Northwoods Recovery

Learning otherwise would come as no surprise, but I really hope Northwoods residents aren’t given the impression I’m on a mission to save the world.

Since I was barely able to save myself — and only with critical help from a small army of friends and behavioral health specialists — from addiction, I rightly feel totally unqualified to be any kind of savior. Even years into recovery, keeping my own head above water is still a constant challenge.

Even so, from day one I've held fast to my own belief there is a significant purpose to be found in this recovery.

One of it’s most profound gifts, sobriety after long addiction grants a unique type of clarity, of heightened awareness; and how that awareness is deployed in daily living can identify the positive purpose found in every individual recovery.

I have only the vaguest inkling of my recovery’s particular purpose, but believe it relates to sharing empowerment with those who express a genuine hunger for regaining the mental and emotional equilibrium lost in addiction. From my own experience I know that cannot be effected without a great deal of support. Admitting to addiction and helplessness when facing up to it is a most humbling proposition. 

In telling my story, making public my experiences traveling from addiction to recovery and beyond, my fervent wish is for those struggling with similar issues to see hope there for themselves, and act on it. 

The impetus for change can only come from the addict himself. I don’t see myself saving anyone. I can only help guide those seeking guidance.

Personal experience taught me this ultimate truth about addiction: salvation comes only from within, as one’s inner voice finally breaks through and prevails over addiction’s clamor.

When the quietude of reason overcomes and transcends the shouting from our demons, we begin to see the possibilities inherit in pursuing real purpose; redirecting a life previously devoted to nothing but staying stupefied abusing mind-altering substances.

Every individual recovery has a connection to higher purpose, and acceptance of this principle lends special intent to lives that had lost all meaning in the insanity of addiction. Once our way is recovered, there’s no end of pathways open for us to follow. 

Choose your path and go!

All paths lead to the same place; a destination reached only after a lifetime of purpose-driven endeavor, and leave us with no doubt that we do recover.

Do you think you may have a problem with alcohol? Alcoholics Anonymous can help. Call our Hotline at (715)360-4637 or visit our website at www.northwoodsaa.org for questions or to find a meeting in your area.