeptical about what it’s like to have fun in sobriety, and most would even say it seems impossible at first. Group outings like this are designed to encourage participation so members can see for themselves that having fun in sobriety is not only possible, but it’s incredibly fulfilling. The key is to fill your time with meaningful activities and surround yourself with positive, supportive individuals.
The implementation of community, support, friendship, and meaningful activities all work together beautifully to create a safe, positive environment for those in recovery to express themselves, connect with others, and experience fun in sobriety.
