Are you part of the Freedom Squad?

Every year, the 4th of July invites us to celebrate the birth of a nation and the freedoms that define it. Fireworks, parades, and cookouts remind us of the courage it took to pursue a different kind of life—one rooted in independence, self-determination, and hope.

For those of us in recovery, that message hits close to home.

A New Kind of Freedom
Recovery is more than abstaining from drugs or alcohol—it’s about reclaiming your life. It’s about breaking free from the chains of addiction and rediscovering the person you were always meant to be. That’s a powerful kind of freedom, one that’s worth recognizing and protecting, not just on Independence Day but every day.

Like our nation’s founders, people in recovery have demonstrated immense courage, making brave, often difficult choices. They’ve chosen to face pain rather than numb it, to accept support rather than go it alone, and to build a life rooted in purpose rather than chaos. The 4th of July is a time to honor that strength—and to remind ourselves and others that recovery is worth celebrating.

Creating New Traditions
We know that the summer holidays can be tough. Celebrations often include alcohol or other triggers that may bring back old habits or painful memories. But recovery gives us the freedom to reimagine what these traditions look like.

This might mean hosting your own sober barbecue, joining a recovery-friendly event, or simply reflecting on how far you’ve come while watching fireworks light up the sky. You have the power to choose how you celebrate. That’s the essence of freedom in recovery.

You’re Not Alone
At Ten16, we believe no one should have to navigate recovery alone. Whether it’s your first holiday sober or your tenth, we’re here to walk alongside you with unwavering compassion, encouragement, and connection. Recovery doesn’t take a day off—and neither do we.

This Independence Day, let’s honor the freedom that comes from living drug-free. Let’s celebrate the resilience it takes to choose recovery. And let’s keep building a future where everyone has the chance to thrive.