We cannot live in a world that is not our own, in a world that is interpreted for us by others. An interpreted world is not a home. Part of the terror is to take back our own listening, to use our own voice, to see our own light.
Hildegard of Bingen (Germany 1098- September 17, 1179)
The disease of addiction can make life feel like a shadow existence. We can lose our way in the pain and chaos of this family systems illness.
Our world can feel like it is not our own, but something controlled and interpreted by others.
We feel we have lost our own voice in the din of the illness of substance use disorder.
Sound familiar?
Our lives were not intended to be lived at the mercy of others’ disease-driven choices. We need to have the courage to take the steps necessary to reestablish our own strength and self -worth even in the most challenging circumstances.
This crossroads is a powerful invitation to take back the power of our selfhood to “use our own voice, to see our own light” as written by Benedictine Abbess and composer Hildegard of Bingen more than 800 years ago.
We must re-affirm our own sense of peace, identity and decision-making.
Recalibrating our lives through prayer, meditation, guidance and rest will help that process happen.
So that we can hear our own voice again.
Through times of prayer, we receive guidance and the ability to heal our brokenness. Faith communities and 12 -Step fellowships can offer support in these spiritual practices.
The company of trusted family and friends can help renew our depleted spirits with compassion and laughter.
Support from counselors specializing in addiction issues can help us better navigate the day-to-day rough waters of a family addiction crisis.
We are not meant to live overshadowed by fallout from the all-consuming disease of addiction. We need to always seek the light of faith and hope for healing in our lives and the lives of our loved ones.
And a big part of that healing starts with knowing the strength and beauty of the light within ourselves.
How do you ensure your voice is heard in the midst of the family systems illness of addiction?
Please share here. We can all be inspired by our shared experience, strength and hope.
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