Parents of loved ones in addiction often live in fear of death. It’s a real state of mental distress as your child falls deeper into this traumatizing disorder.
Some parents choose to live solely in the hope of recovery. Believing it will be a positive and easier approach. They never consider their child dying. For them, it may be the best way.
Some people, like me, come to terms that addiction can lead to death. Period. Accepting that truth is how I found peace. I better adjusted my thoughts and actions in the impossible position I found myself navigating.
As loved ones choose to enter sobriety, receiving the help necessary to detox and find a base to begin their unique recovery journey, the possibility of relapse remains.
As they reach one milestone after another, the possibility of relapse remains.
After years pass, we encourage and cheer them on, while always knowing the threat of relapse. We live in hope for a lifetime of recovery, living, and success! It is the same hope every parent enjoys.
However, addiction will affect our day-to-day positivity- how can it not?
There will be tears and moments of hopelessness. We will swim in the currents of emotional distress, physical reaction, hopeful elation, joyous occasions, distant relations, and so much more.
As we make our way through our recovery, we will live above the seas of torment. We will come to peace and accept things we cannot control or change, have the courage to change the things we can, and gain wisdom to know the difference. (The Serenity Prayer) These won’t be repetitious words on some plaque or poster on the wall; they will become the truth we live by, our truth to survive the pain of another’s addiction.
Accepting the final consequence of substance use can be death is not giving up or casting hope aside. It is being authentic with the reality of addiction. We all pray and hope for a recovery that lasts a lifetime- we believe it is always possible!
The views and opinions expressed by Kingdom Winds Collective Members, authors, and contributors are their own and do not represent the views of Kingdom Winds LLC.
About the Author
Lisa Wenninger is a speaker, writer, podcaster, and Kingdom Winds Collective member. She currently manages a local church with a family of believers she loves. Lisa enjoys volunteering as a Stephen Minister and being able to walk alongside others in their time of need. She is an animal lover (former assistant to the director at this fantastic location), a beach enthusiast, and enjoys hiking, museums, and eating out. Fun fact - she loves to sing but says that you don’t want to hear her do it.
