What we relate to affects us more than what doesn’t. Today we may know Lane Kiffin as a reliable and capable Ole Miss HC who led the Rebels to a 10-3 season. But a few years ago, he was no stranger to alcohol addiction. His past struggles opened his eyes and heart to people going through similar episodes. And he shared one touching story that holds a message that anything could happen with a willing heart and mind. 

On his new Instagram story on January 10, Lane Kiffin posted an inspiring story of a couple who initially looked beyond repair from their addiction. Nobody believed they would get better or sober, but their story turned into one of those uplifting and motivating lessons. The couple later on gave up their bad habits and even welcomed children of their own as mature and capable parents. Kiffin’s caption sums up his emotions—“This is amazing. Chills. Miracles can happen. Simple not easy.”

If anyone understands the consequences of being an alcoholic, it’s Lane Kiffin. We’re talking about a guy who redeemed himself after falling into the trenches with his alcohol addiction. The 49-year-old was already facing addiction problems while at Oakland and USC, though it was a less-known fact then. But it only degraded his career growth, his health, and his relationship with his loved ones.

Lane Kiffin’s plight may not have been as severe as the couple in the reel. But who knows what addiction could turn you into if you fail to contain the urge! Years after the positive transformation, he was able to look back and confidently say, “I’m still not perfect, still have my moments. But there’s a freedom in not feeling like you need a drink to celebrate a big win or get over a tough loss.” Sounds liberating! So, every redemption story only makes him grateful for the timely decision he made four years ago when he quit alcohol. 

Lane Kiffin continues to find strength in his decision

This isn’t the only redemption story that Lane Kiffin shared regarding alcohol addiction. Back in December, he also shared Bradley Cooper‘s amazing story of his road to recovery after being a slave to alcohol in his late 20s. The award-winning actor mentioned that his sober journey had been “beautiful” and “unbelievable.” An addict pulling their lives together to transform into a completely different person could be one of the most wholesome things to watch. 

Addictions, no matter the substance, can steal anyone’s best years and moments. As the saying goes, too much of anything is too much! We might want to consider Lane Kiffin’s valuable advice—“For those of you that may have something holding you back from being the best version of yourself, I encourage you that you can do it… We only have one shot at this life on earth. Go be the best you can be.”

Lane Kiffin’s resolution and his ability to stick with it only prove his credibility and his determination to get better. That’s something admirable.