A little over two years ago I boarded a bus heading back home from a prison in South Dakota. Before being released, I was going to have to spend some time in a local halfway house.

My wife Julie asked if there was anything I needed for my stay at the halfway house. I asked for the basic necessities. I also asked for some mouthwash. After spending a day on a bus I knew my mouth would feel like the inside of an old gym shoe. It would be refreshing to be able to rinse my mouth and also benefit anyone I came in contact with.

The bus arrived late, so my family and I hurried to get to the halfway house. This was one time I could not afford to be late. Rushing left no time to worry about fresh breath.

Upon my arrival I had to check in my personal effects. When I handed them the mouthwash I was informed it was not allowed because it contained alcohol. They explained how I would be required to take breathalyzer tests and mouthwash would register as alcohol in my system. Alcohol would lead to a probation violation. A probation violation would lead to a bus trip back to prison.

God gave me a little reminder that drinking alcohol was something I needed to watch out for. Something I had a propensity for prior to my incarceration, but now, like so many other things in my past life I can do without.
If I drink anything stronger than communion wine it is done only in moderation. Some would say that in itself is a miracle. I will never forget God’s little reminder. Reminding me to never go back to the way I use to be.

• little reminder