Wayne Kicklighter shares his 22-year journey of sobriety, from growing up with generational alcoholism to becoming a published author of a daily reflections book called "Peaceful Wisdom: Reflections on God, Life, and Recovery."
His transformation takes us through early party days, living a double life, hitting rock bottom, and ultimately finding a spiritual path to recovery and genuine self-discovery.
• Noticed alcoholic behavior in his family growing up, particularly his mother, who showed characteristics he later recognized in himself.
• Started drinking and doing drugs as a teenager to escape and fit in, becoming the "center of attention" for bringing party supplies.
• Worked as a bartender, feeding his ego with false security from "drinking buddies" rather than real friends.
• Lived a "Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde" double life, trying unsuccessfully to balance work with partying.
• Attempted repeatedly to "figure out how to live sober without giving up drinking" before truly surrendering.
• Experienced three phases of recovery: physical healing, mental transformation, and spiritual awakening.
• Found God in recovery after believing his actions were unforgivable and a relationship with God impossible.
• Wrote "Peaceful Wisdom" after retiring in 2021, sharing reflections from walking his dog and meditating.
• Started a YouTube channel, Peaceful Wisdom - God, Life, and Recovery - YouTube, featuring weekly videos on reflections from his book.
Find Wayne's book "Peaceful Wisdom: Reflections on God, Life, and Recovery on Amazon or follow his YouTube channel @Peaceful Wiz for weekly reflections.
Real Women LIVE (formerly Sober Living Stories) Host Jessica Stipanovic is a writer, podcast host, and founder of the Female Entrepreneur Organization.
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