Tuesday, November 22, 2011

On Thanksgiving


On Thursday we all think about what we are to give thanks for in our life. This year I have decided to limit my thanks to my hero’s.

Here is my short list:

Mom, my bride is my hero. She is the one that suffered through the role as the mother of an addict. But she also stood beside me through all of the frustration and hell I dished on her because of my inability to control my sons using.

Alex is my hero. I never knew anything about addiction, he drug me through hell, but I know his hell was much, much worse than anything I experienced. He climbed out of that place. He did it because he wanted to do it and he did it alone because that is the only way it can be done.

My daughters and their husbands are my hero’s. They were there when I needed. They allowed me into their life when I needed someone that was a part of me but was able stand alone and strong.

Brooke and Tyler are my hero’s. They appeared at just the right time, there is no way they can understand that they saved my life; they are my grandchildren.

My family and friends are my hero’s. A family that did not give up on Alex or us. They offered a shoulder to cry on and a hand to hold when it was needed. Friends that were there when we needed them and knew we needed time and knew how to listen.

Kristy and her girls are my hero’s. They could see through the disease to the real person inside.

The people at my work are my hero’s. They knew it was not the normal me. They carried my load when I couldn’t. They never stopped believing.

Every single person that reads my blog and left a comment or had us in their thoughts are my hero’s. You people did more for me than I could ever re-pay or begin to describe. One day I hope to do as much for all of you as you have done for me.

All of the rehab counselors, medical personnel anyone setting in meetings are my hero’s. These are the people that made an unknown impact on Alex and all of us during this nightmare. There is no way to thank them all but I have a feeling they do what they do not for the thanks but for something inside of themselves that we may never understand.

12 comments:

Cassie said...

You are very blessed to have Alex still with you. I have to admit, I'm jealous but at the same time, happy for you. Keep on keeping on - that's all we can do anyway.

Syd said...

It will indeed be a blessed Thanksgiving for you. I know that there is much to be thankful for.

Bar L. said...

You and Mom are two of my hero's, and so is Alex.

This was wonderful list. Grandchildren are the icing on the cake of parenting! I hope to have a few of my own someday.

Wishing you and your family a very HAPPY Thanksgiving!

(please never stop commenting on my blog even when I am a baby and get hurt. I get over the hurt and grow an bit more.)

Domartello said...

Congratulations on posting ... You have big heart and full of love, you have people you love around .... Life is made of happy moments and also moments of sadness ... At this time we increased our soul, and love of neighbor is the right way ... A hug here in Brazil.
Carlos.

Bristolvol said...

I am thankful for your posts. They have taught me a lot. I am happy that your son is working on his recovery. What more could you ask for.

Anonymous said...

Happy Thanksgiving Ron! So sweet that you named your wife first.
I, for one, am thankful you are here.

Kimberly Muench said...

Hi Ron:I have enjoyed reading your posts and have commented on occasion anonymously. I have a 24 year old son who is a recovering alcoholic. I can very much relate to much of what you write about. I recently published a book and am in the process of learning how to blog because I loved writing our family's story so much and I want to continue a dialogue with people about having a child with addiction issues, marriage, and parenting. I would love for you to take a look. Keep doing what you're doing...it is very needed. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

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

"He climbed out of that place. He did it because he wanted to do it and he did it alone because that is the only way it can be done." That is such a profound quote, Ron. Yes, Alex did it. Through the process, you also blessed so many of us with your wisdom and experience. I can only continue to pray that my son will do this on his own. It's been a long road, and there's a lot of it still ahead. Thank you for your support. It means a lot to me.

Cathy Taughinbaugh said...

Hi Ron,

I love your list. The memories of our experience and the people involved comes up this time of year for all of us, I would imagine. I know I think about the people that helped our family as well. My friends, I have to say, supported me, in ways that I wouldn't have expected. I know many have felt the stigma from friends and family, but I am grateful that our family received support. Thanks for an inspiring post!

Susie C said...

I have two sons who have been in an addictive life for 17 years. My oldest is now in a great program. My youngest is still out in the streets trying to find his way I suppose. I ask for prayers that my youngest son will finally hear God's calling and get into a program also.

south dakota patent lawyer said...

Such a sweet thing. It is the true essence of thanksgiving.

Toyin O. said...

What a sweet thanksgivng post, you are a hero for having such a great heart.