December 14th, 2025
The Universe has been pretty clever and downright symbolic in the way it sends me godwinks — little confirmations that I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be with 3-21 No Kiddin’ and with my life’s purpose.
December 14th is one of those sacred dates for me, wrapped in gratitude and cosmic irony. March 21st carries its own story too… but that one is for another time.
Fifty years ago today, a beautiful human was born. People have described him as an angel on earth, a friend, a favorite artist, therapy in human form, an advocate, an actor, a perfumer — the list goes on.
To me, he is a mentor, a mirror, and a symbol of hope and inspiration. His name is Justin, and today he turns 50.
Here’s the godwink: 12/14 also marks the date of my last chaotic, drunken, out-of-alignment night — the final chapter of a life I no longer live. Celebrating 6 years sober today! The irony is that when I quit drinking, I barely knew who Justin was. I didn’t witness his using days. I didn’t understand the darker, heavier music. But over these last few years — through dozens of shows and thousands of hours immersed in Blue October and Justin’s world — I began to understand him… and myself. I had no idea that my clean date would be the same as his birthdate. This serves as one more reason to stay sober.
In recovery, I prioritized getting to as many shows as possible. That’s my version of self-care. My therapy. My way of staying connected to something that lifts me higher.
Yes, I learned lessons about music — how to feel it, how to write, how to be fully present at a show — but that isn’t what keeps pulling me back. What I’m really seeking is his example and his words.
He has created a community we call Blue Family — people from all around the country and world, coming together like family at every show, supporting each other behind the scenes in life and on social media. He collects beautiful people!
He shows us how to be gracious, how to love, how to live free — free from drama, free from other people’s choices, free from addiction, and free from negativity. He teaches me humility, kindness, and authenticity by simply living them.
I am in awe of the energy he puts out and gives to others. Recently I asked him if it was ever too much, and he looked at me like he didn’t understand the question. In reality, I didn’t understand. It wasn’t until a few days later that I saw this clip for the first time and got my answer:
If link doesn't work- What Drives Me - Justin Furstenfeld
https://youtu.be/2HEHd-k7zFg?si=B2Yopct_JgcghxcD
Sobriety, as wonderful as it is, isn’t always easy — even six years later. A few months ago, I sat on the floor paralyzed with exhaustion and dark thoughts, unsure how to keep going. I was dealing with someone who reminded me of how Justin describes himself in active addiction, while also going through major transition in my own life.
Then his voice showed up in my head: Get back up.
I asked myself, What would Justin do?
I ask myself that often. It always brings me back to gratitude and forward motion.
Going back to GRATITUDE — every time.
That is what Justin teaches me.
Happy Birthday, Justin Furstenfeld!
It is a true privilege to see you, know you, and love you.
I am so grateful you were born.