You ever get that niggling feeling that you keep ignoring—but it just won’t go away, no matter how much you deny it’s there? That’s been happening to me for months now.
Being what I consider a health-conscious, clean-living woman, I started paying closer attention to those Instagram videos and wellness accounts. Down the rabbit hole I went—learning more and more about the horrid effects of alcohol not only on the body, but the BRAIN. I noticed how often cancer popped up in conversations, especially breast cancer, which studies show increases by about 10% for each additional daily drink a woman consumes. That hit close to home—my mom died from breast cancer, and suddenly the risks felt personal, real, and urgent. And here I am, at the ripe young age of 67, in what I lovingly call my “senior phase of life,” thinking I’m infallible.
And yet, deep down—really deep down—there was this prodding question nudging my spirit:
"Kelita, why are you still poisoning yourself with alcohol? Shouldn’t you be taking the best care ever of what God has blessed you with?”
That whisper became louder. I finally faced the truth.
I was abusing my body. I was sabotaging my peace. And I knew it.
Let’s be honest—many women will tell you that with aging comes less tolerance for booze. That was me. A few drinks and the next day I’d feel horrid. Foggy, lethargic, behind on everything. I’d put things off. I felt lazy. Like a lump of you-know-what. I didn’t like how I was being affected. I knew it wasn’t healthy.
So, the time had come.
January rolled around and I declared: Dry January, here I come. And no—I didn’t drink on my birthday.
There were temptations, of course. The beach club waiter taking drink orders. Friends clinking glasses at sunset. But I kept going. February. March. April. May. June. July. August.
In just a few days I will be 8 months alcohol-free!
I’m not saying I’ll never have a sip of red wine again or indulge in a killer margarita. But this—this is the longest I’ve ever gone without abusing alcohol since… well, probably since I was pregnant. (And I didn’t drink for those nine months!)
The changes have been noticeable. My head is clearer. My sleep is deeper. I feel stronger. I can confidently order something booze-free and not feel like I’m missing out on a thing.
And here’s the big truth: I didn’t write this seven-part series to point fingers or preach. There’s no judgment here—only honesty.
This journey has been about listening to that still, small voice I believe is God’s. He’s always known me better than I know myself. And in this season, I now find myself truly listening and then taking action.
I am grateful every day.
If you’ve been walking your own winding path with alcohol, or another substance, or even a habit that no longer serves the person you’re becoming… maybe this gave you something to think about. Maybe it sparked something.
I’d love to hear from you. We’re not alone in these quiet wrestling’s. Sometimes the bravest thing we can do is admit we’re ready for something different.
And then… take one small, steady step.
Author’s Note:
This post wraps up my personal series on my relationship with alcohol. If you’ve journeyed with me through these stories, thank you.
And if you want the whole picture—how the pain, the joy, the music, the heartbreak, and the healing all came together—I invite you to read my memoir, Reason to Sing – An Inspiring Journey Overcoming Trauma, Abuse, and Betrayal.
I hope it meets you wherever you are.
Available on Amazon and Audible (Click here)
If this series resonated with you and you’re feeling the nudge to explore your own healing, habits, or deeper purpose, I’d love to walk alongside you. In addition to writing and music, I offer one-on-one personal life coaching—a safe, compassionate space to explore your story, find clarity, and take meaningful steps forward.
Whether you're navigating change, seeking freedom from something that no longer serves you, or just needing a gentle guide, I'm here.
Learn more about coaching with me (Click here)
You don’t have to do it alone.
Feeling GREAT and GRATEFUL! |