From Empty Bottles to Full Custody

The Sobriety Daily Newsletter
May 16, 2025 | Stay Connected, Stay Sober

A Father’s Sobriety Victory

On December 1, 2021, Craig Jones hit rock bottom. Homeless, jobless, and battling daily alcohol and drug use, his life was in shambles. He had lost everything—his home, his relationships, and his sense of self. But that day marked the beginning of a transformation that would change his life forever.

With the support of his partner, who took him back after he proved he could stay sober, Craig began to rebuild. His parents offered him a small room to rent, and his children were overjoyed to see him without a bottle in his hand. Over time, Craig regained full custody of his children—a milestone he once thought impossible.

Craig’s advice to others struggling with addiction is simple yet profound: Acceptance is key. He emphasizes the importance of accepting that sobriety is a lifelong commitment and that excuses only hold you back. For Craig, admitting he was powerless over alcohol and drugs was the first step toward reclaiming his life.

Today’s Mantra

My lowest point was not the end—it was the turning point. Today, I rise stronger.

Sobriety News

1. Sobriety checkpoints will be held in Stark County (Ohio) and Hesperia (California) this weekend, with Ohio's occurring on May 16 and California's running Friday and Saturday (5 p.m.–1 a.m.). The Tennessee Highway Patrol also announced statewide checkpoints for May 2025. Authorities warn they will aggressively target impaired drivers during these operations.

2. SOBRLIFE has officially relaunched as a global sober movement with its new digital hub, www.sobrlife.com, evolving from a small support group into a vibrant lifestyle brand and community. The rebrand celebrates clarity, purpose, and empowerment, aiming to redefine modern sobriety as a fulfilling, celebrated choice. With a bold vision to lead the sober-living space, SOBRLIFE now offers daily inspiration and connection for those thriving alcohol- and drug-free.

3. Rupe Taylor, a 35-year-old recovering alcoholic and PGA club pro, braved rainy conditions to practice alone at Quail Hollow ahead of the PGA Championship—until serendipitously encountering major winner Patrick Reed. One of 20 PGA professionals in the field, Taylor aims to use his platform to share his 12-year sobriety journey, sparked by a rock-bottom incident that landed him in the hospital and nearly jail. His story underscores redemption through golf, proving second chances can lead to competing alongside the world’s best.

4. Tate Whitlinger, a recovering addict, found sobriety and purpose through running after battling addiction for 20 years. Now a leader of the "Grateful Runners" group, he credits the sport with giving him community and clarity, inspiring others at events like the Fox Cities Marathon. Though a decade sober, Tate emphasizes that recovery is an ongoing journey—and hope is always possible.

Tip of the Day

"Swap the Craving for Motion"

When temptation strikes, move your body first:

• A 10-minute walk/jog disrupts craving cycles

• Exercise releases natural mood boosters (no hangover included)

• Builds discipline that fuels sobriety

Join Our Community

Our Sobriety Facebook Groups alone amount to over 650,000 members and we’re giving you the chance to be apart of a solid community of sober individuals, so come join us over on our Patreon and become a part of the Sobriety Daily family and here’s what you’ll have access to:

• Facebook Group Chats (These chats are released daily and very active)

• Discord Community Chat

• Whatsapp Community Chat

• Extra Newsletter Coverage

• Merch Discounts

• Access to a solid army of sober individuals

Stay Strong, Stay Inspired.
The Sobriety Daily Team