Some Final Thoughts About A Monster
Part 5, Toward A Better Understanding Of Substance Abuse
On March 15, John Jones will be at the church I pastor to give a concert. He will also share his story of how his faith in Jesus Christ has given him strength to overcome the grip of alcohol addiction. I have known John for several years. As far as I can tell he has been faithful to his Christian commitment, music ministry, work, and family. And I think he would be the first to tell you that, although he is a man of strong dependence upon God, his battle with addiction is still an ongoing process.
Others I know, facing alcohol and drug dependencies, do not have lives that lend themselves to such a story of inspiration and victory. Recently I attended the funeral of a man who truly sacrificed his life to a bottle. All through the years he left a trail of unrealized potential and broken people. He lay there in the casket leaving very little good to be said. I sat in the audience thinking I was glad that I was not the stumbling preacher who stood before us, pitifully trying to bring closure for those this man left behind.
As I finish this series, at this time, in no particular order I will pass along some personal thoughts:
The Big Guy
All addictions are not equal. I have addictions, such as caffeine, sugar, and blogging. They have varying and sometimes adverse effects upon my life; they are annoyances, and I’ll likely not die from any of these. Drug and alcohol abuse, if allowed, will surely kill you. It is a monster, no matter how cute it trappings may seem.
Love Hurts
To love someone requires that you open your heart to that person. There is always the possibility to get burned, and the probability it will periodically happen along the way. The reward is to truly connect with someone, and by loving him to actually make a transformational difference in his life. I think the risk is worth it. If you know someone battling with addiction, then the best thing you can give him is your unconditional love, albeit always tempered with wisdom.
Not A Solo Flight
If you have an alcohol or drug addiction, then you need help. Every now and then I will come across someone who purports to have overcome a deadly addiction with no help from others. Invariably, a few moments of conversation will reveal otherwise. This individual may not use the proper vocabulary to describe his journey to sobriety, but likely it involves friends, faith, family, dedicated organizations like AA and Alanon, and resources such as books, pamphlets, videos. History and human nature make it clear you cannot win this battle on your own.
I Am A Rock?
There is liberation in letting your guard down, and being vulnerable. Where did you get this idea that you are a rock, anyhow? Surely you need to be careful with whom you open up and seek help. Some will use and abuse you, and ultimately make you worse. But many have earned the right, and will find joy in helping you to become whole and strong in your life. So, swallow your pride and get help.
To This One, It Means All The Difference In The World
You cannot save everyone. But you can save some. Some will use and abuse you, lie to you, and ultimately travel the road to utter destruction. And it will break your heart to watch it happen. Others, though, will be saved. The journey will be inexact, and along the way you will get dirty. But it will be worth it.
