This Island Called Sober

To my brothers and sisters

It's been a long year

On this island called Sober

I'm riding a tidal wave of emotion

Twelve months I've kept my oath

And today's the day

I throw my bottle into the ocean

Inside's my story

And some musings to think over

I pray it helps you navigate

As you walk this island called Sober

Are you searching for the promised land?

Well, Sober's no paradise

Ohhh, it'll be like, you're dying

Reborn in the womb of pain

Sweating out the terrors

Until you're cried out

Until you've dried out

You'll hate this f***in place

And if you make it to the other side

It's a prison chain gang, breaking rocks

So when you feel defeated

And inner peace won't settle in

When you think you are lost

My friend, please take the win

When once again, you can say

You kept you dry another day

We've all made the same journey

Brethren, through misery

We celebrate each small victory

Knowing the challenge is far from over

So be proud of how far you've come

In navigating this island called Sober

Ohh, there'll be days you'll wake up thirsty

The desert sun ain't what makes you sweat

Yes, you'll be longing for a taste

Because on this island

Coffee or juice is what they bring

And it's all so damn --- sobering

The amber bottle holds your message

But the whole story is yours to write

And you chose your ending…

I hope your day comes to throw your bottle

Into the ocean

So when you feel defeated

And inner peace won't settle in

When you think you are lost

My friend, please take the win

When once again, you can say

You kept you dry another day

We've all made the same journey

Brethren, through misery

We celebrate each small victory

Knowing the challenge is far from over

So be proud of how far you've come

In navigating this island called Sober

This island called Sober

© 2026 John Osinga. All rights reserved. St. Thomas, Ontario, Canada.