Friday, December 11, 2009

Validation

I did my presentation last night. I feel it went well but it is hard to tell and be objective if you are the one up speaking. I spoke on the 7 truths but I did not want it to sound like I was just reading. I didn't count but i think there were probably 40 or so people in attendance. There were some very new to addiction and the leaders/sponsors of the group had a son that was over 20 years clean and sober. Everyone participated in the talk.

I decided to do this talk in the form of a validation process. I presented a truth like, Parents Are Enablers, and then spoke of my learning about this truth from my experiences and ask people in the audience to share their experiences first hand of enabling. Participation was overwhelming and at times emotional with laughter and sadness. In this way they validated to me my belief that parents are enablers but also they validated to themselves and others in the audience that this truth is valid in dealing with addicts. This process of validation exceeded my expectations of the group. Maybe it was just my hopefulness but I think some people experienced one or two "ah-ha" moments, what more could I ask for of the group.

I hope I get other opportunities to share this again.

11 comments:

Debby of Oxycontin and Opiate Addiction: A Mother's Story said...

I thought of you, last night. Even if you reached just ONE parent, you have done a wonderful thing. My guess is that you reached many people. I pray that you will be that ripple in your community that will touch so many parents. The support I receive via my blog has been so healing. In person, I would bet that you did a fantastic job.
I also hope the Alex will continue to blog, because he seems to have your gift. We all need "aha" moments. I appreciate hearing BOTH sides of the story of addiction-- from the addict and from those who love the addict. I hope you do this again...and again.
Blessings,
Debby

The neverending battle of child's opiate addiction said...

It sounds like your speech went over fantastically! Thank you for getting out there and sharing your experiences with others, it not only helps them but I am sure you in the process. You often have made a difference in my journey and I thank you for that also. Have a great day!

Lou said...

AlAnon works on this principal of validation. Hearing your "own" story from so many different people is the first step in coming out and acknowledging the elephant in the room.
Anytime people can know they are not alone, a service has been done for all. Good on ya' Dad!

Unknown said...

I am so glad that it was a positive experience for you. I know you shined!

Namaste

Bar L. said...

YAY FOR YOU! I hope many more opportunities come your way. I am glad you were able to shed some light to other parents, your input invaluable to me.

Anonymous :) said...

It is such a blessing when you're living through this as a parent to meet other families living through the same nightmare. There's so much to be learned. Sounds like that group found themselves a good speaker.

Annette said...

I am so happy that it went well. I am sure you made quite an impression and just by providing understanding to other parents you brought a lot of comfort.

Unknown said...

good job ron!!

Anonymous said...

I've been enjoying reading your blog. I've just started a blog at recoveryhelpdesk.wordpress.com and I'd like to get some feedback on my first post.

Thanks! Tom

Athena said...

Bravo! I KNOW you did well!

"Everyone participated in the talk..." You have a gift.

Syd said...

I'm really glad that you did this. I hope that you get to do it again.