Several days ago, I was in the midst of a conversation with a gentleman when suddenly the subject of addiction came up.
Well, the truth is that he laid out a scenario in which the symptoms of addiction were so clear that a complete novice may have had suspicions… so I brought it up.
“Yeah… addiction,” he said, “Been there, done that!”
No doubt, this phrase has become very popular in the last few years, but it takes on new meaning for those of us who have spent any amount of time fighting this disease and its effects on our loved ones and relationships.
So I asked this acquaintance a few questions and it suddenly became clear that his statement wasn’t exactly accurate. You see, with addicts and addiction, its not a case of “Been there, done that,” but instead is more likely to be a situation of, “Been there, still there… and right in the middle of doing that!”
Addiction is progressive, and we must pick up the battle anew each morning.
************************************************************************************
When viewed in this light, “Been there, still doing that,” has another advantage for the purpose of sharing our experience, strength, and hope. Because we are in the fight, our message of recovery suddenly has impact… our words now have music!
This is your story… and also mine. It’s a story that thousands of hurting families long to hear!
“I know exactly how you feel. I’ve been where you are, and many days I’m still there… and here’s what’s working.”
The power that is contained in those simple words breathes hope and light and life into the world of someone who, only moments before, was full hopelessness and darkness and desperation.
“Yes,” we tell them. “This happened to me too! Yes, our family was just like yours! Yes, we were crumbling also! And yes, we’re doing something about it.”
The effects are unmistakable, and powerful. “Oh my goodness!” they realize. “If you can succeed, then maybe we can too!”
Powerful, indeed!
I encourage you to write down your story. Read it. Memorize it. Pray about it. And while you’re on your knees, ask that others be placed into your path who need to hear the good news of recovery, and that you will have the will to share your story with them.
The results will change their life… and likely your’s as well!
I look forward to speaking with you soon.
{ 0 comments… add one now }