At Leaving Mayhem, we’re inspired every day by stories of resilience, and Bernardo’s journey is one that truly embodies our mission to leave mayhem behind and create a life of purpose, faith, and community. His story isn’t just about overcoming addiction; it’s about transformation, commitment, and the courage to help others find their way.
Living in Gustine, California, Bernardo has faced challenges that would break most people.
Addiction took hold of his life, taking him down dark paths and away from his true potential.
But on 9/16/2022, he made the decision to break free and start a new life.
This date marks not only his clean date but also the beginning of a powerful journey that has allowed him to inspire others along the way.
Reflecting on his journey, Bernardo often says, “If God’s allowing you to recreate your life, don’t take it for granted, because you might not get another chance at the experience.”
He recognizes that his recovery is a gift but also a responsibility.
For him, the path forward required faith, humility, and the courage to surrender.
“It was up to me to surrender,” he shares, acknowledging that real change came only when he let go and accepted that he couldn’t do it alone.
Bernardo’s recovery journey has been grounded in the principles of the 12-step program and his faith in a power greater than himself.
He emphasizes the importance of having a sponsor, working through the steps, and building a relationship with this higher power.
But for Bernardo, recovery is not just about following steps – it’s about giving back.
In his words, “Iron sharpens iron,” and he believes that by supporting others, he strengthens himself and the entire recovery community.
Today, as a dedicated tradesman, Bernardo lives a life of hard work, service, and love.
He’s not only rebuilt his own life but also actively helps others in their journeys.
He sponsors people in recovery, offering guidance and support to those seeking sobriety, and he also dedicates time to running recovery meetings every Friday and Sunday in his community.
Through these meetings, he creates a space for people to connect, share their struggles, and find hope, just as he did when he first started his own path to recovery.
Beyond his work in the trades and his commitment to recovery, Bernardo is a father to two children – a daughter and a son.
His family is a driving force in his life, and he’s quick to acknowledge that every choice he makes today is for them as much as it is for himself.
He often advises others not to compare their journeys to anyone else’s, saying, “Stop comparing your life to others’ lives.”
From his own experience, he knows that comparison can be a distraction from focusing on your own progress.
Bernardo is a firm believer that every day in recovery is a chance to grow stronger and make a difference in someone else’s life.
For him, it’s not about reaching perfection but about showing up, one day at a time.
He attributes his transformation to a foundation of prayer and unwavering faith, knowing that each day he continues to surrender, he builds a life of purpose and fulfillment.
If you’re new to recovery, Bernardo’s advice is simple but powerful: find a sponsor, work the steps, and surrender.
Recovery isn’t about being perfect; it’s about making consistent progress.
It’s about rebuilding your life, one step, one prayer, one act of service at a time.
His journey proves that no matter how deep into addiction someone may be, with faith, community, and determination, real change is possible.
At Leaving Mayhem, we’re proud to share stories like Bernardo’s because they show that recovery isn’t just a goal – it’s a way of life.
He’s proof that with the right support, anyone can create a life filled with purpose and peace, leaving the mayhem of addiction behind and stepping into the light of a new beginning.
Check out Bernardo Instagram here.
