I no longer feel sorry for this self-centered, out-of-control woman. Yes, addiction is horrible and hard to beat. But she has had so many chances, and is in no way remorseful, and has been caught again and again lying and cheating and trying to manipulate the system, or use whatever is left of her “star power” and looks to get a better deal. She needs a long stretch in jail, followed by a long stretch in a halfway house. Then she needs to get serious about a drug & alcohol program that will keep her sober after she is on her own again. Until then, screw her.
Classic description of an alcoholic. Been there, done that. (except for the looks and star power) This is EXACTLY the way we behave(d).
"Horrible and hard" does not even scratch the surface.
I have seen addiction cripple even the most hard working, intelligent and strong people. It is truly a mental illness where nothing else matters to the person except for that substance or behavior. Not their children, not their friends, not even themselves. I've seen people lose all their teeth, organs and body parts to addiction and still not stop. Formerly good husbands smoking crack in the basement while their family is crying and being evicted from their home. Men dressing up as women to sell themselves for dope.
Even if you are clean for decades, it still follows you around forever. Imagine the most charming and convincing salesman in the world sitting on your shoulder 24/7 and constantly telling you to do it “just one last time”. Constantly reminding you of how great giving in feels, rationalizing everything and helping you figure out how to lie/cheat/steal to get it. It truly is a form of “possession”.
IMO, there is no cure for many addicts and they can never be free. Nomatter how much jail, rehab, etc. The only way they stay on track is someone else watching 24/7 to keep them honest.