A mom wrote to me: With addiction, no mother dreams that she would ever have to do the things she learns to do. How do we keep channels open with our children, while also keeping our boundaries clear? How do we manage self-care so that we can be there the next time, and the next time, and the time after that? Let us never give up on our children, and let us keep hope alive. If the worst were to happen, we can say, “I did the very, very, very best I could do.” Just keep accepting and loving where they are. We are warrior women fighting for clarity in the midst of a disease that brings chaos.
My reflection: There were times during my son’s fourteen-year addiction that I wanted to give up. I just wanted it all to go away, and there were times that I didn’t care if I lived or died. My hope was crushed, and I was devastated by what addiction was doing to my family.
Today’s Promise to consider: When our children are young, we never anticipate that our children will suffer with the disease of addiction. In the face of the chaos, we live a nightmare of pain and trauma. But we are mothers, and we must rise up and be strong. Let us dig deep. Let us engage our support groups and trust our higher powers. We are not alone. We can and must survive.
Dear Richard, You and Judy stood by me through many years of heartache. Thank you. You are in my strong prayers, and I’ll bombard the heavens for your health. Your family needs you. Blessing and love to you and Judy. xo
This is so true…a living nightmare. I also have to continue to pray and acknowledge that I have done everything in my power if the worst were to happen. Thank you for your meditations and I ask that you keep my son Erik in your prayers.
Dear Leslie, Acknolwedging that you have done everything in your power for your precious son is deeply important. We, as mothers, do everything possible to stop the addiction, but we are – sadly – powerless. I’ll keep Erik in my strong prayers. Two mothers, joined together in prayer, are powerful. My love to you.
Accepting that you have done the best you can do is key to maintaining our peace and serenity as we travel the path to recovery. Very wise words Libby.
Dear Pat, You are so right. Dr. MacAfee taught me that years ago – that we must accept that we’ve done the best we can do. Thanks for sharing your wisdom, and for staying close in strength and compassion. xo
Hello,
What you said is absolutely right, at this time we need to support ourself with positive mind set to recover from addiction.
I like your sentiment and points , Also your information will be helpful to a lot of people.
Very knowledgeable words Libby!!!
Thanks, Stefy, for your support. You and I walk together. Prayers for all our children. xo