[wintertime]

My husband and I live in a part of the city where our church locates recovering addicts and those released from prison. They get **intensive** support from our congregation our denomination in the form of free apartments, food, transportation vouchers, medical and dental support, and employment in a supportive environment. Church social workers visit even make daily visits at first.

Even with all this support it is rare to see a success. It's like watching a constant train wreck in slow motion It is sad because we do become very fond of them and are always praying for them and hoping they will succeed. Few do.

[headstamp 2]

[Even with all this support it is rare to see a success. It’s like watching a constant train wreck in slow motion It is sad because we do become very fond of them and are always praying for them and hoping they will succeed. Few do.]

That’s because recovery comes from within. I had to learn that the hard way with an ex-girlfriend who put me through the ringer with her drinking.

The second time I had her put in jail she woke up and is now sober for more than 6 years and leading a productive life.

I stay at arms length from her now and I also learned a lot about myself during the insanity. I learned that you will never “make” someone seek treatment unless they are willing themselves. Also you need to establish boundaries with everyone you meet in your life including family.

I’ll never think about addiction the same way again.