We recently connected with Jon Oswald and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Jon , thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.
Ten years ago I took risks almost daily. Unfortunately, most of them would be classified as “risky behaviors”.
am a recovering alcoholic (and musician) with ten years sobriety , one day at a time.
I won’t bore you with a drunk-a-log of risks taken with expected negative results. II’d like focus on the risks I’ve taken in sobriety and the gratitude I’ve experienced.
The first risk was walking thru the doors of a 12 step meeting and admittIng that I was an alcoholic. It felt so unnatural saying those words aloud. “ I’m Jon and I’m an alco-alka-alcoholic”. I actually stammered. A fond memory now.
I had no idea who these people were or their stories but I had heard that I could find help there. I listened, was presented with literature and told to “keep coming back”. I didn’t listen.
I figured I could do it myself . I was adamant about quitting drinking, was exercising regularly, started going to church, etc. I put together 150 good days. Day 151 was not a good day. The only tool I had developed was physical activity
A run didn’t help. It was pouring rain at the courts. I was a rat in a cage..
It started with a 40 oz beer, then wine, then shots , then jail within 7hours of the first sip .
The gift of desperation sent me back to those 12 step rooms derelict and defeated. One day at a time I relied on my group to guide me to the next right thing until I could develop a spiritual relationship with a higher power I could depend on. This development has given me so much. My world consists of things I’d never even dreamed of! Love, Peace, Kindness, tolerance, empathy and a desire to help others. To get out of self. To forgive. To be of service.
Today, I sit in peace. The Sun is shining . My head is clear. The flowers are still blooming in December and life is beautiful.
Jon , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I’m Jon Oswald Singer/Songwriter based in Atlanta, GA. I’m most proud of being able to make a living as a musician, working w/ children for my city’s Music and Movement program.
I write songs that tell a story that can take you to peace.
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
My goal , whether live performance or studio , is to touch one person enough that they feel the peace I have in my head and heart.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
Connection to another human being.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.jonoswald.com
- Instagram: @ojonny
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=677876248
- Twitter: @ojonny
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@jonoswald4306?si=yv8TPcdNlcm31kfW
Image Credits
@gakimedia