“Stories” In Addiction Recovery

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STORIES.... NA, AA LEADS, PERSONAL LIFE STORY...

"TALK FOR SOMEONE WHO CANNOT FIND THE WORDS YET."

This cathartic cleanse of a drunk or drug filled past. This need to hear someone else's pain to validate ours. Where else in this world would you see people gathering to describe a litany of their worst moments? Most who have truly touched the fires of life do not speak of them. But this is not necessarily the case with alcohol or drug recovery.

Perhaps stories help fill the box that addiction leaves void. A way of trying to explain away a wrong. A way of vindicating ourselves. If you can hear how far I have come then maybe I am good now, forgiven. If you agree with me then I am ok. If you don't agree then you just have not been where I've been or know what I know.

Perhaps our stories indicate a deep down understanding that there was more choice in our drinking or drugging than we let on. Perhaps knowing that others have violated their standards makes mine less hurtful. To accept my story is to accept me. To hear my story and not cast me out is to validate me.

Perhaps our story is our lifeline that can bring us out from the darkest of memories and make meaning from the pain. It can remind us of what was and who we have become. It can show others what is possible and be the ladders that help others rise out of some of the most horrible and difficult situations.

Perhaps you are only as sick as your secrets and making them public releases them. Alcohol and drugs are powerful, but so are you. And proof of this comes from the words you speak. That you can talk of what was, indicates what is has changed. You made what happened real, gave it a name, a story and now are owned by nothing other than the memories you choose to keep.

Whatever your reason, whatever your motive, this cathartic cleanse of an alcohol or drug filled past can be powerful and life changing. However, use it wisely. If you choose to engage in it remember your stories carry with them the hurt and heartache you have caused others. Your cleanse should not be at the expense of others. What becomes your story of healing was once the dagger in a loved ones heart.

"THERE MAY BE THAT ONE DAY WHEN YOU ARE IN THAT ONE MEETING WHERE YOUR STORY CHANGES A LIFE." - C

Tim Welch, LPCC Mental Health Counseling,
Newark, Ohio Licking County Online Therapy.  Virtual Counseling for Alcohol Addiction, Drug Addiction, Anxiety, Depression & Mental Health Issues.

www.twelch.com

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