This is part of a series of monthly posts that reference many conversations with Dr. MacAfee. Thanks, Doc.
A dear friend of mine and Dr MacAfee’s told me: Dr MacAfee often reminded me of the importance of taking time for self care and time to nurture myself so that I could deal with everything going on within the family and still be true to myself. Addiction, he told me, is a family disease. As a mother, I tried to shoulder the load of destruction that addiction brought within my family. Addiction affects everyone in the family in different ways for years to come.
My reflection: Addiction takes over the family and leaves no hostages. It’s relentless in its hunger to destroy everyone. When Jeff was in active addiction, I tried to protect my family, but it was impossible. Addiction was far stronger than I was strong.
Today’s Promise to consider: Compassion defined Dr. MacAfee. He had compassion for the addict and for the family. He helped me to learn how to Stay Close, but out of the chaos as I continued to love my suffering child. He taught me that self preservation wasn’t selfish, but essential.
Beautiful… so grateful to you and Jeff for sharing his wisdom, compassion, and kind heart.
Heartfelt thanks,
Nanci
Libby you speak such truth and from the heart Thank you.
Such a blessing to find that someone is using what Dr MacAfee teached. I was a student and an intern under him and Donald Britt. I consider it the biggest honor of my life. My passion to work with and for those struggling with addiction was fostered and developed by these 2 people. Such as Doc, I am dedicating my life as a therapist serving our saints in recovery. Thank you for ur posts and keep them coming!