There is a singular moment in everyone’s life that defines their existence and determines their legacy. For me, this moment came on Wednesday, July 13, 2005—the day I arrive at South Coast Counseling. It was then and there that I finally surrendered in my battle with alcoholism and drug addiction. Prior to this fateful day, I had struggled with substance abuse for more than twenty years. I had experienced unemployment, homelessness, and incarceration as a result of my disease. I hated my life and what I had become but as hard as I tried I couldn’t stop abusing chemicals. I was at a crossroads—I could either continue using drugs and alcohol, which promised more anguish and despair or I could try a different approach to life that involved a program of recovery—I chose recovery, I chose South Coast Counseling.
I was no stranger to recovery. I had been to several other substance abuse treatment programs previously, but none of them proved very effective. I didn’t expect South Coast Counseling to be much different. I was wrong. When I walked in the door, there was a sense of familiarity and a feeling of serenity that I can’t explain. I had never been there before, but it I felt as though I was meant to be. I’m not sure if it was director, Jack Motley’s guidance and encouragement, the great food, the safe and sober environment, the supportive alumni, or the emphasizes on empowerment and fulltime employment that did it for me, but something clicked and my life was forever changed. It’s been nearly four years since I used any mind-altering chemical. What a miracle! I believe I was led to South Coast Counseling by a power greater than myself. If not for the mercy of this divine force, I would have certainly continued the insanity that had caused me misery and devastation. I am eternally grateful to South Coast Counseling. They gave me back my life.
