Hi there. I wanted to take a
moment to let those of you who have made the Thursday Night Women's Group possible know how it has affected my life.What's new since becoming a member of our group? Well, many
things. All week long, I look forward to our group's time together, which is well spent, openly discussing our various issues and giving each other feedback and support. Our group
counselor, Jane, keeps us on track and goes out of her way to help us with any problems we have or hurdles we may encounter. I am very grateful for her and for her no-nonsense approach to counseling.
I came to the Kent Center seeking help for my addictions to alcohol and drugs, and our Thursday group plays a big part in my recovery. At first, I had no idea of what to expect, but I hoped I
would find other women with whom I could identify and possibly make some new friends. It was evident the very first time I attended that these things would happen. I'm happy to report that my fellow group
members and I are becoming closer each week and have already exchanged telephone numbers. It was very easy and comfortable to become a part of this special group of women, as we all have a lot in common, and
even if our reasons for being here are different, our goal is the same: to learn from and help each other through listening, understanding, and support.
The world in which I abused mind-altering
substances is very different from the world I live in now. The "DARK ages" consisted of getting drunk and high and ultimately meant fighting with others under the influence well
into the night.
These days are over. I no longer wake up in jail or hung over, unable to recall my whereabouts and actions of the night before. My mind is clear, and life no longer seems daunting.
Our group has given me fuel for LIFE, as opposed to a path toward death. It nourishes my mind instead of numbing it and gives me the passion and desire
to start living. Sobriety is not easy; it is, in fact, quite difficult, but its rewards are great. It is a labor of love for life and for me to be one IN a million
, sober, and not one OF a million dead from this disease.
Will I be sober forever? I have no way to answer that question. Right now I feel like a
diamond in the rough, taking it day by day, working toward and learning how to break free from the chains of addiction and SHINE.
Our Thursday Night Women's Group is one more weapon in my arsenal
to help me beat this disease and stay clean. The feeling of dread of everyday life has lifted, and now I look forward to a bright and productive future. Thank you for this amazing gift that has given me
counsel, courage, hope, and a new way of looking at life, and very special new friends. The Happiest of Holidays to you and yours.
