We suffer alone in silence – both as addicts and as the family and friends of addicts.
There is a feeling of isolation from the rest of the world. There are struggles with shame and guilt, of unacceptance, failure, and the absolute waste of time as they go through the “cycles” trying to quit and struggling with relapse. It can be so overwhelming and discouraging that it makes our heads spin.
Being able to have someone you can trust to “help carry the load” of the struggle, sometimes just someone to listen quietly and give you an encouraging word or know they are going to add you in their prayers brings the hope to keep going. Knowing God does hear and is there to bring comfort through the long ordeal of the cycles we live through over and over can give us the strength to get through one more hour and one more day.
Knowing someone is caring enough to say a prayer for you, listen, and give an encouraging hug or word of kindness can make all the difference in the world to be able to make it through one more day!
I have felt so broken and discouraged, and even with a strong belief in God and knowing he’s there – there is still something so comforting when you know someone sees your struggle and takes the time to take 5 minutes for a prayer. This can make all the difference in the world for those of us struggling alone and in silence to be able to keep from spiraling down into a deep hole that feels dark and desolate.
So please consider being a beam of light to someone that, though you may not understand their struggles, hurt, and pain; however, you can take time to share God’s love through an acknowledgment of a smile and an “I care” enough to say a 5-minute prayer for them and their loved ones.
May you feel God’s love and comfort in your life as you ask for His love and protection for another of His children.
Blessings
