True to the rock star stereotype, this was not my first stint in rehab, but I was really hoping it would be my last. Something was different this time. I had no computer, no phone, no tablet, and no ability to make music other than a pen and paper. That was all the same as before, but this time, I connected with something that I really wanted to explore. And since I was about to be plugged back in, I was ready to get started on my research.

I bounded down the steps toward the car. The only thing I carried was a tattered book. I couldn't remember the last time I was full of this kind of energy and optimism. I was looking forward to my life after substance abuse. I had a million ideas for new songs.

And I had a girl to meet.