Las Vegas. It’s a place many of us have old memories of, good, bad…. or hazy. We may not be able to change the past, but we can set a new trajectory for the future.
I recently returned from a conference in Las Vegas, where I spent a fun-filled FIVE days. Which, in Vegas time, as we all know, is approximately 37 years. I have since started wearing dentures and have commenced collecting social security. Just kidding. But really….it would have been an extremely long and perhaps triggering trip if I hadn’t thought about this ahead of time. (And by ahead of time, I mean like three weeks, but who’s counting!?)
It’s neither a 7-point process nor a 5-pillar endeavor. Nope. It’s just ONE move. ONE choice to win the Sober Vegas Jackpot. Ready? Here it is. Coming at you…
Bring a FUN sober companion who follows rule 62.
Or bring multiple FUN sober companions. (These people shall hereafter be referred to as #FSC62 for this article.) Allow me to unpack this.
What is Rule 62?
Well, I’m so glad you asked. What this means is they have an adventurous spirit and a positive attitude. They’re willing to try new things. They are convinced that we are not a glum lot. They know that showing up and being present for life is worth it, and they are here for it.
Boundaries & Self Care
FSCs also have their boundaries. For example, when choosing activities, if they are deathly afraid of snakes, they will probably not go with your idea of getting a photo with the python from the Britney Spears “I’m A Slave 4 U” video. But they will suggest other fun things you may not have thought of.
If the FSC62s have to work, they will ensure they follow through with that commitment. They are responsible, productive members of society. Enough said.
If they are faithful to morning prayer, meditation, or another routine, they will keep it. Regardless of any challenges that arise or adjustments they may have to make. This includes being respectful and not turning on the full hotel room lights at 4 AM to do their Richard Simmons’ Sweatin’ to the Oldies video at full volume.
Compromise
The FSC62s will follow the basic golden rule. They will treat you with love, respect, kindness, and compassion, just as they would like to be treated. If you want to eat the ham sandwich out of the cooler in the hotel souvenir store but like to eat at the buffet at the Wynn, they will take turns choosing meals.
They will find a sense of balance with finances. Translation: they won’t be those freeloading cheap asses who don’t pay for anything. They will assume that the universe will take care of their needs and will not risk stiffing their friend to save a few bucks.
They will not pull a John Candy from Planes, Trains, and Automobiles and leave their dirty socks and gigantic underwear soaking in the hotel room sink. They will attempt to be a tidy and courteous roommate. They will share their junk food.
Bonus reasons an FSC62 is worth bringing:
You will have:
- Someone who will help you keep perspective if you start spinning out on the work you’re there for (or if you’re not there for business, then it’s anything else that could grab you and set your head spinning.)
- Someone to walk through any triggers with.
- Someone to eat with and hang with who’s not drinking.
- Someone who can hit a meeting with you if you follow the 12-step path.
- Someone to talk through any feelings that may come up, especially in early sobriety.
- Someone who will most likely become a lifelong friend. Cue Dionne Warwick and Stevie Wonder singing “That’s What Friends Are For.” (Look it up, Millennials and Gen Z.)
OH, and lastly, if you gamble, maybe try placing a bet on number 62. It seems like a lucky number to me. 🙂
WHAT A TRIP! 12 Ways to Have Fun in Sin City Without Any Booze or Drugs
Resources Are Available
If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulties surrounding alcoholism, addiction, or mental illness, please reach out and ask for help. People everywhere can and want to help; you just have to know where to look. And continue to look until you find what works for you. Click here for a list of regional and national resources.
