THE MALDEN ADVOCATE–Friday, February 14, 2025 ~ Guest Editorial ~ Page 17 Sober Dating, Finding Love and Staying on Track Is Possible By Marie Garceau feel destabilizing. It is also critical to recognize R omantic relationships are complex, transformative, and often deeply rewarding. They bring joy, connection, and growth but also come with challenges. For individuals in recovery from substance use, romance carries additional layers of complexity. Balancing sobriety with the emotional demands of intimacy requires careful attention, intentionality, and self-awareness. Understanding how recovery and relationships intersect is key to fostering personal growth and healthy connections. Fortunately, there are practical resources you can use to navigate the challenges of sobriety and romance, whether you’re newly sober or lived a sober life for many years. One of the most significant challenges for people in recovery is maintaining the stability required to stay sober while embracing the unpredictable nature of romantic relationships. Sobriety demands focus and consistency, yet relationships often introduce emotions, conflicts, and vulnerabilities that can BASKETBALL | FROM PAGE 14 the risk of relapse. Many social settings associated with modern dating, such as bars or parties, can be triggering environments for someone in recovery. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 22% of Massachusetts adults 18 and older used an illicit drug in the past month. The National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics shows that 21% of Massachusetts adults over 18 binge drink at least once per month. Despite these challenges, romantic relationships can be a powerful source of strength and healing for individuals in recovery. A healthy partnership can provide accountability, emotional support, and motivation for continued growth. Relationships can foster resilience and emotional maturity when approached with care and intention. Practical approaches, such as prioritizing your recovery, can make this possible. Sobriety must remain the foundation of your life. Focus on building stable habits and confidence in your recovery before diving into a relationship. with 13, carried the offense to an almost solid comeback. The Pistons’ N. Sullivan was the game high scorer with 18, and J. Charles added 10 of his own and they ended with a solid victory. Game 2 – Bullets 39, Sixers 38 The crimson literally let this one slip by & stumbled out of 1st place, as they absolutely struggled at the free throw line. They did shoot an impressive 15 attempts But ONLY hit 1 of them? We know what practice is gonna be focused on this week “or at least it should be.” The Bullets only attempted 8 but hit 5 of them. You win close games at the line, they say. The Bullets’ C. Bolling led all with 13; Sixers J. Juarbe (11) and M. Joseph (10) had a decent game for themselves. Week 6 – “Controversy on the Court” Feb. 8 at Ferryway Game 1 – Sixers 58, Kings 42 Both teams started off with a good pace but it was the middle of the game that halted that momentum, as the Kings went down 17 somewhere between the 2nd & 3rd. The Sixers’ D. Hector led all scorers with 22. The Kings’ J. Hampton (21) kept fighting and teammate A. Greene had 11 in the game. But they fall back a bit in the standings with this tough loss. Nine of the 11 Sixers put points on the board – that was the difference – comMoreover, be open about your recovery journey with potential partners. Sharing your story early can set the tone for a relationship built on trust, understanding, and mutual respect. Discuss personal triggers and boundaries upfront to avoid potential conflicts or misunderstandings. Clear communication is essential to maintaining emotional safety. If you are newly sober, opt for dates that do not involve alcohol or drugs. Activities like hiking, art classes, coffee dates, or attending sober events provide meaningful ways to connect without temptation. Most importantly, stay connected with your support system, whether it’s a sponsor, therapist, or recovery group. Having people to process emotions and challenges with can help you maintain focus and stability. Utilize resources in your state, such as the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health and the Bureau of Substance Addiction Services. Help can be accessed through the Massachusetts Substance Use Helpline by calling 1-800-327-5050 or texting “HOPE” to 800327. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is also Marie Garceau has been working in the field of substance use and addiction recovery for over a decade. She works at DRS, which stands for Drug Rehab Services, and primarily focuses on reaching out to the community and spreading awareness. (Courtesy photo) available in the state. Beyond the commercial pressures of Valentine’s Day, it’s essential to remember that love – whether romantic or self-love – should always be nurtured with pared to 5 of the 9 Kings. Game 2 – Bullets 46, Lakers 34 The Rivalry is at it again. And after an awful 1st quarter for both teams combining for 6 points, they started to get the offenses going, especially in the 3rd with the Bullets jumping in front with a 21-12 spread in that frame. C. Bolling (23) had 15 of his game high in the 3rd quarter alone. Seven Lakers showed up to the game & the best part was they all scored. G. Leon with 10 paved the way, but he needed more offensive help, as they fell for the 9th time. Feb. 9 at Ferryway Game 1 – Lakers 45, Sixers 43 In a didn’t-see-this-coming moment, the Lakers allegedly got off the schneid. (Time will tell.) I say this because at the buzzer, on the scoreboard the Crimson had the Victory. But, in the book, they did not? As we try to connect the pieces, and as of right now going by the numbers & the Official Book, it’s a Purple Victory. Summary: Once again the Lakers had 7 players show up, and once again all 7 scored in the game. Perfect balance that was Led by W. Gavin with 15. The Sixers’ D. Hector led his team again, ending with 14. The Lakers held onto their slight lead at the half by 3 and then got outscored by 1 in the 2nd half and ended up with the 2-point advantage “By the Book.” Seek: The MNBL Board to make the final decision? This may change? intention and respect. When grounded in sobriety, relationships can be a profound source of joy and inspiration, showing us what is possible when we embrace love and healing. Game 2 – Pistons 50, Celtics 40 In our final game of the weekend, the Pistons jumped to the top of the pile with their 3rd straight win. They never trailed at the end of any quarter, as N. Sullivan & C. Orelien both led their team with 15, and J. Bly capped it off with 10 to help preserve the win. The Emerald had consistent scoring throughout each frame, but it was just below their opponents’ to push them over the hump. R. Doricent & J. Telemaque shared a pair of 12 as they couldn’t find that 3rd musketeer to chip in by game’s end! Team W L Kings 5 Sixers 5 Celtics 3 Lakers 1 Bullets Celtics MALDEN NEIGHBORHOOD BASKETBALL LEAGUE Games behind Streak Pistons 6 2 0 W - 3 Bullets 6 3 3 4 5 9 This Weekend’s Games Sat., Feb. 15 Kings Lakers 0.5 1 1.5 3 6 W - 2 L - 1 L - 1 L - 1 W - 1 Sun., Feb. 16 Celtics Bullets Sixers Pistons Note: Info was compiled by former 26 year Kings Coach/MNBL Booster/Statman Glenn Higgins.
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