Life Changing.

In the past, my issues with trust and not truly believing that those I was seeking treatment from were genuinely vested in my well being, prevented me from experiencing everything that a good honest treatment program could provide. Those barriers held me back severely. I had been made to feel like a number or inconvenience as opposed to a good person in need of help.

 

The person who referred me knew me very well and was aware of the values I hold, which
include honesty, integrity, sincerity and a genuine compassion for others. She also understood the barriers that held me back. She said “You'll like her!”, referring to Tammy. That was good enough for me and with that, I went in for an intake, followed by treatment. Very right she was, by the way.

 

The things that struck me most while attending groups were how real the staff there was. There was a great balance between learning and exploring new ways of thinking, processing the past and present, as well as calling out BS and excuses, when the situation called for it. In that space we were able to tackle extremely difficult issues and do so in a forward, yet gentle manner. Real life experiences were shared among staff and clients alike, which created an atmosphere of trust, understanding, and
comradery. I personally have witnessed people working through some of the most challenging issues, which I honestly believe could not have happened in any other place. And despite the nature of some of our conversations I never left that place feeling worse off, than when I came in. I always felt better, even hopeful, which at times was lacking in my life.

After graduating from healing grace, I would attend groups occasionally as alumni. I always wanted to attend more, but sometimes life happens. Before and after graduation when I would attend groups, I would always mention that this was where I wanted to be, because this is where real work was being done. I would also mention that in order to be successful I needed to be in a recovery environment. I have attended many other groups and programs in the past and this is definitely not a checking a box type gig. I honestly felt that way, and that's why I spoke often on those two points.

I must have said those things honestly and often enough that Tammy took notice. Before long I was offered a position assisting in the office. Boom! That was my recovery environment. Now I definitely had a reason to be there. No excuses. Remember how I talked about excuses!! I kind of get the feeling that wasn't an accident. I felt so grateful that I got to be a part of some real work and witness some real change in people, myself included. While working as an office assistant I received a tremendous amount
of support both personally and professionally. I went on to become a certified peer recovery specialist and now I can give so much more to the people and place that gave so much to me.

The experience in its entirety has been a transformative one. I can see a light at the end of the tunnel that wasn't quite there before. It's a beautiful thing to see yourself becoming the person you were meant to be and that's how I'm seeing things nowadays. I can honestly say that the team there has always been truthful with me and anyone I've seen them interact with. Even when that truth may sting. It might not be the things you want to hear but it will always be the things you need to hear. Most
importantly they always empower people to find that truth for themselves. The truth I found there is that I am worthy of happiness, I don't have to struggle, and that I'm never alone. EVER! And for that, I am eternally grateful. I feel as though everyone should be so fortunate as to have these gifts that were given to me.