Weed Was My Higher Power for 25 Years - Patty D

Patrick spent over two decades trapped in daily use, denial, and isolation. From high school parties to bartending life, from weed dependency to cocaine spirals, he believed recovery wasn’t possible. After losing relationships, hiding debts, and nearly losing his health, Patrick finally reached a breaking point when his family discovered the truth.In this powerful conversation, Patrick shares how honesty and surrender opened the door to treatment — and how the support of family and the 12 steps gave him a new life. He opens up about childhood insecurity, the destructive grip of marijuana and cocaine, his eye-opening rehab experience, and the spiritual practices that keep him grounded today.This is a raw and hopeful story about faith, service, and the freedom that comes with letting go. If you’ve ever felt alone in addiction, Patrick’s journey is living proof: recovery is possible.00:00 – Introduction & Patrick’s first steps toward recovery02:00 – First retreat experience & early sobriety milestones05:40 – Childhood insecurity, masks, and constant worry08:30 – High school party life: weed as his “higher power”10:00 – Cocaine enters the picture in university14:00 – Twelve years off hard drugs, but dependent on weed & alcohol17:20 – Progression into bartending, debt, and isolation20:20 – Dad’s stroke & the breaking point of honesty with family24:00 – Entering rehab: resistance, breakthroughs, and self-love29:00 – Discovering spirituality & meditation in recovery40:00 – Daily essentials: prayer, meetings, kindness, connection44:00 – The role of service and helping others in sobriety47:00 – Letting go of outcomes & trusting the process52:00 – Best advice: acceptance, empathy, and radical honesty