I got sober in 1989 and at six weeks sober went to see my favorite band, the Grateful Dead. I had seen them 15 times while I was using drugs and drinking. This time was different, and I felt awkward and I felt like I did not fit in. I was with old friends and they were kind in letting me hang with them, but I was now the odd man out. I somehow found a sober support group called The Wharf Rats. They held check in meetings at the intermission of the concert. It was enough to know I was not the only one at the show who was choosing not to drink or get high.

Now I go to music festivals and wonder if there is a sober support group there. We have done the looking and found which groups and festivals have sober support groups, sober camping areas and have check in meetings. We have found other sober support groups hosting sober tailgates at sporting events. I understand how important it is to have community and to know that I can still have fun with other people who have decided to have fun and not get drunk or high.