My son and I had a conversation about how families survive trauma, particularly with addiction: The dynamics around addiction are complicated and personal to each family. Addiction brings us to our knees, but we don’t have to collapse. Every family trauma – including things like infidelity, financial ruin, legal issues, and death – severely tests us. We have a choice: we can either crumble (which is sometimes the best response in moments of deep pain), or we can gather ourselves up, lean into our community, and push forward. My dad used to tell me, “Daughter, with your children there is no quit.” Families suffering from addiction have the choice to quit, but we also have the choice to prevail. Addiction and other traumas can make us stronger.
My reflection: There is no perfect family. Relationships are inevitably messy, hard, and hurtful. Pain is a bearer of many lessons.
Today’s Promise to consider: Family traumas happen, and every family has them. Addiction is particularly difficult because it wants to suffocate us and take our loved ones away from us, and themselves. But we can survive. We can use these challenges to strengthen our faith, set boundaries, and learn to communicate with compassion. The quality of the family doesn’t depend on living a problem-free existence. It depends on how we navigate life’s many hard issues.
Well said Libby! A great reminder to ever give up. Grateful to you for your continued support of parents of addicted children.
Dear Pat, I’m grateful to you for all you’ve done to help in this journey. You and I have learned (and continue to learn) together.
So so true about the strength we can find. I know to this day finding your book your words of truth helped us navigate with more wisdom. because The love never dies but exhaustion can interfere with clarity and decisions. Big picture thinking makes for resilient compassionate hearts . Love and gratitude for you three.
My dearest Joy, You are so right: “The love never dies, but exhaustion can interfere with clarity and decisions.” I join you in prayer and good thoughts for more “resilient compassionate hearts.” My love to you. Our love to you.