Thank you Mark for having me back again! Thank you to anyone that has ever watched any of my interviews. Whether you were pulling for me, laughing at me, somewhat confused, totally inspired or thinking I’m just plain stupid and ugly… I appreciate you all regardless. I hope this one plants a positive and curious seed in the mind of the alcoholic or addict that still suffers out there. I’ll be back :) much love to all ♥️
Congratulations on your sobriety, Matthew! Love the outfit, the hair…the personality! I’m in recovery too (1 year, 2 months FREE from IV opiates, last one being fentanyl). It took me so long to finally get it. I have also spent the last 25 years on Roxys/Oxycontin, H and other opes. I’m really hoping that now, I’ve got it and won’t find a new rock bottom. Speaking of the steps, every time I got to step 4, I relapsed. I wonder what that means. Not currently working a program however I’m fully serene and haven’t had a craving! Congrats to you, you rock! Keep going!
Guess what. You keep learning. I had 20 years sobriety. Then got leukemia. Cancer wasn’t the cause but I then relapsed on my addiction. Then I got sober. Then I got cancer again. Had a bone marrow transplant. Sober and cancer free now. I keep learning.
I’m also an addict that got into heroin shortly after being diagnosed with leukemia. I went to rehab and got clean then relapsed and a couple months later relapsed. I then got clean again and my cancer got worse I was in the hospital for two months and am now awaiting a bone marrow transplant. I’ve been sober a little over a year now but still struggle. Seeing your comment I’ve never met someone with the same problems. Thank you for sharing and thank you Mark and Matthew.
Don't normally comment, but Matthew thank you so much for coming back and just talking and sharing all this with us. I've been following you from day one and never know what to expect from each video. I'm so happy you're doing so well and enjoying life again. We're all rooting for you.
What Matthew said at the end about taking responsibility for his actions and not blaming others was simple yet powerful. How many of us go through life never learning to do this. It's not easy!!
I lived my entire life playing the victim. A Santa sack FULL of resentments. How I'd be wronged, don't you know. Wow wake up call. I had to own my part in it all. Some things which were not my fault as a child, but I had NO idea I played a part in any of it 😂😂😂 disease of perception also. I'm quick to apologize today if I wrong someone. Being accountable wasn't something I participated in. So grateful today. ❤😊
Please pray for a friend who lost her 23 year old son 6 months ago to fentanyl. She is going back to work tomorrow as a school psychologist for Jr. High students. It's a very stressful job. She also has a 21 year old son and a 12 year old son.
Matthew, one of the greatest pieces of advice I got in the program was, “Just because it’s advertised, doesn’t mean I have to buy it”. It applies to just about everything that was in my way on my recovery journey.
My uncle was a drunk for years. Tried and tried to quit, relapse after relapse. In his early 50s he finally made it, got active in & stayed involved in AA til his early 80s, retired out of his awful job and discovered a whole new passion, and he & my aunt became sci fi con vendors! The point is that it aint over til it's over. I was bemoaning the state of my life & realized I'm still younger than he was when he changed everything & made his life incredible. He and my aunt (who did Al Anon with the commitment as he did AA & I'm sure that is part of their success) are still happy & reasonably healthy, still sober...but my uncle was a "lost cause" for over half his life... It really is never too late to create a better life.
It's so nice to see you walking the walk. Work on that humility by helping others. We (addicts) have really big egos and very low self esteem. They don't go hand in hand. Welcome home brother
Your story is amazing! My husband and I met in rehab and have been together for 16 years. We are 2 and half years clean and sober. We were knuckleheads. Super proud of you‼️
AA does work. My son,45, has been sober one year after 25 years of serious addiction (heroin, crack, strong opiates all combined) He goes every day to a meeting. He has worked all steps. All of his friends are recovering addicts, 14 yrs, 23 yrs, 19 yrs. They are all married and stable, his age and are the best support system he could have. I thank God for this group and AA and the hope and future they given my son.
Hi Mark, just want to say how much I enjoyed the video today! It’s a beautiful thing, to see someone in recovery. The odds are stacked against people in recovery so to hear stories such as Matthew’s inspire those of us in recovery to keep going and those who are in active addiction to find a way out. All the best to you.
Hi Matthew. You are doing so well now and I feel you will continue on the sober path. I’m in recovery too and owe my life to a 12-step program. Thank you for speaking so positively about the program and explaining the steps. I know you’ve made a difference in others’ lives today. Keep up the great work ❤
I’ve been following you from day one Matthew. I know it’s been a struggle but you’ve come out of this with an amazing story and with a healthy new perspective. You can do a lot of good if you stay out of your own way. Keep going! Happy for you.
Matthew!!! I was so jacked to wake up, fire up the phone and see you. I have thought of you often and am so glad to see you at peace with yourself. Thank you for sharing your journey in an honest, authentic way. I was tempted to say "you got this" ... but life is fluid as are people. You've got the tools (I know, lol) to continue on your journey. I wish you strength, peace and love. Keep on keeping on ... more people need and benefit from you than you can imagine. Peace~
Hi Matthew, I didn’t see your earlier interviews, so only know you from this latest video. I grew up with alcoholic parents, grandparents & other relatives … family disease. I’ve been to recovery for co-dependency. My son (also an only child) is currently struggling with addiction. You remind me of him and you give me hope. Thank you for sharing your journey! Keep coming back (AA mantra … or Tony Robbins 😉). Love & best wishes to you. ❤🙏🏻
Matthew, I don't know if you'll read this but, your story hit me deeply... reminds me of a Jack Kerouac book quote: "A pain stabbed my heart, as it did every time I saw a girl that I loved going the opposite direction in this too-big world." I'm so sorry for your loss and for that beautiful potential life path that was taken from you. It's hard enough to find honest and real connections with people in this fucked up world... I wish you the best.
Hate to be a Debbie-downer, but he is nowhere near " making it." He's definitely made some progress, but unfortunately, he's just left the proverbial starting line. It's awesome to see him finally break the " trying" curse and find some solid footing, but I've seen this exact attitude a bunch before, and it typically doesn't last long or end up well. I certainly don't wish anything bad for him, and I would love nothing more than to see him make an awesome life, but more often than not, this overconfidence leads to disappointment. He now " knows" so much.... in my experience, I had to realize I knew absolutely fuck all. I was scared constantly the first 6-12 months of my recovery. I was scared of who I was and scared because I was in the process of building a brand new human. I knew very little, and it truly had me questioning and weary or outright scared of a lot of life. For me, that's just what it took, though. I had to finally learn that I wasn't an effective human. I had to build one from scratch at 30 years old, and that, to me, was absolutely terrifying. That was 7 years ago. I'm certainly not afraid of life's possibilities anymore, but I still question my thoughts and actions at times. I guess I just want to constantly remind myself that for 30 years, my natural inclination was to do what was inherilantly unhealthy or bad for me , and I certainly don't ever want to be that person again. Either way, I would love nothing more than to be wrong about the kid. And Hopefully, next time we see him, he's in a much better place.
So happy to hear Matthew is on the right path and wish him continued success. I love his positive vibes 👍💝 Once again, Mark has a hand in helping folks in their recovery. He is a blessing to so many!
My husband has been in aa for 2.5 yrs. Matthew, please finish your steps. Over and over and over again. Then start your steps over. ❤ to you and blessing through your recovery.
YOUR STORY IS THE SAME STORY AS MOST ADDICTS, YOU DESERVE LOVE AND LIFE. If you haven't already, I would strongly advise looking into a career in TV/radio/podcast. Your character AND your voice l keep me waiting to hear what you're going to say next! For what it's worth EVERYONE is very proud of you for choosing life!❤
I love that you are being authentic and honest. Recovery is not a commercial or movie where the individual gets some treatment (or not) and just has a great life in a bed of roses after that. It is a struggle each and every day. You need to be vigilant and have heaps of support. Recovery is like life in that it is not linear or neat. It is messy and all over the place. You have done amazing. Congratulations. Keep up the good work. Well done.
Wow! Loved this interview Matthew. I am also a proud & grateful member of AA. The program saved my life. Hands down. I loved listening to your experiences with the program. That was SO similar to my experiences. Step 4 took me about 18 months to finish and it was perfect. The timing worked and my sponsor was fabulous with it all. I felt 80% lighter after my 4th, 5th & 6th. My whole outlook changed from that moment on. People are scared of Step 4. But without doing it, we stay VERY sick right. I made amends. Ate lots of crow 😂😂😂😂 and for those who don't understand addiction, will NEVER get it. So I never try to explain it away. I live as an anonymous member and just try to be a contributing member of society. No one needs to know who I am and where I've come from. So I have no problem staying under the radar today. Keep up the great work Matthew. Sending love & a big hug from New Brunswick Canada 🇨🇦 ❤😊 March 21, 2015, ODAAT
Being in love is like a substition drug. I've seen many people fall into this trap and wake up a few months later, lost again. Seems like he still needs his high. Still appreciate your honesty, matthew and wish you much success on your path. i'm going it aswell.
This is totally the case here imo. Early days here and the codependency is common in recovery. It is a big part of why we are encouraged to not date/hookup for the first 12 months or so. It is so easy to replace one ‘high’ for another like ‘love’.
That’s so dumb. If you have a connection you have one. I don’t want 12steppers telling me what to do with my life and relationships, it’s not your place.
@@kellyarnold1521 but it IS their place…..if you want to STAY sober/clean you have a higher probability as a SINGLE person so that your wellness is not contingent on anyone else’s. We are all grown and make our own choices obviously however getting and staying sober takes work and a lot of compromise. A romantic relationship only complicates matters.
@@kellyarnold1521 the only thing dumb to do would be to disagree with almost everybody who's successfully recovering and do the opposite. and in general it's not about never dating or being in a relationship again. it's about giving yourself the time you need to be confronted with yourself and to transform your addicted personality traits. there is no other way to overcome the addiction but a lot of people have to learn the hard way or never do learn. look at matthew, he's struggling with recovery and soberness since he started to get clean and for everybody with a realistic look at it he's not there yet.
Mathew... Thank you for sharing. You are an inspiration. I've watched you from the beginning. You've earned this well-being. Enjoy your good karma. All the best from Italy🇮🇹 Stay strong.
Such an inspiring story of never giving up and getting through the tough times and making it out on the other side with a desire to give this gift to others -AND finding ❤while at it - Congrats! Matthew and thank you for coming back and giving us an update.
I just woke up,looked at my phone and saw Matthew's thumbnail and was struck by his pic. He glowed. I just had to hear what he had to say. What a lovely soul.
I don't normally comment, but just wanted to thank you for keeping us updated with Matthew. It's great to see him on the right path and I didn't realize how much effort it takes to fight an addiction. I also thank the Angel for helping him, you are a true hero. Matthew, when the time is right, I am sure you will do great job of helping others. You have been given a gift, and I cant wait to hear the next update.
It's great to see someone pull their life together. I didn't think Matthew was ready for the fight that is getting off opiates after his first interview. He seemed to buy into the idea of 'functioning addict.' I did too once upon a time. But in retrospect I was just fooling myself into continuing my abuse and excusing my addiction. Yes, you might have a job, a relationship, financial security while using. But that won't last and you're probably living a double life. It will catch up to you eventually and wreck your life. You can't use opiates daily and expect your normal life to last very long.
Thanks for your talks, Matthew. Your progress and journey is inspiring. My husband, a recovering addict, works the program. He's an intelligent guy, too. He says his best thinking is what gets him into trouble. (maybe this is a slogan in aa, maybe you've heard it) For the program to work for him, he as to trust the program and not his own thinking - which is really hard for a smart person. Wishing you well from the great north :) I hope to see more talks from you.
Matthew, you are a great story teller and I can see how you enjoy poetry and lyrics and I bet you're a great writer. I don't know the right words but I want to tell you how much I want you to succeed. You're someone I feel I could easily sit and comfortably chat with for hours. I truly wish you all the best!
how many of us going threw the same thing are drawn to your videos, love you man and dont even know you, good luck from all of us and good luck to everyone else dealing with this. We got this
You really break down our steps beautifully. Staying sober and loving who you are and who you’ve been will set you free. Love this interview and know that we are all impulsive. Take it easy and live a great life.
Matthew, I’m so grateful to watch you and sharing your story. I needed to hear you today 🙏. I’ve been in and out of the rooms. Today I’m sober. Thank you for carrying the message. 🥰
I really enjoyed your interview, Matthew. Thank you for sharing, which is a powerful gift that helps so many people. We teach the best through our own life experiences, both good and bad. The best of everything for you on your path forward!
Hey Matthew. I wanted to tell you that I'm proud of you. I think you're doing pretty good and I hope you keep going. Loving ourselves is such a hurdle, much harder than stopping drug use, IMO. I also wanted to apologize for some comment I'd made in the past. I don't remember what it was but it wasn't very nice which is certainly more of a reflection on me than it is on you. I've been clean almost 9 years but I still have a lot of work to do, so I hope you can understand and forgive me. PS. I like your outfit 😊 and great taste in music. Hope we see you again. Oh yeah also you remind me of a much younger Jeff Bridges here.
Awesome job Matt. very lucky to have that "Angel." I went to rehab @the Pheonix House in Venice in 2018. I've managed to stay sober from heroin. I'm up in Northern Cali now really struggling I have a spinal cord injury from a car accident and have not worked for 3 years and am fighting for disability. My only vehicle won't pass. I'm staying clean but I am really struggling with pain from injury. I'm fearful for my future. Please pray for me friends
Matthew, I am SO happy for you ❤️ You are such a likeable, intelligent, nice person and you deserve this new life SO much. I know it's not all pink and unicorns, it's a damn struggle at times. But you are over the worst, I truly believe that. I believe you are one of the few people who actually get out of addiction. If you find a job, studies or something that really interest you, your life will be so much better. For all people to thrive, we need something we are engaged in, at least for us people with addiction issues it's extremely important that we don't have to much time on our hands. We need to be engaged. Something exiting hopefully. I hope you find your things. Volunteering can be great. I wish you all the best, Matthew, lots of love from Norway ❤️
Takes so much strength and courage to be that open about your personal life, choices, good and bad! Ultimately, it's wonderful (and a privilege), this glimpse into your life, to observe the sense of obvious compassion and pride you're discovering for yourself (i know in making assumptions here - could be wrong :) as your real hard fought efforts are starting to pay off. Looking forward to next update! Take care.
Well, here’s a friendly comment(!) You seem like a cool enough guy to me, and much respect to you for taking the steps you have to improve your physical/mental/spiritual health and being willing to talk so openly about it like this. All my best wishes to you man.
I’ve enjoyed this story. I started watching maybe a year ago while in active addiction. In part, these SWU vids prompted me to get into recovery. I’m now 3 months clean and sober. 😊
What a difference, congrats m'dude! You have a similar attitude to the program that I do - which is to say: I don't love it, but know I need it! Cheers to willingness and resilience!
Matthew, I think you are a lovely young man! I have dealt with generational addiction. I finally broke the chain and you are definitely doing your program. For those people who are negative what do you get from the ugliness! Loved ones of addict can love their addicted loved one, respect boundaries and yes in the program there are times for ammends. But there comes a point after ammends you all have to let go of the past and look forward to a future. You have to stop treating your love one as an addict and as a regular human.
Mark recently did a memorial video for those SWU souls who died and I was hoping my favorites didn't come up. I was really happy when you didn't appear. Your here to make a difference Matthew and you are!
Dope tracksuit Matt! You're like a different person. It's like your soul is shining and really alive. You have done so much work on yourself. So happy for you and your relationship. The world is your oyster buddy. I remember watching your first interview and you were so narcissistic. Now you are so loving and humble
I have an almost identical history to this dude, but he speaks from a place of pride. He seems proud to have done all this shit, not remorseful. Strange.
I’ve just watched all of the interviews with Matthew, and it’s been very interesting and thought provoking. I’ve never taken anything, never been drunk, not a thing stronger than black tea. But I still feel a very strong familiarity with your journey so far. My drug of choice was an eating disorder and self harm. I’m diagnosed with adhd and definitely have tendencies towards addiction with seeking dopamine constantly and having a hard time regulating emotions. I’ve been in contact with healthcare so many times and relapsed so many times, and several of the lessons Matthew talks about here has been key in my recovery too. It took many years of hard work before I saw a pattern of less and less relapses and I’m so proud of myself that I powered through to the point I’m at today. Sometimes I still have to just tell myself to get under a blanket and wait until I’m in a better headspace before I make any kinds of decisions, but that’s okay.
Matthew, I have learned so much from you. We are all going through same scenarios in life but you are making progress and giving hope to those who see this video.
There’s an untold story behind Mathew’s journey, as expressed through the dedication of his anonymous angel support team. For every success I’m guessing there have been tenfold loses. It takes a special human to stay the course. Kudos to all involved !
Love this man's journey. I have watched all the episodes with him. His honesty is what is helpful to others, and I appreciate that he had the courage to be honest not only to us viewers but to himself.
I really enjoyed this interview. Good job, Matt. Keep your connection to your higher power and you will be well taken care of. The most important part of recovery in my opinion. There will be moments where you reach out and a human isn’t available. Your higher power always is.
I am so over the moon for you Matthew! You have a beautiful heart , and a beautiful life ahead of you! You will help so many people with your story and your kindness. Please know how important and special you are!! Lots of love to you , be well❤❤
Man, really glad to see you doing well. Your path to where you are now has been really cool and interesting to watch. Love how honest and open and unabashedly yourself you are. You're a good and cool dude. I wish you the best man. I subscribed to your channel.
"Live life on life's terms". That is well said! Simple but with a lot of meaning. I wish you to attain your dreams, Matthew. You are capable and you deserve it.
i appreciated matthews story bc i too was a "functional" heroin addict for 10 years. now with 3 years sober i realize the level of delusion i was living in 🙃 congrats on your recovery and to anyone out there who is struggling if a heroin addict like me can do it u can too. u deserve recovery and a life beyond your wildest dreams. #wedorecover
Thank you Mark for having me back again! Thank you to anyone that has ever watched any of my interviews. Whether you were pulling for me, laughing at me, somewhat confused, totally inspired or thinking I’m just plain stupid and ugly… I appreciate you all regardless. I hope this one plants a positive and curious seed in the mind of the alcoholic or addict that still suffers out there. I’ll be back :) much love to all ♥️
I only wish you happiness and success and i m rooting for you. Its a struggle and a process. We do recover.
Nice outfit
Happy Holidays and thank you for your share this morning … allll the way from over here on the other coast/PSU💙🤍
Congratulations on your sobriety, Matthew! Love the outfit, the hair…the personality! I’m in recovery too (1 year, 2 months FREE from IV opiates, last one being fentanyl). It took me so long to finally get it. I have also spent the last 25 years on Roxys/Oxycontin, H and other opes. I’m really hoping that now, I’ve got it and won’t find a new rock bottom. Speaking of the steps, every time I got to step 4, I relapsed. I wonder what that means. Not currently working a program however I’m fully serene and haven’t had a craving! Congrats to you, you rock! Keep going!
❤❤❤
Guess what. You keep learning. I had 20 years sobriety. Then got leukemia. Cancer wasn’t the cause but I then relapsed on my addiction. Then I got sober. Then I got cancer again. Had a bone marrow transplant. Sober and cancer free now. I keep learning.
Jesus Christ God bless you
God Bless you
Thank you for your honesty, I hope you are clean and sober … and healthy today🥰
I’m also an addict that got into heroin shortly after being diagnosed with leukemia. I went to rehab and got clean then relapsed and a couple months later relapsed. I then got clean again and my cancer got worse I was in the hospital for two months and am now awaiting a bone marrow transplant. I’ve been sober a little over a year now but still struggle. Seeing your comment I’ve never met someone with the same problems. Thank you for sharing and thank you Mark and Matthew.
Don't normally comment, but Matthew thank you so much for coming back and just talking and sharing all this with us. I've been following you from day one and never know what to expect from each video. I'm so happy you're doing so well and enjoying life again. We're all rooting for you.
Thank you, Jesus❤
@@sandraoyervides6465Go away with that toxic religion
Right?
Going through heroin withdrawal currently and these help so much! Thank you ❤ first time commenting eyes on the prize
♥️ get through it and get better 👍🏻
@@MatthewAndrewDrake thank you my husband is going through it right by my side ❤️
Sending u positive, hopeful, loving vibes. You're going to be ok. I got this! Fr, fr. You're not alone. ☮️☮️
❤️🩷🤍🖤🤎💜💙🩵💚💛🧡
Very PROUD of you!! ❤
Thank you 😊 ❤
You know you’re past everyone’s opinions of you when you can wear a tiger body suit with confidence. Congratulations on your recovery Matthew.
😂 no fr
That Tiger "body suit " is GUCCI
It’s a jogging suit from Gucci, not a bodysuit
It’s a Gucci jogging suit
I definitely can’t afford Gucci, the brand is “G Style USA”
What Matthew said at the end about taking responsibility for his actions and not blaming others was simple yet powerful.
How many of us go through life never learning to do this. It's not easy!!
I lived my entire life playing the victim. A Santa sack FULL of resentments. How I'd be wronged, don't you know. Wow wake up call. I had to own my part in it all. Some things which were not my fault as a child, but I had NO idea I played a part in any of it 😂😂😂 disease of perception also.
I'm quick to apologize today if I wrong someone. Being accountable wasn't something I participated in. So grateful today. ❤😊
Please pray for a friend who lost her 23 year old son 6 months ago to fentanyl. She is going back to work tomorrow as a school psychologist for Jr. High students. It's a very stressful job. She also has a 21 year old son and a 12 year old son.
I've seen a million Matthews he'll be right back just sitting on the bottom
you sound insufferable, grow up already
@@cinndot🙏❤️
Matthew, one of the greatest pieces of advice I got in the program was, “Just because it’s advertised, doesn’t mean I have to buy it”. It applies to just about everything that was in my way on my recovery journey.
Same. 12 step never has worked for me. I found my way ! Im happy you are safe ..
My uncle was a drunk for years. Tried and tried to quit, relapse after relapse. In his early 50s he finally made it, got active in & stayed involved in AA til his early 80s, retired out of his awful job and discovered a whole new passion, and he & my aunt became sci fi con vendors! The point is that it aint over til it's over. I was bemoaning the state of my life & realized I'm still younger than he was when he changed everything & made his life incredible. He and my aunt (who did Al Anon with the commitment as he did AA & I'm sure that is part of their success) are still happy & reasonably healthy, still sober...but my uncle was a "lost cause" for over half his life... It really is never too late to create a better life.
It's so nice to see you walking the walk. Work on that humility by helping others. We (addicts) have really big egos and very low self esteem. They don't go hand in hand. Welcome home brother
Your story is amazing! My husband and I met in rehab and have been together for 16 years. We are 2 and half years clean and sober. We were knuckleheads. Super proud of you‼️
proud of both of you ❤️
This comment just brings me pure joy of you guys doing it together and being successful, congrats and keep it up! Much love.
AA does work. My son,45, has been sober one year after 25 years of serious addiction (heroin, crack, strong opiates all combined) He goes every day to a meeting. He has worked all steps. All of his friends are recovering addicts, 14 yrs, 23 yrs, 19 yrs. They are all married and stable, his age and are the best support system he could have. I thank God for this group and AA and the hope and future they given my son.
🎉 🎉🎉congratulations
This is exactly what I needed to hear today. Addicts helping addicts. God bless
Hi Mark, just want to say how much I enjoyed the video today! It’s a beautiful thing, to see someone in recovery. The odds are stacked against people in recovery so to hear stories such as Matthew’s inspire those of us in recovery to keep going and those who are in active addiction to find a way out. All the best to you.
Hi Matthew. You are doing so well now and I feel you will continue on the sober path. I’m in recovery too and owe my life to a 12-step program. Thank you for speaking so positively about the program and explaining the steps. I know you’ve made a difference in others’ lives today. Keep up the great work ❤
I’ve been following you from day one Matthew. I know it’s been a struggle but you’ve come out of this with an amazing story and with a healthy new perspective. You can do a lot of good if you stay out of your own way. Keep going! Happy for you.
SO PROUD OF YOU, Matthew!!! You will stay sober & you will accomplish everything you want to do! You've come so far that sky's the limit. ❤
Matthew!!! I was so jacked to wake up, fire up the phone and see you. I have thought of you often and am so glad to see you at peace with yourself. Thank you for sharing your journey in an honest, authentic way. I was tempted to say "you got this" ... but life is fluid as are people. You've got the tools (I know, lol) to continue on your journey. I wish you strength, peace and love. Keep on keeping on ... more people need and benefit from you than you can imagine. Peace~
These videos make a positive impact. Good for you, Mark! Best wishes, Matthew, on your recovery journey.
Congratulations Matthew...stay strong brother🙏 I been drinking too frequently lately and needed to hear this
TY Matthew for your rigorous honesty! Stay close to your maker and stay humble. We need you ! God bless you and your family.
Hi Matthew, I didn’t see your earlier interviews, so only know you from this latest video. I grew up with alcoholic parents, grandparents & other relatives … family disease. I’ve been to recovery for co-dependency. My son (also an only child) is currently struggling with addiction. You remind me of him and you give me hope. Thank you for sharing your journey! Keep coming back (AA mantra … or Tony Robbins 😉). Love & best wishes to you. ❤🙏🏻
Matthew communicates the 12 steps beautifully. He'll help so many people find a path in recovery ❤
Matthew, I don't know if you'll read this but, your story hit me deeply... reminds me of a Jack Kerouac book quote: "A pain stabbed my heart, as it did every time I saw a girl that I loved going the opposite direction in this too-big world." I'm so sorry for your loss and for that beautiful potential life path that was taken from you. It's hard enough to find honest and real connections with people in this fucked up world... I wish you the best.
Ooo I saw it and that’s a good one! Thank you ❤
Love this dude. Glad he made it. So many don't. His self awareness is inspiring.
Hate to be a Debbie-downer, but he is nowhere near " making it."
He's definitely made some progress, but unfortunately, he's just left the proverbial starting line.
It's awesome to see him finally break the " trying" curse and find some solid footing, but I've seen this exact attitude a bunch before, and it typically doesn't last long or end up well.
I certainly don't wish anything bad for him, and I would love nothing more than to see him make an awesome life, but more often than not, this overconfidence leads to disappointment. He now " knows" so much.... in my experience, I had to realize I knew absolutely fuck all. I was scared constantly the first 6-12 months of my recovery. I was scared of who I was and scared because I was in the process of building a brand new human. I knew very little, and it truly had me questioning and weary or outright scared of a lot of life.
For me, that's just what it took, though. I had to finally learn that I wasn't an effective human. I had to build one from scratch at 30 years old, and that, to me, was absolutely terrifying.
That was 7 years ago. I'm certainly not afraid of life's possibilities anymore, but I still question my thoughts and actions at times. I guess I just want to constantly remind myself that for 30 years, my natural inclination was to do what was inherilantly unhealthy or bad for me , and I certainly don't ever want to be that person again.
Either way, I would love nothing more than to be wrong about the kid. And Hopefully, next time we see him, he's in a much better place.
Was just thinking of Matthew the other day!! So so glad to hear he is still doing well, so happy for him 🙌🙌♥️
Congrats Matthew. You sound like you are living life as it should be. Stay sober.
So happy to hear Matthew is on the right path and wish him continued success. I love his positive vibes 👍💝
Once again, Mark has a hand in helping folks in their recovery. He is a blessing to so many!
Thank you. Your honesty and humility is so essential and you are an excellent example of how AA functions. A lot of people may now give it a chance.
My husband has been in aa for 2.5 yrs. Matthew, please finish your steps. Over and over and over again. Then start your steps over. ❤ to you and blessing through your recovery.
I’m so glad you’re doing so well. This interview gives me so much hope for your recovery 🙌
YOUR STORY IS THE SAME STORY AS MOST ADDICTS, YOU DESERVE LOVE AND LIFE. If you haven't already, I would strongly advise looking into a career in TV/radio/podcast. Your character AND your voice l keep me waiting to hear what you're going to say next! For what it's worth EVERYONE is very proud of you for choosing life!❤
Thank you for sharing!! And coming back and sharing updates. Your story is full of the difficult realities and the hope that prevails.
I love that you are being authentic and honest. Recovery is not a commercial or movie where the individual gets some treatment (or not) and just has a great life in a bed of roses after that. It is a struggle each and every day. You need to be vigilant and have heaps of support. Recovery is like life in that it is not linear or neat. It is messy and all over the place. You have done amazing. Congratulations. Keep up the good work. Well done.
With great power, comes great responsibility ! We all have this power. This page has the ability to change lives.
I am so proud of you, Matt. Keep working your steps and moving forward!
I hope you make it, I have watched all the interviews with you today, really hoping the best for you!
Great interview! Thank you again Matthew and Soft White Underbelly
Wow! Loved this interview Matthew. I am also a proud & grateful member of AA. The program saved my life. Hands down. I loved listening to your experiences with the program. That was SO similar to my experiences. Step 4 took me about 18 months to finish and it was perfect. The timing worked and my sponsor was fabulous with it all. I felt 80% lighter after my 4th, 5th & 6th. My whole outlook changed from that moment on.
People are scared of Step 4. But without doing it, we stay VERY sick right. I made amends. Ate lots of crow 😂😂😂😂 and for those who don't understand addiction, will NEVER get it. So I never try to explain it away. I live as an anonymous member and just try to be a contributing member of society. No one needs to know who I am and where I've come from. So I have no problem staying under the radar today.
Keep up the great work Matthew. Sending love & a big hug from New Brunswick Canada 🇨🇦 ❤😊
March 21, 2015, ODAAT
♥️ thank you ♥️
🎉🎉congratulations
Being in love is like a substition drug. I've seen many people fall into this trap and wake up a few months later, lost again. Seems like he still needs his high.
Still appreciate your honesty, matthew and wish you much success on your path. i'm going it aswell.
This is totally the case here imo. Early days here and the codependency is common in recovery. It is a big part of why we are encouraged to not date/hookup for the first 12 months or so. It is so easy to replace one ‘high’ for another like ‘love’.
That’s so dumb. If you have a connection you have one. I don’t want 12steppers telling me what to do with my life and relationships, it’s not your place.
@@kellyarnold1521 but it IS their place…..if you want to STAY sober/clean you have a higher probability as a SINGLE person so that your wellness is not contingent on anyone else’s. We are all grown and make our own choices obviously however getting and staying sober takes work and a lot of compromise. A romantic relationship only complicates matters.
@@kellyarnold1521 ‘12steppers’ is a program with the highest success rates. You are not ready to get sober apparently.
@@kellyarnold1521 the only thing dumb to do would be to disagree with almost everybody who's successfully recovering and do the opposite.
and in general it's not about never dating or being in a relationship again. it's about giving yourself the time you need to be confronted with yourself and to transform your addicted personality traits. there is no other way to overcome the addiction but a lot of people have to learn the hard way or never do learn. look at matthew, he's struggling with recovery and soberness since he started to get clean and for everybody with a realistic look at it he's not there yet.
Mathew... Thank you for sharing. You are an inspiration. I've watched you from the beginning. You've earned this well-being. Enjoy your good karma. All the best from Italy🇮🇹 Stay strong.
Such an inspiring story of never giving up and getting through the tough times and making it out on the other side with a desire to give this gift to others -AND finding ❤while at it - Congrats! Matthew and thank you for coming back and giving us an update.
Glad to see you back, Matthew! We love you bro and are rooting for you!!
I just woke up,looked at my phone and saw Matthew's thumbnail and was struck by his pic. He glowed. I just had to hear what he had to say. What a lovely soul.
I don't normally comment, but just wanted to thank you for keeping us updated with Matthew. It's great to see him on the right path and I didn't realize how much effort it takes to fight an addiction. I also thank the Angel for helping him, you are a true hero. Matthew, when the time is right, I am sure you will do great job of helping others. You have been given a gift, and I cant wait to hear the next update.
It's great to see someone pull their life together. I didn't think Matthew was ready for the fight that is getting off opiates after his first interview. He seemed to buy into the idea of 'functioning addict.' I did too once upon a time. But in retrospect I was just fooling myself into continuing my abuse and excusing my addiction.
Yes, you might have a job, a relationship, financial security while using. But that won't last and you're probably living a double life. It will catch up to you eventually and wreck your life.
You can't use opiates daily and expect your normal life to last very long.
So proud of you! I love seeing you sober. I wish you all the best. Thank you for sharing your story with us.
Thanks for your talks, Matthew. Your progress and journey is inspiring. My husband, a recovering addict, works the program. He's an intelligent guy, too. He says his best thinking is what gets him into trouble. (maybe this is a slogan in aa, maybe you've heard it) For the program to work for him, he as to trust the program and not his own thinking - which is really hard for a smart person. Wishing you well from the great north :) I hope to see more talks from you.
Nice going, Matthew. I sure wish you the best. So glad you are keeping yourself pointed in a good direction.
HONESTY... so refreshing ❤
Matthew, you are a great story teller and I can see how you enjoy poetry and lyrics and I bet you're a great writer. I don't know the right words but I want to tell you how much I want you to succeed. You're someone I feel I could easily sit and comfortably chat with for hours. I truly wish you all the best!
how many of us going threw the same thing are drawn to your videos, love you man and dont even know you, good luck from all of us and good luck to everyone else dealing with this. We got this
You really break down our steps beautifully. Staying sober and loving who you are and who you’ve been will set you free. Love this interview and know that we are all impulsive. Take it easy and live a great life.
Love Matthew's attitude! Seems like a genuine man.
Matthew, I’m so grateful to watch you and sharing your story. I needed to hear you today 🙏. I’ve been in and out of the rooms. Today I’m sober. Thank you for carrying the message. 🥰
I really enjoyed your interview, Matthew. Thank you for sharing, which is a powerful gift that helps so many people. We teach the best through our own life experiences, both good and bad. The best of everything for you on your path forward!
Hey Matthew. I wanted to tell you that I'm proud of you. I think you're doing pretty good and I hope you keep going. Loving ourselves is such a hurdle, much harder than stopping drug use, IMO. I also wanted to apologize for some comment I'd made in the past. I don't remember what it was but it wasn't very nice which is certainly more of a reflection on me than it is on you. I've been clean almost 9 years but I still have a lot of work to do, so I hope you can understand and forgive me. PS. I like your outfit 😊 and great taste in music. Hope we see you again. Oh yeah also you remind me of a much younger Jeff Bridges here.
Thank you for that! Can’t remember the comment either but it’s all good. I’ve been there and done that and understand completely ❤
@@MatthewAndrewDrakethank YOU. I hope I can take a page from your quickness to forgive.
@@morgenmachen2400 the realization is progress and trying is success
You are absolutely fantastic!!!! What an inspiration!!! God bless you and your loved ones always!
Awesome job Matt. very lucky to have that "Angel." I went to rehab @the Pheonix House in Venice in 2018. I've managed to stay sober from heroin. I'm up in Northern Cali now really struggling I have a spinal cord injury from a car accident and have not worked for 3 years and am fighting for disability. My only vehicle won't pass. I'm staying clean but I am really struggling with pain from injury. I'm fearful for my future. Please pray for me friends
I will pray for you ❤
Sending you prayers
YO!?? !!! Where You at deshb22 !!! Matthew saw your plea and responded let us know you're still Here and sober..
HOLD FAST
Sending prayers for you🙏🙏
This video is so motivational. Thank you!
God bless you and I feel the same. I've been sober 3yrs in May I'm so proud of you and myself. Keep doing 1 day at a time ❤
Nice interview. Thankyou Matt sharing honestly…
i have followed Mathew's story the whole way! i Thank you for being yourself. I hope your aspire to be the person you want to be!
So glad to see this update, I’ve been waiting. Congratulations to Matthew on your continued progress. Well done! ❤️
Matthew, I am SO happy for you ❤️
You are such a likeable, intelligent, nice person and you deserve this new life SO much.
I know it's not all pink and unicorns, it's a damn struggle at times.
But you are over the worst, I truly believe that.
I believe you are one of the few people who actually get out of addiction.
If you find a job, studies or something that really interest you, your life will be so much better.
For all people to thrive, we need something we are engaged in, at least for us people with addiction issues it's extremely important that we don't have to much time on our hands. We need to be engaged. Something exiting hopefully.
I hope you find your things.
Volunteering can be great.
I wish you all the best, Matthew, lots of love from Norway ❤️
Thank you for updating us and sharing how you have grown and learned.
Takes so much strength and courage to be that open about your personal life, choices, good and bad! Ultimately, it's wonderful (and a privilege), this glimpse into your life, to observe the sense of obvious compassion and pride you're discovering for yourself (i know in making assumptions here - could be wrong :) as your real hard fought efforts are starting to pay off. Looking forward to next update! Take care.
Ps... I posted that before you started talking about loving and accepting yourself.
Happy for you!
Best of luck to you!!! Thank you for sharing your story. It will help so many people🫶🫶🫶🫶🫶
You rock!! Congratulations and continued success. Wishing you all the best. Much love!💖
Well, here’s a friendly comment(!) You seem like a cool enough guy to me, and much respect to you for taking the steps you have to improve your physical/mental/spiritual health and being willing to talk so openly about it like this. All my best wishes to you man.
Matthew was my introduction to this channel 1st video “functioning addict” ive been growing with you Matthew.
Great with this follow-up!
All the best to you!
I’ve enjoyed this story. I started watching maybe a year ago while in active addiction. In part, these SWU vids prompted me to get into recovery. I’m now 3 months clean and sober. 😊
🎉🎉congratulations 🎊
What a difference, congrats m'dude! You have a similar attitude to the program that I do - which is to say: I don't love it, but know I need it! Cheers to willingness and resilience!
Keep up the great work. YOU ARE WORTH IT!!!
Matthew, I think you are a lovely young man! I have dealt with generational addiction. I finally broke the chain and you are definitely doing your program. For those people who are negative what do you get from the ugliness! Loved ones of addict can love their addicted loved one, respect boundaries and yes in the program there are times for ammends. But there comes a point after ammends you all have to let go of the past and look forward to a future. You have to stop treating your love one as an addict and as a regular human.
This is The Dude! Congratulations on your sobriety Matthew.
I’m really proud of this dude. He’s grown and learned SO much since the first video.
Mark, your portrait of Matthew is very beautiful! Nicely done. Matthew looks very kind and sweet in his portrait.
Mark recently did a memorial video for those SWU souls who died and I was hoping my favorites didn't come up. I was really happy when you didn't appear. Your here to make a difference Matthew and you are!
What a great interview! Wishing you all the best Matthew. Continue on your journey with faith!
Oh! I’m so grateful I watched this! We all need a little good news right now.
Dope tracksuit Matt! You're like a different person. It's like your soul is shining and really alive. You have done so much work on yourself. So happy for you and your relationship. The world is your oyster buddy. I remember watching your first interview and you were so narcissistic. Now you are so loving and humble
I have an almost identical history to this dude, but he speaks from a place of pride. He seems proud to have done all this shit, not remorseful. Strange.
I’ve just watched all of the interviews with Matthew, and it’s been very interesting and thought provoking. I’ve never taken anything, never been drunk, not a thing stronger than black tea. But I still feel a very strong familiarity with your journey so far. My drug of choice was an eating disorder and self harm. I’m diagnosed with adhd and definitely have tendencies towards addiction with seeking dopamine constantly and having a hard time regulating emotions. I’ve been in contact with healthcare so many times and relapsed so many times, and several of the lessons Matthew talks about here has been key in my recovery too. It took many years of hard work before I saw a pattern of less and less relapses and I’m so proud of myself that I powered through to the point I’m at today. Sometimes I still have to just tell myself to get under a blanket and wait until I’m in a better headspace before I make any kinds of decisions, but that’s okay.
So glad to see these positive changes. I hope you continue on your path of recovery and wish you and your girl the best! God bless.
Matthew, I have learned so much from you. We are all going through same scenarios in life but you are making progress and giving hope to those who see this video.
There’s an untold story behind Mathew’s journey, as expressed through the dedication of his anonymous angel support team. For every success I’m guessing there have been tenfold loses. It takes a special human to stay the course. Kudos to all involved !
Aren’t you the angel ?
Love this man's journey. I have watched all the episodes with him. His honesty is what is helpful to others, and I appreciate that he had the courage to be honest not only to us viewers but to himself.
Keep up the great work
I really enjoyed this interview. Good job, Matt. Keep your connection to your higher power and you will be well taken care of. The most important part of recovery in my opinion. There will be moments where you reach out and a human isn’t available. Your higher power always is.
damn man, I'm glad you're alive and still trying. Don't stop.
Portrait is incredible Mark!
Awesome interview and wish the best for Matt! You got this Matt have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Stay strong ❤
Thanks for sharing your story. I will pray for you and hope you can be an inspiration to others that struggle with addiction.
I am so over the moon for you Matthew!
You have a beautiful heart , and a beautiful life ahead of you!
You will help so many people with your story and your kindness.
Please know how important and special you are!! Lots of love to you , be well❤❤
Man, really glad to see you doing well. Your path to where you are now has been really cool and interesting to watch. Love how honest and open and unabashedly yourself you are. You're a good and cool dude. I wish you the best man. I subscribed to your channel.
"Live life on life's terms". That is well said! Simple but with a lot of meaning. I wish you to attain your dreams, Matthew. You are capable and you deserve it.
It's an AA talking point.
@@karenfryberger4260 Oh, I didn't know. Still, I like this statement!
i appreciated matthews story bc i too was a "functional" heroin addict for 10 years. now with 3 years sober i realize the level of delusion i was living in 🙃 congrats on your recovery and to anyone out there who is struggling if a heroin addict like me can do it u can too. u deserve recovery and a life beyond your wildest dreams. #wedorecover
I always love seeing Matthew's videos. Keep it up, dude!
Im so happy for this man! What a great story to listen to at the end of my day. Onward and upwards!