A mom wrote to me: We must break the stigma and shame in order to bring addiction out of the shadows. We need to shine light into our deepest wounds in order to heal. Silence is violence against the truth. Love is the answer.
My reflection: Addiction thrives on pain and chaos. I spent fourteen years trapped in a pattern of fear, defending my heart, trying to protect my family, keeping the secret, and terrified that my son would die. Only when I quit ruminating and began to open up in my support group did the healing begin.
Today’s Promise: The stigma and shame of addiction keep us locked in silence and secrets. Our minds work overtime as we create scenarios about what might happen because we hope that by anticipating the outcome we will be better prepared for the future. We must not allow ourselves to drown in this quicksand of worry. Our suffering loved ones are already trapped in darkness. Let us release ourselves from the grip of fear. Today, let us raise our voices in hope and love.
Libby, every word that you write rings true, always, and I thank you and send much gratitude for illuminating issues as you do. It does bring light! Blessings to you and yours this Christmas week ~
Dear Pamela, Thanks for your compassion and support. My love to you and your family for this Christmas week, and my sincere prayers for a healthy, happy, and safe 2021. xoxo
Every word speaks my hearts gigantic tears. “ Keeping the secret, and terrified my “daughter” will die.”
“They” are trapped in their own darkness. Opening up in my support groups- I am beyond grateful- for in a life experience I would never wish on anyone. There is so much shame in addiction so much quiet judgement so much excruciating pain for those closest. I think This is the only way. I’m at my wits end -to surrender to shining light on my deepest wounds. I pray for courage. Thank you with all my heart for being there.
Didn’t mean to give your response a minus. I meant a +!
Dear Pat, I agree with you that Laurie’s comment was true to the core. She speaks about the pain of addiction – the pain that we all have suffered. Thanks for reaching out. xo
I hope I didn’t say something wrong. I’m sorry
Dear dearest Laurie, Your comment is perfect and true. Please never worry about what you write here. We all value each other and our feelings. We have all suffered, and we understand. This is a place of safety and love. I join you in prayer for courage – for all of us. We are grateful you are here. Please keep coming back … and please keep sharing. My love to you.
Laurie, it was my mistake, I meant to hit the + as I could very well relate to your post.❤️