[Date]

 

To the Secretary of State (Administrative Hearing Section):

 

I am writing on behalf of my stepson, John Smith.

 

I have been fortunate to have John in my life for the past 14 years. In that time, I have witnessed both the harm that alcohol caused him and the remarkable growth he has shown since he stopped drinking on [date of sobriety]. In this letter, I hope to convey my unique perspective on John's readiness to have his driver's license returned: who he is as a person, the impact drinking had on his life, and the strength of his commitment to recovery.

 

First, I want you to know that John is, and has always been, a good person with a kind heart. He is a hard worker with a great deal of integrity. His relationship with alcohol, though relatively brief, had a serious negative effect on his life and on the family who loves and supports him. The areas most affected were his judgment behind the wheel, his attitude toward his own health and education, and his connection to the family members who care about him.

 

Since John made the decision to stop drinking, I have seen profound changes in each of those areas. He has taken full accountability for the consequences of driving under the influence. He has made a complete turnaround in how he cares for himself physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. He is attending our local community college and is steadily employed with a good company that supports his education by paying his tuition. He has also reconnected with the family members who care deeply about his well-being. John no longer spends time around others who drink, and he is actively involved in pro-social activities that support his ongoing sobriety and recovery.

 

Finally, I want to express my sincere belief that John has learned from his mistakes and has earned the privilege of having his driver's license returned. I say this because I have watched his commitment to sobriety, health, and responsible citizenship over the past two years. I also want to assure you that both his mother and I are fully committed to supporting John in his continued recovery.

 

Sincerely,

 

Jim Smith

[Date]

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To Whom It May Concern:

​

I am writing on behalf of my son, John Smith.

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John is well aware of how I feel about alcohol. I do not allow it in my home, I do not drink, and I have no tolerance for the irresponsible behavior that so often comes with it. Because my feelings on this are so strong, John used to avoid my company, sometimes going several weeks without calling or seeing me.

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Although I never actually saw John drink, the signs were unmistakable. In the past, he received alcohol-related charges, kept company with people who drank, spent his time at local bars, and lost the motivation to move his life forward in any positive or productive way.

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When John chose sobriety, I saw concrete changes in his behavior that I believe are the direct result of removing alcohol from his life. He now talks to me every single day, and I see him at least once every couple of weeks. He has returned to spending the holidays in our home and seems perfectly content with a soda or a cup of coffee. He no longer spends time at bars; instead, he fills his time with work, hunting, fishing, and golf.

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John has grown remarkably in his sobriety. He works to improve himself continually, living healthier and moving his life forward. What pleases me most is that John has not only committed to living alcohol-free but has embraced a healthier lifestyle overall. He has changed his diet, works out, and is currently working to quit smoking. He has enrolled at the local community college and is pursuing an associate's degree in Business Administration. He also spoke with his manager about advancing his education and career, and the company has been fully supportive, even offering to fund his educational costs.

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John has a strong support system within his family. Between his brother, his stepfather, and me, he has people ready to support him in every area of his life.

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I sincerely believe John recognizes the mistakes he made as a young adult, and he has made every effort to become a better person for himself, his family, and his community.

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Sincerely,

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Jane Smith