Dear friends,
Today’s blog features a letter to the editor of Seven Days, Burlington, Vermont’s free newspaper, and was written by a former user (his words). I was so moved by it, I cut it out and have carried it in my wallet for weeks. If you know someone– or are someone–looking for help, please reflect on these words, so simply and bravely stated by a man who has found a way to turn his life around. The full letter, along with the article referred to, can be found at www.SevenDays.com.
“Thank you for your coverage of opioid addiction and its victims (“Death by Drugs,” January 25)….
…I spent a good deal of my twenties lying to everyone and I can say that the old adage ‘Honesty is the best policy’ simply couldn’t be truer. It’s hard, because to be honest as an addict often means giving up those last shreds of pride and dignity you are holding tightly. But don’t allow your shame to hinder your recovery. Use yor support systems and be honest with them and with yourself. I promise that you will feel a weight lift….
…Think about the things you want to do in your life, and do them. Don’t allow yourself to wallow in recovery. Activity and success are great deterrents of relapse, as is honesty.
To those who know people who are struggling, the previous advice holds for you. Honesty–embrace it. Turning a blind eye because it’s uncomfortable solves nothing. Keep at it, be direct, and let the person who is struggling know you are there for them.
I hope everyone struggling right now finds their peace.”
–David Zeidler
I couldn’t say it any better.
Everlastingly,
Be🐝