I’ve alluded to the last year as being one of growth, and seldom is there growth without pain, I’m sorry to say. The skill of finding the lesson in the event is what, I believe, separates those that sink from those that swim, pull themselves up on to the shore, and then write a book about the experience. Watching one of my own as they struggled and continue to struggle with addiction, because really all you can do is watch no matter how much you want to help, has shown me that I’ve raised a swimmer. It doesn’t hurt to have a few people on the shore with a life raft cheering you on either, I suppose.
Keep swimming baby. I’m treading water right alongside you.
“One small crack does not mean that you are broken, it means that you were put to the test and you didn’t fall apart.” -Linda Poindexter
Magnolia Beginnings 
Sending hugs to you and yours. ♥
Thank you. Much appreciated!
Thank you for this. You are right. As a mother, friend, family member or stranger. All anyone can do is be there for the people striving to keep their heads afloat. I regret the times my mother must have felt so helpless when I was struggling with my addictions. When I got sober I had to watch helplessly as my little brother did the same. Thankfully, my little brother always looked up to me and the struggles that I overcame. My honesty with him, about the pains and sorrows that filled my life during my heavily using years, helped him to make a better life for himself. Him and I have both, except for a couple minor relapses, have been sober going on 6 years now. It warms my heart to hear him say thank you to me for being there and wish my mother was still alive so I could thank her, as my brother as thanked me.
Best of wishes to you. You’re efforts, patience and love will not go unnoticed by those you stand by during their hard time. You are the swim coach, the life raft and the cheers on the sideline all in one.
Well I like to think I’m a pretty tough cookie but you got me. What a beautiful thing for you to say. I’m sorry you can’t thank your own mother but you’ve just paid it forward, trust me. I’m sure she would be proud of you for taking the time to lift someone else up like you have done. Thank you.
Hugs to you and your swimmer – I’m cheering from the shore. ❤
Diana xo
We could use all the cheering we can get. Thank you!
It is SO hard when someone you love has this problem and you cannot do anything but support and hope. I do hope that you get through this as a family and become stronger for it.
Thinking of you.
Thank you. I’m hoping we are through the worst of it.
Bravo to you. I struggle with this too.