Wonderings in wandering

  I’ve seen miracles happen before my eyes, witnessed empty souls become human again. More than human, I’ve seen them struggle and fight against an invisible, yet all-consuming, foe. One who is dark, deceptive, relentless and cruel. I’ve watched them grow with a determination, grace and humility unknown to the masses. They have found new depths of consciousness and understanding worthy of any monk or mystic. Dark eyes once sunken now lifted and bright and skins pallor now blushes with hope. And, yes, I’ve seen them fall and flounder but never fail because once they have seen how it can be, it doesn’t leave them. We may be pulled back under, time and again by our demon of choice, but each time we resurface with precious lessons learned. Recovery is not just change, for change is too small a word. It is not merely putting down the bottle, ditching the pin or putting out smoke. Its not just quitting. It’s starting again. It is renewed vitality,...

  I want to start by wishing you all the best at this time of year. But, for now, I want to talk to the addicts amongst you. I don’t need to tell you this can be a really hard time of year. I’m coming up to 3 years sober and I know the temptations that rear their heads about now. I’m no expert but just wanted to share some thoughts. Firstly, harm reduction. This i s a time of huge and gross excess, so much booze consumed and left in chunky puddles on the pavement or down the toilet. A time of maybe buying that extra gram cos its Christmas or having to use a new dealer cos your usual guy is dry. Be aware of the amount you are drinking/using and what it is. If its booze, know the percentage and whether they’re pub doubles or home doubles. If its the substance of your choice, be sure what your taking is safe. Even if you’re gonna wake up with a hangover or a come down, make sure you wake up!Keep in mind why you’re drinking/using. Don’t over analyse at this point, but hav...

  Mrs Smith A pale face, dark eyes, an uneasy smile, Surrounded by a mass of tangly black curls, She sat in that circle Unengaged, aloof, disruptive, There for everyone else’s sake But her own. Trapped in a world by demons who Would let her see another way But kept her from it because It wouldn’t serve their obsessive needs. Within screaming distance but held behind thick glass, Visible but achingly unreachable. And now she appears, life Shining from her eyes. A purpose in her movement An energy no longer nervous or restrained. An arrogant addiction now replaced By an enthusiastic vulnerability. The tangle of curls now worn up To frame a new maturity. She sits in the circle for her own sake now Proving to everyone else that she is worthy, Meeting life bravely while hearts around her Now swell with inspiration.