I have worked in some capacity for the duration of my 14 years of my current employment.

For over 8 years, this is where my office was.

The last day it was, I had a manic episode.

Since then, I never thought much about it.

Until today.

I took a break and went to the vending machines.

I’ve had more of a relationship with them in this building than most humans I meet in real life.

Several Coca Cola’s a day.

Several attempts to curb caffeine.

Finally on that hot August day last year, I stopped drinking straight up Coca Cola’s.

I’ve switched to caffeine free.

My body and my mind are truly thankful for doing it.

I’m thankful.

Those around me are thankful.

I’m so much better without it

My mental health is so much better.

Some physical symptoms have improved.

Until that August day, I had never thought I could step completely away from the caffeine

But being over a year now, I’ve done it!

Now I’m planning on moving onto doing more about my body.

Healthier beverages and Treadmill workouts.

In baby steps.

This building.

The vending machines in it

No longer staples in my life.

I have survived.

I will survive.

And be better.