Story #1 - Addictions

Why am I doing this project?  I think it is easier to share as a story.  This could be anybody's story, but today, it is mine.  Addiction is something that affects everybody in some way, personally, emotionally, or financially.  In my opinion, it is a disease that can't be understood easily and some would argue that it's not a disease.  Not my point.  I'm only sharing my perspective and experience.

I am a person who has been greatly affected by addictions.  I have lost family and friends to the drugs and alcohol.  Sometimes people give up hope.  I never do.  As long as a person is alive, I believe there is hope.  I also believe in miracles.  This is one of my personal stories of Hope, Healing, & Happiness.  I hope it inspires you to share yours.

The name and relationship of this person is not important and will remain anonymous.   So, I will just say this persons name is Chelsea (because I always liked that name).  I went to meet Chelsea at the breakfast I know she attends that is hosted 7 days a week by the community she lives in for people like herself who have struggled for any number of reasons.  I thought the breakfast started at 6:30am but it started at 7:30. Disheartened, I spoke with a volunteer and left my card with a phone number on it to pass on to Chelsea if he could.

As I was heading to my appointment, my heart jumped at the sight of Chelsea walking towards me.  I pulled my car over, and parked it in the middle of the road.  She reminded me, I would probably want to pull over to the curb.  In a matter of a few short minutes I was told she has been sober for 10 months which is the longest stretch of sobriety I have seen her go through since childhood.  She has a job, and a place to live, and is excited about joining us for the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday.  Hope, Healing, and Happiness overcame me all at once.  She was crying and I was crying and we hugged.

This is just the beginning of what is to come.  I can hardly sleep.  I was so excited when I saw her I forgot to even get her phone number.  When I opened the door to give her a hug, I forgot to put my car in park and it stalled out.   So you can see, I was just a little excited.

I believe sharing these stories will be healing to me and to those who experience them.  Thanks for letting me share my story with you.