Jozef Tomkova

This morning, I wandered through the bustling market in Bratislava, savoring the familiar rhythm of my weekend routine. The vendors greeted me warmly as I picked up fresh vegetables and a loaf of bread. These simple exchanges bring a sense of normalcy and connection that I deeply value.

On my way back home, I passed an old arcade. The sight of it reminded me of a different time, when gambling had a tight grip on my life. It all started when my father let me play slot machines at a snack bar. Those moments were the few times we connected, and that feeling of being on the same wavelength stayed with me. By the time I was twelve, I was sneaking into pubs to play, often stealing money from my mother to fuel my growing addiction.

The years that followed were a blur of relentless gambling, debt, and despair. Even the birth of my child couldn’t break the cycle. I remember promising myself I would stop, but just five hours after my daughter was born, I was back at the slot machines. The addiction had consumed me completely.

It wasn’t until my debts reached an unmanageable €100,000 that I realized I had to make a change. Joining a self-help group was a humbling experience. Admitting my problem and accepting help was the hardest step, but it was also the most crucial. Over time, I learned to navigate my impulses and rebuild my life.

At 59, my life is much quieter and more stable. The specter of my past addiction is still there, but it no longer defines me. Instead, it serves as a reminder of the resilience it took to reclaim my life. As the day drew to a close, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the simple, peaceful life I’ve built, far removed from the chaos of my past.