I embarked on this special, close to my heart journey to find and support those human beings who need nothing more than someone who cares about them. I have traveled my own path of destruction and was fortunate enough to make it out alive. Whether your malady was chemicals or addiction of any kind, I would like to extend my hand to you now and share with you the language of the heart.

My path toward inner peace was long and arduous. It took me many years to realize that everything I had worked myself into a frenzy trying to pacify my longing for peace was from outside myself. Through many years of chasing my tail, I finally realized at forty years old that all the components of a happy and serene life lay within me. I am certainly a proponent of a spiritual component to my recovery. I will suffice to say that this is not mandatory but is extremely helpful as you travel along you path of self-realization.

The most important thing for someone afflicted to an addiction is the certainty that they can regain control of their thoughts and actions and translate that into purpose and happiness. This is by no means an easy task. First, gaining control over one's mind takes discipline and mental acuity the likes of which I had never seen before. Stopping our thoughts requires great discipline. Do not get discouraged during initial attempts. This process will take time. Our addictions did not materialize overnight and therefore will not vanish in the same amount of time.

You will learn that you are not as helpless as you once thought and will feel empowered by this new experience. Trust me, it is worth every bit of fear and uncertainty. There with be fits of anger and rage as well as discouragement. Do not give up. Take my tidbit of advice since I have suffered immense spiritual and emotional bankruptcy as well.

Catching and manipulating your thoughts is the necessary first step. Patience and long suffering are big players in this change. Another tactic in fighting the ghosts from the past is allowing yourself to get to the point (bottom) where you have to realize others people's opinions, though important, should not interfere with the game plan. You are not going through this process for anybody other than yourself. Allow my life to be guided by what other people said and did kept me in jackpots with myself and my environment.

With these weapons in place and a commitment to never return to where you came from, you are well on your way. I will address any questions you may have and other equipment you will need for your journey.

Best Regards,
Mike