Courage

I had the special opportunity today to be with someone taking a courageous step in their life- a first appointment with a doctor to help them with their addiction. I only know the tiniest bit of this path they’ve walked, but I know it has been hard and ugly. It has been a very long time since this person I love has felt the peace and joy that comes with freedom. It was a good day to see them walk out with a little spark of hope that maybe things can be different for them. I was so proud of the courage they showed and the humility they demonstrated to take this step. For their choice to be vulnerable and speak openly about this part of their life that makes them feel so much shame and self loathing. So courageous. So inspiring.

Walking with this person for just the littlest bit has helped me have more compassion and understanding for people who struggle with addiction. The advice is to always “get help.” But getting help isn’t that easy. Help is actually quite expensive. Most people struggling with addiction aren’t walking around with lots of money in their pocket. Most of the people who need this “help” simply can’t afford it. Going to a doctor costs a few hundred dollars. So does going to a counselor. Do you need medication? That will be a few more hundred. Rehab? We are looking at thousands and thousands of dollars. The bottom line is that getting help is expensive and people who are struggling with addiction most likely don’t have the means to pay for the things that might help.

My heart is so full of love and admiration for everyone striving to get clean.