A mother wrote to me:I’ve found strength in a very close Nar-Anon group and continue to attend meetings regularly. My husband, my son’s sister, and I are here for him when HE is ready to change. We know we can’t force him to change – we’ve tried. After three failed rehab attempts, we have nothing else to give him, only love.
My reflection: Dr. MacAfee says that addiction takes the healthiest parts of love and smashes them into worry, helplessness, and hopelessness. Waiting for our addicted child to return to us is like walking through hell, but there are hundreds of thousands of people who are suffering just as we are.
Today’s Promise: In family groups like Al-Anon or Nar-Anon, we discover that we are not alone. We find other families who understand our pain, heartache, and powerlessness. Today, let us not isolate ourselves. Let us take the step to accept help from other parents who know our pain. Today, we’ll reach out our hand and trust that someone will reach back.
Hello Libby, I have to tell you that I look forward to Thursday’s, just so I can read your blog. Thank you for your help, guidance and inspiration! I also keep your book on my nightstand as a constant reminder to “Stay Close”. What I am wondering is if you know whether Dr. MacAfee has written anything? I think he his advice to you and your son was spot on. Was hoping to see more of it.
Thank you and be well!
Charlene
Oh, my dearest Charlene, How right you are. Dr MacAfee’s advice was always brilliant and spot on. He felt things through the air, and his heart was wise and good. Sadly, he died several years ago, and I miss him every, single day. There are times I think, “Let me call Doc and ask him what he thinks about….,” and then I remind myself that he is gone. He touched thousands of suffering people’s lives, and he left the world a better place through them. In fact, my son is alive and healthy today because of Dr MacAfee. He came into Jeff’s life at just the right time, the eleventh hour. Thank you for asking about the good doctor and honoring him. I join you in thanking him for his advice and love. My love to you.
Paula