Day 45.

Sad to wake up at 6 am, as today was my last full day in the castle.

Last group session to start the day and shared my new recovery plan.  This received good feedback as I had now put the new things in place that I had been in denial about.  Also had my goodbyes in the group, with other peers giving me goodbyes and thoughts on my time here with them.  It was a nice feeling to know that I have been a good peer in this group, and I will miss the group discussions we have had.

In the morning free time, I started to pack my bag and get my folder and pigeonhole in order.  Gave away a few things to other peers that will be nice for them and good in their recovery whilst in the castle.

It was another peer’s birthday shortly, a few days after I leave, so I had bought this peer some presents online over the past few weeks and gave the peer the presents.  I had really thought hard about what presents I was buying this peer, as this peer has some quirks and the presents suited these quirks.  This peer I have greatly bonded with and shared a lot of ups and downs in the castle with them, so it was heartwarming to see the reaction on this peer’s face upon opening the presents.  I will definitely stay in contact with this peer on the outside as I feel I have made a friend for life.

Throughout the day, I had some nice ‘goodbye for now’ chats with other peers, hopefully, I will have more chats with these peers in our recovery journeys.  Many peers have written goodbye messages, over the day, in my little ‘daily reflection’ book, which I have left out (with paper covering the daily reflections, so as to keep it private).  I will read these when out of the castle

The evening reflection was very heartwarming.  I had a chance to say a ‘goodbye’ speech and then I was overwhelmed by the gratitude that I received from the other peers.  Many saying how I have positively impacted their time in the castle.  This gave me a warm feeling inside knowing that I have had a positive effect on my peers.  I also expressed to all my peers, how they have all helped me in my recovery journey and that I am grateful to meet each and every one of them.

I am looking forward to and slightly anxious about my new start tomorrow.  Then my recovery journey beings and I shall use all the knowledge and techniques I have learned in the castle, to maintain my sobriety.

One more sleep in the castle!