Dharmaholics are Happy, Sober, and Freakin' Awesome

I have known Mike Mather for twelve years and in that time have been a grateful recipient of his ongoing kindness and gentle guidance, as I too, walk the challenging path of recovery. I have used many of his mantras during this time and one of my favourites is “Breathe, Smile, Go Slowly and Drink Water”. This was especially useful in the early days of my recovery. I have listened to and watched him continuously put into practice the tools he has learned by combining Buddhist principles with the 12 steps of AA, to arrest and manage a seemingly hopeless condition. He has done this with integrity of purpose born from deep personal pain and suffering.

I think I am well-placed to express how much I admire Mike for the way he has handled himself in his recovery, showing enormous strength of character not to resume his addiction despite so many difficulties along the way. He is extremely intelligent with a wicked sense of humour. His capacity for self-reflection and desire to get to the root of the problem have helped him to achieve wisdom that we all aspire to. He remains inquisitive, loving and generous, humble and disciplined.