This is my holiday recovery story and how it gave me back my family.
For years, the holidays were something I ran from.
I spent most of my life battling addiction to drugs and alcohol. My first son was born addicted to pain pills, and even though I was struggling, I always tried to make the holidays magical for my kids. I wanted them to feel the same warmth and joy I remembered from my own childhood.
Growing up, my mom and dad made every holiday feel like a dream. The decorations were vibrant, the house was full of love, and the gifts under the Christmas tree made me feel safe, seen, and special. My sister and I would get so excited, and those memories stayed with me—even through the darkest parts of my addiction.
When I was deep in my using days and separated from my children, the holidays became unbearable. I couldn’t face the joy I was missing out on. I felt like I didn’t deserve to be part of it. So I ran—from the memories, from the guilt, and from the pain.
But recovery changed everything.
Today, I’m clean. I’m present. And I’m surrounded by the people I love most—my children and my husband. The holidays are no longer something I fear. They’re something I cherish.
Now, I get to see my kids light up as we decorate the house together. I get to watch them try to stay awake on Christmas Eve, too excited to sleep. I get to experience the joy, the laughter, and the love that I once thought I had lost forever.
And I’m not doing it alone.
My husband has been my rock through this journey. He’s stood by me, supported me, and helped me rebuild the life I almost lost. Together, we’re creating new memories, new traditions, and a new legacy for our family—one rooted in healing, hope, and love.
Recovery gave me back my life. But more than that, it gave me back my family. It gave me back the holidays. And it gave me the chance to be the mother and wife I was always meant to be.
I know now that if I lose my recovery, I lose everything. That’s why I protect it with everything I have—because my life, my children, and my marriage depend on it.
This holiday season, I’m not just celebrating the lights and the gifts. I’m celebrating freedom from addiction, the power of second chances, and the beauty of being fully present with the people I love.
If you’re struggling, please know this: recovery is possible. And the joy waiting on the other side is more beautiful than you can imagine.
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Crystal Nelson is a woman in long-term recovery who has turned her pain into purpose. After spending years battling addiction, she now lives a life of freedom, faith, and family. Crystal is a devoted wife and mother, passionate about helping others find hope through recovery. She shares her story to inspire, uplift, and remind others that healing is possible—and that the holidays can be joyful again.
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