If you’re reading this, you’re probably all too aware of this indelicate truth. There is no arguing that being addicted to anything is destined to provide some of life’s most intense challenges—for the struggler, for the spouse, AND for the family and friends that are trying to figure it all out.
Realizing that you or someone you love is caught in a cycle of behavior that they can’t seem to stop brings a massive flood of questions: How did this happen? Why me? Who’s fault is it? What now? Is there any hope of getting my old life back?
There are no simple answers to any of the questions that pummel our minds. Some days we feel a whisp of hopefulness about our future, but far more days we’re burdened down by a foreboding sense that whatever we do won’t be enough. The truth seems evident—our life has crashed in around us and there’s no going back.
And, you know, there’s a measure of truth in that statement. Life will never be exactly like it was before the addiction. If we are truly honest with ourselves, would we even want it to be? Something was missing. Something was broken. There was a reason for being so vulnerable to the diversion the compulsive behaviors created.
No, we can’t go back! And yet we have no idea how to move forward or where to even start. We need a guide that has traveled this road before.
Only those who have already been there can show us the most direct route and warn us of the dangerous spots. They are the ones that know how to encourage us when it gets rough and comfort us when we are exhausted. They know because they remember what they longed for, not so long ago, when they felt confused, lost or tired. They are reminded of their own journey every time they look into your eyes. They are convinced that you can do it, because they know that you’re not so much different than they are.
The only difference is that have already tasted what you cannot yet see and they know that it is far better than mere words can explain. Whether your traveling partner is God or man or both, let them in. We’re not meant to walk this road alone.
Their presence will be a benefit, not only to you, but to them, as well. Every little success you experience will bring them untold joy and remind them of the blessed miracle of a future without addiction.
And the best part? It’s a miracle you can share.
“If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!” Ecclesiastes 4:10 (NIV)
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