Recovery is a transition into a new way of life that takes tremendous courage and hard work. The transformation that can occur in just a short time is nothing short of remarkable. If you are currently working a program, then the above words probably resonate with you.Those who embark on a life-changing journey of recovery not only alter their life path, but they inspire others to do the same. It's vital to remember that recovery is a collaborative effort; simply put, nobody finds lasting recovery on their own.Each day, men and women around the globe come together to assist one another in the battle against the disease of addiction. Life is not without significant challenges; healing and progress are impossible without a robust, supportive network of individuals to rely on every day. Again, if you are working a program, then you understand that you owe much of your progress to the help and inspiration that you have received from others.One of the greatest gifts that working a program provides is being able to carry the message that recovery is possible, and that life gets better. Newcomers often struggle to believe that if they follow the guidance of others and don't pick up a drink or drug, then their life will change in unimaginable ways.Each person working a program of recovery has an opportunity to inspire others through continued action. Many people in the throes of addiction do not believe that recovery is possible, so it's up to us to provide them with examples that a productive and healthy life of recovery is possible.
In most cases, people are mentally, physically, and spiritually bankrupt when they check-in to treatment or start attending meetings. Prolonged drug and alcohol use take a heavy toll on one's mind, body, and spirit. So, when such people look around a room of recovery and see individuals with more time smiling and looking healthy and happy, it can be hard to believe. Yet, there it is, concrete evidence that people can and do recover.If newcomers keep coming back, they will gradually see transitions in their own life; things can change for the better in relatively short order. However, one has to do the work; addiction doesn't take holidays, so neither can recovery.After a few months of working a program, many people do not recognize the person they see in the mirror. Addiction recovery revitalizes people inside and out, and it's visible. Perhaps you have noticed a significant transformation, even in your first year of recovery.TODAY recently published a short article about a gentleman named Jason Wickline of Mount Hope, West Virginia. Nearly a half-decade ago, Jason's child was taken from him following an arrest for methamphetamine manufacturing. He was in the grips of active addiction and facing significant time in prison.Before Mr. Wickline was sentenced for his crimes, a judge offered him the opportunity of a lifetime—the chance to go into a long-term treatment program, according to the article. He accepted and spent 13 months adopting a program of recovery. When he returned to court, the judge ordered Wickline to 30 months probation, provided he stay clean and sober and find suitable housing."I thought I'd be going away for a long time," Wickline admitted. "I was looking at six to 30 years."Four months ago, Mr. Wickline posted a before and after pictures on Facebook to inspire hope in others.
Please contact NorthStar Transitions if you would like to learn more about our evidence-based therapies and full continuum of care. Our dedicated and highly trained staff can help you transition from active addiction to a healthy and happy life in recovery. We invite you to reach out to us today to learn more about the NorthStar difference. 303.558.6400
