In a moment of clarity he heard a voice say, ‘You are not meant to be this unhappy,’ and everything changed.

In this heartfelt and deeply human episode of The Cup of Joe Show, Ian H. shares his powerful journey from fear and self-sabotage to faith and service. Growing up in Chicago, Ian says he “came into the world cockeyed” — anxious, full of self-doubt, and terrified of being blamed for things he didn’t do. When he discovered alcohol at just 11 years old, all that fear seemed to vanish.

By 13, he was stealing liquor, and by high school, he was already a full-blown alcoholic. The party lifestyle quickly spiraled into DUIs, blackouts, and painful consequences. In college, Ian suffered a nervous breakdown and “came to” one night covered in blood after crashing through a glass table while drunk. The cycle of fear, shame, and drinking continued for years.

After moving to California and later back to Chicago with his wife and two kids, Ian realized his problem had followed him wherever he went. The turning point came one quiet night on his porch when he heard a small voice say, “You are not meant to be this unhappy.” That moment of clarity led him into recovery — and ultimately, to peace.

Through working a 12-step program, connecting with others, and learning to be accountable, Ian found that his self-esteem could no longer depend on what others thought of him. He learned to love himself, serve others, and live with humility. Today, he continues to grow by practicing what he calls “estimable acts,” doing the right thing even when he doesn’t want to. Whether it’s doing the dishes or rescuing a bug from the house, Ian lives by kindness, courage, and quiet strength, a true spiritual ninja.

He now helps others through corrections recovery and even helped start a veterans’ meeting, reminding everyone that recovery is not an exclusive club; it’s for anyone willing to reach out for help.

If you or someone you love is struggling, help is available:
📞 Veterans seeking recovery: veteranscrisisline.net or dial 988 and press 1
🚔 Recovery in prisons and jails: prisonfellowship.org

🙏 Explore daily inspiration at dailyponderables.com

The Cup of Joe Show explores the journey of recovery from alcohol and drug addiction—one story, one conversation, and one step at a time. New Episode Every Thursday at Noon.