Addiction of any kind is not an easy topic for conversation, but Seth Haines draws us into one anyway with courage, vulnerability and grace.
Coming Clean is a journal of Seth’s first 90 days of sobriety from alcohol. But it’s also an outstretched hand of invitation to learn the way of inner sobriety from whatever dulls the pains of life’s hurts. (Disclaimer: I received a free copy of the book from the publisher through the Booklook Bloggers program in exchange for my review.)
I wouldn’t identify myself as an addict, but Seth’s premise is that we’re all drunk on something. We’re all looking for something to numb the pains and realities of life. And after reading through his journey, I’m convinced that I have some work to do in my life. What do I use to numb the pain? What is my escape? And who do I need to forgive?
This is a hard book to read. It’s readable. That’s not what I mean. But it’s challenging and I found myself susceptible to tears for almost no reason after I finished the book. Without forcing it, Seth issues challenges through his own journey for all who want to live a life free and full of love.
I’m not sure I’ve read anything more vulnerable, and I’m not sure five stars is enough.
Having an addiction is one thing. Admitting it is another. Fighting through it yet another. And seeking the source, what’s underneath the addiction, is hard but gratifying work.
You don’t have to be an addict or love one to appreciate this book. But you just might find yourself identifying. Maybe there’s an addict in all of us. Maybe we’re all just covering up the pain.
There are too many coping mechanisms to list. You know this. Right?
The bottle is not the thing. The addiction is not the thing. The pain is the thing.
The jig is up. My cover-up is threadbare. I can hide no longer. Not even from myself. (p. 71)
Approach with caution. Yet have no fear.
[…] few months ago, I read a book about a man’s first 90 days of sobriety from alcohol. In it, he suggests that maybe we’re all addicted to something, and invites readers to […]